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valerian | (Read 254 times) |
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rachael hamblin
Posts: 129
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May 16, 2008, 09:42:44 PM |
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We have some valerian growing in our yard and we're wondering if there are uses for parts of the plant other than the root, since we'd rather not kill the plant to use it. I've been trying to find information on valerian leaves and came across it used in a couple of herb formulas but haven't found any info on its use. Does anyone know anything about this? I'm also wondering about whether it would be okay for the plant to cut it back at this point in the season, since in a few weeks or so its going to start smothering the strawberries.
Thanks!
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rachael hamblin
Posts: 129
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May 17, 2008, 06:30:05 PM |
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I've found the answer to part of this: I was told that if you cut back the valerian top to about 3 or 4 inches high a few times over the summer, it increases the size of the root. So a) it can be cut back without harming the plant and b) this would be good if one was planning to harvest the root. Still trying to find out about use of the leaves, though apparently in Fight Club it was prescribed to Jack to help with insomnia, wouldn't trust that to determine usage but it would imply it might be useable...
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permaculture.dave
Posts: 113
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May 20, 2008, 10:38:27 AM |
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This is purely anecdotal, but I've heard that when the Bullock kids were little they would occasionally have tantrums. Apparently, simply handing them a valerian flower to sniff would calm them down pretty quickly.
Next time you pick up a copy of Newsweek and feel like throwing a tantrum grab a flower and give it a sniff. See if it helps... 
Dave
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kelda
Posts: 263
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August 11, 2008, 11:37:13 PM |
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I'd second Dave's story.
Valerian is a great choice for the Puget Sound area, as I've seen big patches of a native variety growing at Mt. Rainier Nat'l Park.
So I picked a bunch up while backpacking, was fingering it as I walked, and 15 minutes later am wondering to my friends: 'golly, I'm feeling So tired all of a sudden, what's up?'
oh yeah
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permaculture.dave
Posts: 113
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September 17, 2008, 04:55:59 PM |
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On another note, you should be able to get at the roots of a mature plant without killing it entirely. I would dig up the root and rhizomes and take some for medicine. If you put a few sizable chunks back in the ground they should re-sprout again next year and grow more for you.
Dave
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