Valerian

Also known as All Heal, Set All, Common Valerian, Garden Heliotrope, Cut Finger, Fragrant Valerian, Cat's Valerian and St. George's Herb.

From the family Caprifoliaceae.

This is a native of Europe and West Asia and is now naturalized in North America. The name derives from the Latin valere meaning 'to be in health', an allusion to its powerful medicinal qualities. Nordic, Persian and Chinese herbalists used the root, and it was sure to be found in the medicine bag of Canadian Indian warriors as a wound antiseptic. The Greek physician Galen used it for epilepsy in children and adults. Fresh root smells like ancient leather, but when dried, it is nearer to stale perspiration. And it is still used to add a musky tone to perfumes. Cats and rats are attracted to the smell, and The Pied Piper of Hamlin is said to have carried the roots to help him rid the city of rats. It is also placed in hives to keep bees close to their nests, and rubbed on earthworms to attract trout to the bait. It was used during the First and Second World Wars for treating shell shock and nervous stress.

Dig up root in late autumn of the second and third years. Wash and remove the pale fibrous roots, leaving the edible rhizome. To dry this, cut into manageable slices.

Add root to soups, stuffings and stews.

Infuse root and spray on the ground to attract worms. Add mineral rich leaves to compost. Use the root in rat traps. Plant near vegetables to boost their growth by stimulating phosphorus and earthworm activity. Use decoction as a facial wash, for a soothing bath, and in lotions for acne or skin rashes.