The volatile oil of Valerian produces a smell that cats love. On humans, it has a calming and relaxing action. It is frequently taken for nervous tension, anxiety and insomnia. It is also useful or reducing high blood pressure, particularly if nervous tension is the cause. It will help reduce muscle tension that may cause cramp.
Valerian is used for muscle and joint pain, menstrual cramps and symptoms associated with menopause. Some people use Valerian for depression, epilepsy, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Take no more than three times daily as when taken in large amounts it may have a stimulating rather than relaxing effect. I brewed this for five minutes at 100oC.
It goes without saying that if you're pregnant (or are under the doc for anything) caution should be exercised with herbal decoctions.
