Valerian
Valerian has been revered as nature’s chill pill for over 2000 years. We’ve been turning to this herb for ages for stress relief, relaxation, and sleep issues. In fact it is still used as a mild sedative and is known for supporting the nervous system and its help with circulation issues.
While it’s most commonly used in tea as a sleepytime or calming concoction, it can also be used in bath soaks, tinctures, or capsules. The root is the most used part of this plant, often dried and chopped or ground, but back in the day people also used its leaves and flowers in salads.
Valerian has an earthy aroma that tends to divide people – you either love it or you hate it. It’s native to Europe and Asia, and has set up shop in North America too. It grows best in damp areas and is recognisable by its fragrant pink or white flowers.
Here are some ways valerian has been traditionally used in witchcraft:
- Place some dried valerian in a spell pouch to attract love
- Wear a sprig of valerian to get the attention of others
- Place some dried valerian in an amulet and wear it for protection
- Hang amulets around the home for protection
- Place some fresh valerian on your windowsill to ward evil
- Grind the root to dust and sprinkle it on your threshold to prevent unwanted guests entering
- Use it in new moon spells under the sign of Aquarius or Virgo
- Burn it for ceremonial magic and use the smoke for consecrations
- Place some in a pouch inside your pillow for a good night sleep
- Put a root under the bed of someone who is sick to speed up recovery
It’s also a wonderful addition to spells aiding in shadow work, and can be used in communication spells to stop couples from bickering in marriage.
Valerian is a timeless ally in our pursuit of tranquillity and wellbeing, and (as you can see) it’s quite versatile! From love attraction to protection to stress relief and more, having some valerian on hand is a must-have for any witch.
