Valerian Root Extract Powder

Valerian Root Extract Powder is made from the roots of Valeriana officinalis, prepared in a concentrated 4:1 ratio as a fine, aromatic powder with no added fillers or artificial ingredients. Mix it into a warm drink, encapsulate it for convenient portions, or take it directly in measured servings. It is offered in 5g, 10g, 20g, 30g, 50g and 100g sizes.

At a glance

• Roots of Valeriana officinalis in a concentrated 4:1 ratio
• Fine, aromatic powder with no added fillers or artificial ingredients
• Carries valerenic acids, valepotriates and volatile oils
• Mix into a warm drink, encapsulate, or take in measured servings
• Onset gradual, usually within the hour; an evening herb
• Offered in 5g, 10g, 20g, 30g, 50g and 100g sizes

The herb. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a tall perennial native to Europe and western Asia and placed botanically in the honeysuckle family, Caprifoliaceae. The root has been dug, dried and brewed since Greek and Roman times. As it dries it develops the famous pungent, sock-like odor from isovaleric acid. The root carries valerenic acid and related sesquiterpenes, valepotriates and an essential oil rich in bornyl acetate.

Active content. This is a 4:1 concentrate, meaning four parts of dried root went into one part of finished powder, carrying the root's natural balance of valerenic acids, valepotriates and volatile oils. We do not print a standardized valerenic acid percentage. Valerenic acid is the constituent most associated with valerian's heavy, settling character.

Dosage, first time. Start with a small measured amount stirred into a warm drink or taken in a capsule, in the evening, and see how you respond over a night or two before using more. Onset is gradual, usually within the hour.

Regular use. Regular users take one consistent measured serving in the evening. Keep the serving steady; taking it earlier reduces morning grogginess. For a pre-measured option, see our Valerian Root Extract Capsules 30ct.

What to expect. Users describe a heavy, melty relaxation, loosened shoulders and an easier drift into rest. It suits the wind-down hour. It is not a daytime product, not an uplifting botanical, and the smell is strong, which is why most people capsule it.

Side effects. The common ones are morning grogginess, headache, vivid dreams and stomach upset, and a minority of people feel restless rather than relaxed. All are dose-related; reduce the serving, take it earlier, or stop if they persist.

Interactions and cautions. Valerian adds to the effects of alcohol, sedative medications, benzodiazepines and other relaxing botanicals, so do not combine them, and do not drive or operate machinery after taking it. Not for use if pregnant or nursing. Consult a healthcare professional before use if you take any medication.

Ingredients and storage. Valerian Root Extract (Valeriana officinalis). No added fillers or artificial ingredients. Store tightly sealed in a cool, dark place; the aroma escapes from a loose lid.

Common questions

• Why does valerian root extract powder smell so strong? Dried valerian develops isovaleric acid, which gives it the pungent earthy odor; the smell is normal, and capsules avoid it.
• How long does valerian root extract take to work? Users describe a gradual onset within about an hour, which is why it is taken in the evening.
• Is a 4:1 valerian extract stronger than plain root powder? Yes, four parts of root are concentrated into one part of extract, so a smaller serving is used.

Disclaimer. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Valerian is a traditional botanical, and traditional use does not establish that it will produce any particular result. Consult your healthcare provider before use if you take any medication or have a medical condition. Use at your own risk and keep out of reach of children. Formulated by Healing Herbals, run by a practicing herbalist of 13+ years.