Valerian
About Valerian
Used as a sleep aid since ancient Greece and Rome - Galen prescribed it for insomnia in the 2nd century. Clinical studies show it improves sleep quality without the grogginess associated with prescription sleep aids. It contains valerenic acid, which increases GABA in the brain. Cats are attracted to it the same way they are to catnip. It was used as a perfume in the 16th century. The root is the medicinal part - it smells strongly of old socks. It takes 2-4 weeks of daily use to reach full effectiveness. It is one of the most popular herbal sleep aids in Europe. Over 250 species exist.
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