What Does Valerian Mean?

Valerian is a perennial flowering plant native to Europe and Asia. In the summer when the mature plant may have a height of 1.5 metres, it bears sweetly scented pink or white flowers that attract many fly species, especially hoverflies of the genus Eristalis.

What does valerian mean in English?

1 : any of a genus (Valeriana of the family Valerianaceae, the valerian family) of perennial herbs and shrubs many of which possess medicinal properties. 2 : a preparation of the dried rhizome and roots of the garden heliotrope (Valeriana officinalis) used especially formerly as a carminative and sedative.

Can valerian be harmful?

Although valerian is thought to be fairly safe, side effects such as headache, dizziness, stomach problems or sleeplessness may occur.