Apothecary
Valerian.
Valeriana officinalis
Also known as Garden Heliotrope, All-Heal, Setwell, Capon's Tail
The deep-sleep herb par excellence — root of vivid dreams, of love long-considered, of the long quiet rest that the worried witch most needs. Valerian is the patient friend of any practitioner whose mind cannot let go.
Correspondences
Element
Water
Planet
Venus/Saturn
Zodiac
Virgo
Chakra
Root
Parts Used
Root
Harvest
Autumn
Origin
Europe
Moon Phases
Waning
Practice
Magical Properties
Sleep, love, protection, purification, dreams
The sleep herb par excellence. Add to dream pillows for deep, restorative sleep. Include in love sachets. Use in purification incenses.
Mundane
Mundane Uses
Sedative, anxiolytic, antispasmodic. Well-studied for insomnia and anxiety.
Devotion
Deity Associations
Hecate, Aphrodite (roots)
History
Folklore & History
The name comes from Latin 'valere' (to be strong/healthy). During WWI, it was used to treat shell shock (PTSD). The Pied Piper allegedly used valerian to attract the rats.
Safety
Safety Notes
Avoid with sedative medications and alcohol. Can cause vivid dreams or nightmares in some. Do not drive after taking.
This information is provided for educational and magical reference only. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using herbs medicinally.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Valerian used for in witchcraft?
Valerian is traditionally used in workings for sleep, love, protection, purification, dreams. The sleep herb par excellence.
What element is Valerian associated with?
Valerian is associated with the Water element and the sign of Virgo, and resonates with the Root chakra.
What planet rules Valerian?
Valerian is ruled by Venus/Saturn. In the classical planetary system, this gives the herb its characteristic energetic signature and indicates which workings it most readily amplifies and which planetary hours best suit it.
Is Valerian safe to use?
Some care is required when working with Valerian. Avoid with sedative medications and alcohol. Can cause vivid dreams or nightmares in some. Do not drive after taking. The information here is provided for educational and magical reference only — always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb medicinally.
In Your Practice
Track your work with Valerian.
Record spells, rituals, and observations in your private digital grimoire.
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