Valerian tea
A traditional tea brewed from dried valerian root, with a sharp smell, drunk before sleep.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon (2–3 g) chopped dried valerian root
- 1 cup (150 ml) boiling water
- Optional: a pinch of lemon balm or mint
Method
- Put the root in a teapot and pour boiling water over it.
- Steep covered for 10–15 minutes.
- Strain; drink 30–60 minutes before bed.
The European Medicines Agency recognises valerian root for mild nervous tension and sleep problems; the effect usually becomes noticeable after 2–4 weeks of regular use. Its smell is sharp; lemon balm or mint softens it. Do not combine with alcohol or sleeping pills, and do not drive after drinking it.
Valerian: the science, drug interactions and sources →