Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as Valarian, is a flowering plant that grows in Europe, Asia and North America. Valarian has been used traditionally for centuries to treat insomnia and nervousness. It has a mild sedative effect which can reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. During World War II, it was used in England to relieve the stress of air raids and administered via tincture to shell-shocked soldiers suffering from the psychological effects of fighting on the front lines.
Valerian can smell “off”. This is normal as it has a very characteristic pungent smell.