An Introduction To Valerian Root Health Benefits and Uses.

Tobacco Root, Valerian Root, Valeriana edulis
Valeriana Edulis also called tobacco root or valerian root, is a plant speciesin the family Caprifoliaceae. Despite the name tobacco root, the herb is not related to the tobacco plant.
Most herbalists will use the dried root, I have tried growing it but finished leaving it growing on.
Edible Use
The seeds, leaves, and roots are edible. It has been reported to me that the root is poisonous raw, but when slowly baked, it produces an edible vegetable that has a peculiar taste and odor. Some people enjoy the flavor; not me. The seeds are also edible when lightly roasted.

Medicinal Uses
Anxiety and Panic Attacks
Tobacco root has a calming effect that is beneficial to patients with panic and anxiety disorders. Take a brew of Tobacco Root Decoction from the leaves or roots to treat these types of attacks.
Depression and Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior
Tobacco root improves symptoms of depression and obsessive-compulsive
disorder by improving the brains activity and calming the spirit in small doses. In larger doses, It can have the opposite effect, so only take small doses of Tobacco Root Decoction for these problems.
Epilepsy
Tobacco root has a relaxing effect on the muscles of the body. For regular use to
prevent attacks, take between 100 mg to 1 gram of dried and powdered tobacco root. Start with a low dose, depending on body size and the severity of the disease and increase it gradually until a level is found that works for the patient.
Menstrual Cramps
For painful menstrual cramps, use Tobacco Root Decoction or take powdered tobacco root. Because of
its analgesic properties and its ability to relax the smooth muscles, this herb makes a good treatment for pain and cramping during menstruation.
Treating Insomnia
I have used tobacco root as a sleep aid with beneficial results. People report that they get to sleep faster and can sleep longer without waking.
They also report that they awaken refreshed without residual drowsiness. It is recommended to take a Tobacco Root Decoction at bedtime
Lowers Blood Pressure and Pulse Rate
Tobacco root relaxes the blood vessels to naturally reduce blood pressure and the pulse rate. Recommended: Use dried tobacco root at doses of 100 mg to 500 mg nightly . Start at 100 mg daily and increase it if needed.
Caution
In ordinary doses, tobacco root exerts a quieting and soothing influence upon the brain and nervous system. However, large doses, too often repeated, it tends to produce pain in the head, heaviness, and stupor.

DO NOT USE IF ON ANY OTHER MEDICATION TO LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE OR PRESCIBED DRUGS FOR SLEEP DISORDERS.

WE ALSO RECOMMEND TAKING VALERIAN FOR SHORT PERIODS ONLY
DID YOU KNOW: Kalms Night and Kalms Night One-A-Night are traditional herbal medicinal products used for temporary relief of sleep disturbances exclusively based on long standing use as traditional remedies. Contain Valerian Root. Always read the label.
Tobacco Root Decoction
2 ounces dried tobacco root, 1-pint water

1. Chop the tobacco root pieces small or grind the roots.
2. Boil the root for 15 minutes or more to release the medicinal qualities into the water.
3. Cool the decoction and strain it to remove the root fibers.
4. Store the decoction for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
   Take 2 ounces of decoction at bedtime for insomnia, or take smaller doses during the day for other treatments.

Prepare an infused oil for skin care.

I also make a tincture and add a couple of drops to a warm cup of Chamomile infused honey tea before bed. If you follow the recipe for this tincture, add a handful dried passion flower too, it helps prevent droziness in the morning.