Valerian Root magical properties have been used for centuries. We have compiled the history of Valerian and its use in magical and metaphysical practice. The medicinal use of Valerian is covered but mind our medical disclaimer as we are not physicians or therapists.
Valerian Root History
There are about 150 species worldwide of the specific epithet, Valeriana. It was so well regarded as a remedy in medieval times that they commonly referred it to as ‘All Heal’.
The root is aromatic. Though most find the smell unappealing and think it smells like feet or a locker room. Cats seem to be intoxicated by its scent and it seems attractive to rats as well, and was used to bait rat traps. Then again, Anglo-Saxons in England would use the stems and leaves of the herb as salad. Other traditions would place the root in clothing and use it as a base in perfumes.
Valerian Root Magical Properties
Alchemists relate valerian to feminine qualities. Its element is water and the ruling planet is Venus. Venus Rules Taurus and Libra, neither of which are water signs. Valerian properties are a combination of water-Venus and not an amalgamation.
We can use Valerian as a saining or fumigation herb of protection and purification . The combination of protection and sleep provides support to the psyche. With a combination of Venus and water, how can it not relate to love magic?
Historical Use of Valerian Magic
- The root is ground and added to protection sachets. The ancient Greeks would hang the protection sachet under a window to charm evil away.
- Spread valerian around a ritual space to cleanse and purify the space. King Solomon’s sprinkler is to have included the herb as an ingredient when cleansing the temple.
- Add the herb to a love sachet. It was said that the sprig pinned to the garment of a woman would cause men to “follow her like children”.
- Steep some valerian in the ritual cup when doing work when the Moon is in Virgo or Aquarius.
Valerian Root Healing Magick *
Valerian is used to relax the nerves. It has been used sedative and is safe to use to reduce anxiety, tension and hysterical states. Its antispasmodic properties aids in relieving muscle and menstrual cramps.
Teas:
1 teaspoon valerian steeped in a cup of hot water for 15minutes.
Tension and mental calming: ½ teaspoon valerian, ½ teaspoon skullcap
Sleep: ½ teaspoon valerian, ¼ teaspoon passion flower. Drink one hour before bed
Bibliography
Beyerl, Rev. Paul, A Compendium of Herbal Magick, Blaine, WA.: Phoenix Publishing Co., 1998
Beyerl, Rev. Paul, The Master Book of Herbalism, Blaine, WA.: Phoenix Publishing Co., 1984
Cunningham, Scott, Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, St. Paul, MN: Llewellyn Publications, 2015
Grieve, M, A Modern Herbal, New York: Dover Publications, Inc., 1971
Hoffmann, David, The Holistic Herbal, 2001 Harper Collins, London
Follow Us On Social Media
© Hermits’ Cupboard, Ltd and hermitscupboard.com, 2020. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Hermits’ Cupboard, Ltd and hermitscupboard.com with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. – Thank you.
