Valerian Root cut (Valeriana officinalis)

Valerian smells so strongly that the Greek physician Dioscorides called it phu, a name that sounds like what people say when they open the jar.

Origin & Traditional Use

Valeriana officinalis is a tall European perennial with pale pink flower heads and a pungent root. The root was traditionally used as a calming tea for sleep, and in the Middle Ages it was valued enough to be called all-heal.

Uses by Tradition

Witchcraft & Folk Magick

• Peace in the house: a small bag of the root hung or placed in a room is said to quiet arguments, especially between partners.
• Protection: hung in the home or added to protective sachets.
• Love: worn or carried in love sachets, in older European folklore said to draw affection.

Hoodoo & Rootwork

• Vandal root: under this name, valerian is used in work to drive away enemies or unwanted people.
• Its unpleasant smell suits it to separation and enemy work rather than sweet blends.

A Simple Working

• Cut a small square of blue or white cloth.
• Place a teaspoon of valerian root and a tablespoon of lavender at its centre.
• Hold it and name the peace you want in the house.
• Tie it closed with white thread.
• Place it under the cushion of the seat where arguments usually start.
• Replace it each month.

Pairs Well With

• Lavender, to soften the smell and add peace.
• Skullcap, another herb for a calm household.
• Chamomile, for peace and sleep sachets.
• A blue chime candle, for peace work.

Lore & History

In medieval England the plant was known as setwall. A later story claims the Pied Piper of Hamelin carried valerian to draw the rats, since rats are drawn to its smell, though that detail is not part of the original tale.

What You Receive

Cut dried valerian root, available in 1 oz, 2 oz and 1 lb.