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Valerian

Valeriana officinalis

Valerian essential oil

Valerian root oil (Valeriana officinalis) is dominated by bornyl acetate (2-12%), alongside sesquiterpenes including valerenic acid, valerenal, and valeranone. Inhalation of bornyl acetate and related monoterpenes has demonstrated measurable sedative effects in animal models.[1] The non-volatile valerenic acid modulates GABA-A receptors and is the primary anxiolytic agent, while the volatile fraction contributes to the overall calming profile.[2]

Also Known As
Garden Valerian, All-Heal
Family
Herbal
Perfumery Note
Base
Intensity
Very Strong
Extraction
Steam Distillation
Plant Parts
Roots
Origins
Belgium, France, India
Effect
Calming & Relaxing
Aroma
Earthy, Musky, Woody
Applications
Aromatherapy, Medicinal, Massage
Price
$$$$More abundant than the European variety; used heavily in traditional medicine
Blend

References

  1. [1]Effects of valerian root oil, borneol, bornyl acetate and isobornyl acetate on motility of laboratory animals after inhalation — Buchbauer G et al. Pharmazie, 1992
  2. [2]Valerian essential oil for treating insomnia via the serotonergic synapse pathway — Wang W et al. Frontiers in Nutrition, 2022