Organic valerian root herbal tea, 30 g

Discover Herberry's organic valerian root herbal tea: dried roots in a 30 g resealable kraft bag. Certified organic farming.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a tall perennial plant common in moist meadows and along riverbanks throughout Europe. Its pink corymb flowers and especially its roots—which have a characteristic, earthy, musky, and very persistent odor—make it one of the most recognizable medicinal plants in Europe. Used since ancient times, it is one of the best-documented plants in traditional herbal medicine.

Botanical overview

Valeriana officinalis is a perennial plant of the Valerianaceae family that can reach 1 to 1.5 meters in height. Its upright stems bear pinnate leaves and terminate in umbels of small, highly fragrant pink-to-white flowers. It blooms from June to August. It is the root, a creeping rhizome, that is used in herbalism. When dried, it emits a strong, highly characteristic musky scent due to the release of valeric acid and other sulfur compounds.

The roots contain valerenic acids and valepotriates (iridoids), flavonoids (linarin, hesperidin), essential oils (borneol, camphor), alkaloids (actinidine, valerine), and amino acids (GABA, glutamine). Valerenic acids are the plant's most studied compounds.

Aromatic and flavor profile

Valerian root infusion produces a light brown to amber liquor. Its aroma is very characteristic and powerful: earthy, musky, and slightly sweet-fermented; an immediately recognizable scent that can be surprising at first. On the palate, the flavor is bitter and slightly acrid. This herbal tea has a very assertive organoleptic profile; adding honey or preparing it in combination with lemon balm or lavender can improve the taste.

How to prepare the infusion

• Quantity: 1 teaspoon of cut dried root (about 1 to 2 g) per cup
• Water: Lukewarm to simmering; an 8-hour cold maceration in fresh water better preserves the valepotriates
• Infusion: 10 to 15 minutes covered (simmering water) or cold maceration overnight
• Filter thoroughly and enjoy lukewarm
• Frequency: 1 cup per day, as a 2 to 4-week course

Composition

Precautions for use

• Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Not recommended for children under 12 years of age
• Not recommended before driving or operating heavy machinery (drowsiness possible)
• Do not combine with benzodiazepines, sleeping pills, or other sedative plants without medical advice
• If currently on medication, consult a doctor or pharmacist before use
• Do not use continuously for more than 4 to 6 weeks without medical advice
• Do not exceed recommended usage amounts
• Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet

FAQ

Is Herberry's organic valerian certified?

Yes, these valerian roots are certified organic, with no pesticides or synthetic chemical inputs.

Why is the smell of dried valerian so strong?

In its fresh state, valerian has a discreet scent. During drying and storage, valepotriates break down into isovalerate and other compounds, including valeric acid, which is responsible for the musky, persistent odor. This is a normal transformation that does not affect the quality of the product.

Why are cats attracted to valerian?

Actinidine, an alkaloid found in valerian, has an effect on cats similar to the nepetalactone in catnip (Nepeta cataria). It stimulates their olfactory receptors and triggers a characteristic behavioral reaction (rubbing, rolling). Dogs are also sometimes attracted to its scent.

How should I store my bag of valerian?

Keep away from direct light, heat, and moisture. The scent of valerian is very persistent and can permeate its surroundings; store it in an airtight container or in the tightly closed resealable bag.

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