(Valeriana officinalis) Tranquilizing properties, eases sleep disturbances, indigestion and tension, promotes restful sleep. Most agree that Valerian has a strong 'unpleasant' aroma and it is used sparingly in blends.
The viscosity (consistency) of some oils are just naturally thicker while most are thinner and watery-like. For example, citrus oils are very thin but root oils are thicker. From a chemistry perspective, the lighter/smaller molecules (such as those that make up citrus oils) are thinner, and heavier/larger molecules (such as those that make up root oils) are thicker.
Valerian is extremely viscous, and therefore more difficult to use. With time it may solidify. Gently warming the oil in the hands before use may help (takes patience!), or you may need to warm in a water bath.
Research Valerian affects the same nerve receptors as benzodiazepines such as Valium. Some alternative MDs have reported using Valerian to help ensure a safe and painless transition from Xanax. Roberta Wilson wrote: "Valerian can relax the parasympathetic nervous system, thereby counteracting the stressful effects of the fight-or-fight response." "In mice, valerian oil inhalation reduced stress-induced plasma corticosterone levels, (Hosoi et al 2001), presumably because it is anxiolytic." - Tisserand "Kormori et al 2006 reported that valerian oil vapor inhalation increased natural sleep duration in rats by 18%." - Tisserand "Of the essential oils studied, valerian seems to possess the strongest sedative activity, by any route of administration." - Tisserand
Application Suggestions (See Essential Oil Usage for more information and a Dilution Chart.) Topical: Dilute with a carrier oil, unscented lotion or unscented cream and apply on area of concern or as desired. Consider using a roll-on applicator for ease of application of prediluted oil.
Inhalation: Diffuse or use a personal Nasal Inhaler (may be too thick to diffuse as a single oil in a glass nebulizing diffuser).
PLEASE NOTE: Many feel that Valerian has a very strong, "unpleasant" aroma. It is typically used as a small component of a blend.
Suggested Inhaler Blend 4 drops May Chang 3 drops Neroli 1 drop Valerian Internal: Valerian is suitable for internal use within safe parameters if such use is deemed appropriate. We feel that internal use is rarely *needed* and should only be used with respect for how concentrated the oils are. HEO does not advocate internal use of essential oils without appropriate knowledge and understanding of how to administer, for what purpose, how much, which essential oils, safety concerns and so on. In our experience, essential oils are generally more effective used topically with proper dilution or inhaled. Kurt Schnaubelt Ph.D. notes that "French aromatherapy literature contains many references to using oils internally." He goes on to note that "generally 1 drop is always enough when ingesting essential oils." A potential toxicity hazard could occur when untrained people use essential oils orally and ingest too much. Keep in mind that while medical doctors or health care practitioners may prescribe essential oils for internal use, they are trained and experienced in the safe application of essential oils. It is not a matter of using "French aromatherapy" or "British" methods, it's a matter of experience and appropriate application. Click here for information about internal usage.
4. I made up two roller bottles with 1/2 tsp almond oil, 1/2 tsp vodka, (help the almond oil to emulsify - not so oily). To this I added 4 drops of Solace. I meant for 3, but oops, you know how that can happen. I felt so good. I was wound down in the best possible way. I was very alert, but very calm. When my Mom tried her bottle on her wrists and inner elbows, she felt the same response. She deals with migraine and tension headaches, and I struggle with fibromyalgia. Tonight I mixed equal amounts (3 drops each) of Solace and Valerian in my diffuser. The pain is now 80% less than the weather-related pain I've dealt with in the last 5 days. I've been diagnosed with degenerative joint disease (DJD, that is, osteo arthritis.) Normally, I can't even sit up at 11 pm. With fibromyalgia, I've found it useful to use essntial oils that calm the central nervous system (CNS.) May the good Lord guide you to the oils that work best for you. I'm praying for you if you're reading this! - Becca
5. My son who has Down syndrome is 12 and is displaying aggressive behavior that seems to have become more exaggerated and brought on more by the onset of puberty. I've been using Adagio at nights and mornings, along with Valerian at night too. Valerian has a powerful, not so pleasant smell, so we sock his feet right away or he just tucks them under his covers quickly. I deal with anxiety myself and originally bought Valerian to try on me. I found I don't mind the smell much anymore because of the calming sensation it brings on. It doesn't knock me out, but relaxes me so I can sleep, and my number one love of it is that it shuts my brain up. I can relax, without my brain still going 100 mph. With my son, who is non-verbal, I don't know what feelings he gets out of it, but he sleeps at night. He's also been calmer. I also use Palo Santo. It's very calming effect on me is craved. It doesn't have the same type of calming effect that I find Valerian does, but a different, pleasant one. I don't use it to help with sleep, but rather to calm myself or my son in the moment when anxiety may be running high (like shopping). My daughter tells me it stinks. I've come to love the smell because of the calm I associate with it. Just a few drops in our hands, breathing it in, and my son and I are relaxing better. :) - Lysh 6. Valerian has a very strong aroma and taste. Most people say it smells like stinky gym socks, and while it has amazing relaxing properties, it actually stimulates a few people I know. I love Valerian and find nothing comes close to its deep, musky aroma and profound relaxing properties. I personally use Valerian to settle restless legs, to resolve spasmodic coughs (especially at night!) and overall, to just help me relax. On a side note, my cat loves it! - Rosemary 7. I love Valerian. I use it to sleep and for nerve damage from a bad back fusion. I deal with a lot of pain. I apply it from where my hairline starts following a path all the way to my tailbone. - Jennifer
