50g of Cut Valerian packaged in our plant-based cellulose, compostable bags.
Cut valerian refers to the dried, chopped root of Valeriana officinalis, a plant long used in herbal medicine—especially for sleep and nervous tension.
Benefits of cut valerian
Sleep support
- Valerian is best known as a natural sleep aid. It may:
- Help you fall asleep more easily
- Improve overall sleep quality
- Reduce night-time restlessness
- It doesn’t act like a sedative; instead, it gently encourages relaxation.
Calms the nervous system
Valerian is traditionally used to:
- Reduce anxiety and nervous tension
- Ease stress-related symptoms
- Help with mild panic or agitation
Muscle relaxation
Its relaxing effect on the nervous system can also:
- Ease muscle tension
- Help with tension headaches
- Reduce stress-related aches
Menstrual and menopausal support
Historically used to:
- Ease menstrual cramps
- Help with nervous symptoms linked to menopause (such as restlessness or poor sleep)
Mild heart-soothing effects
By calming the nervous system, valerian may:
- Reduce stress-related palpitations
- Support relaxation during periods of emotional strain
Common uses of cut valerian
Herbal tea (infusion or decoction)
- This is the most traditional use.
- Use ½–1 teaspoon of cut root per cup
- Steep for 10–15 minutes (or gently simmer for a stronger decoction)
- Best taken in the evening
- Note: the smell is… distinctive. Think “old socks in a woodland”. Effective, but not glamorous.
Capsules or tinctures
- Cut root is often used to make tinctures
- Capsules avoid the taste and smell
- These are more consistent in strength than tea
Baths (less common)
- A strong valerian infusion can be added to bathwater
- Traditionally used for deep relaxation
Practical tips
- Effects often build up over several days rather than working instantly
- Best taken 30–60 minutes before bed
- Mixing with calming herbs (chamomile, lemon balm, hops) can improve flavour and effect
You might also like
