Valerian

Product Details

Botanical name

Valeriana officinalis

Extraction method / Source

Steam distilled / rhizomes

Aroma

Warm, earthy, tenacious, musky, woody

Note classification

Base

Odor Intensity

5

Key constituents

Maaliol: > 45% , 3-Methylvaleric Acid: > 32%

Plant description

Botanical family: Caprifoliaceae

Valerian is a perennial herb which is native to Asia. It grows to nearly 5 feet in height and produces green dissected leaves and pink or white flowers with a rich, sweet aroma.

Regions of Production

France

Growing Practices

Cultivated without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides.

History / Fun Facts

Properties

Antibacterial, antispasmodic, anti-anxiety, digestive aid, sedative. (Battaglia, 2003)

Please refer to the Glossary for terms which may be new to you.

Uses / Benefits

Recommended for insomnia, depression, anxiety, nervous tension and indigestion, bruxism (teeth grinding), migraine headaches. Helps alleviate neuralgias, reduces restless legs and promotes restful sleep. Stimulates menstrual flow. Popular as a musky base for natural perfume making. (Althea Press, 2015, Battaglia, 2003, Worwood, 1991)

Fragrant influences

Calming, reduces anxiety, helps balance the emotions. (Battaglia, 2003)

Modes of Administration

Topical: massage, compress

Inhalation: direct inhalation, diffuser, oil vaporizer, aromatherapy inhaler

Blends well with

Cedarwood, Lavender, Mandarin, Patchouli, Petitgrain, Pine, Rosemary

Safety

Non-toxic, non-irritating, possibly sensitizing. Avoid during pregnancy. Avoid using Valerian before driving, operating machinery, or activities which require concentration. Do not use for children under 6 years of age.

Notice

This information is for educational purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease. Although we strive to provide information which is accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

Precautions

Pure essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. Do not use them undiluted, or in the eyes or mucus membranes. If applying an essential oil to the skin, always dilute it with a proper carrier oil and test on a small patch of skin before applying to a large area. Do not take them internally except under the direction of a qualified professional trained in Aromatherapy. Always familiarize yourself with the safety, contraindications and proper preparation of each essential oil before use. Note that when using essential oils for children and the elderly, very low concentrations should be used. Keep all essential oils away from children and pets.

References

Althea Press, Essential Oils: Natural Remedies, 2015. Althea Press, Berkeley, CA.

Battaglia, Salvatore, The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, Second Edition, 2003. The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Brisbane, Australia

International Fragrance Research Association, http://www.ifraorg.org/en-us/standards (January 5, 2016)

United States Food and Drug Administration, HHS, 182.1 Substances That Are Generally Recognized as Safe, 182.20 Essential oils, Oleoresins (solvent-free), and natural extractives (including distillates), http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/CFR-2012-title21-vol3-sec182 (January 28, 2016).

Worwood, Valerie Ann, The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy, 1991. New World Library, Novato, CA.

TIMELESS Essential Oils guarantees the purity and quality of all our therapeutic oils. The current Certificate of Analysis is available upon request. All essential oils are best stored in an airtight container away from heat and light.