People often say that anxiety and stress cause many illnesses. You know that quality rest and sleep are sources of well-being and a good mood. If you are still stressed and suffering from insomnia, valerian flower tea can help. This tea has calming and stress-relieving properties, but in a bit lighter way, than valerian root tea. Valerian tea is a natural remedy, a gift from Mother Nature, that should be available in every home. Learn about the valerian tea benefits and possible side effects, that bring its flowers. All the answers are in this article about this incomparable drink.
Valerian Tea: Origin and History in Brief
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a perennial plant of the Valerian family (Valerianaceae) that grows in most parts of Europe except the south. There are several subspecies of valerian, but the most commonly used source for tea is Valeriana officinalis. The tea usually is made using valerian roots, which give the drink its characteristic taste. But you can make lighter, slightly sweeter, and floral, non-bitter, and non-intensive tea from valerian flowers.
Valerian flower tea has roots in ancient herbal medicine, with a rich history that dates back to antiquity. The valerian plant was first used by ancient Greeks and Romans, who valued it for its calming effects on the nervous system and its ability to improve sleep. Known as “Phu” due to its strong scent, valerian was also used religiously to restore emotional balance. Ancient Greeks and Romans highly valued valerian roots, though flowers were also used, albeit less commonly. The Greek physician Dioscorides mentioned valerian as a remedy for insomnia.
Valerian is a stimulant, which in the mid-19th century led to the treatment of some ailments. At that time, it was generally poorly regarded as a medicinal plant. Valerian flower tea, though less known than the root decoction, became appreciated in folk medicine. Its milder effect made it suitable for sensitive individuals or those who needed gentler relaxation support.
However, during the Second World War, valerian regained popularity in England, where it was used to relieve air raids caused stress. Interestingly, folk medicine practitioners trusted in valerian root tea properties, and its popularity has not diminished today.
Valerian Tea Benefits, that Flowers Brings
Valerian tea benefits, which offers its flowers, has unique qualities that distinguish it from the stronger valerian root tea. Here are some specific benefits of valerian flower tea:
- Gentler Calming Effect. Valerian tea from flowers provides a mild, soothing effect on the nervous system, making it ideal for those who want to relax without the more sedative qualities of the root. This is a good choice for daytime relaxation or reducing mild stress without drowsiness.
- Milder Sleep Aid. While valerian root is known for promoting deep sleep, valerian flower tea is milder, which can support sleep without making you feel overly drowsy. This gentle support is often enough for people who only need a little help winding down before bedtime.
- Balanced Mood Support. Valerian flowers contain compounds that offer mild mood-enhancing effects, which can help lift spirits and reduce irritability. Its gentler action can make it a good option for supporting mood balance throughout the day without causing lethargy.
- Lower Risk of Grogginess. Valerian flower tea’s effects are less sedating than valerian root, so it’s less likely to cause grogginess upon waking. This makes it especially beneficial for people sensitive to sedative herbs or prefer a lighter touch in their relaxation tea.
- Less Risk of Tolerance. Regular use of valerian root can sometimes lead to a reduced effect over time, as the body can build tolerance to some of its compounds. Since valerian flower tea is milder, it’s often possible to enjoy it more regularly without risking this tolerance effect.
How Do I Harvest Valerian Flowers for Tea?
Harvesting valerian flowers for tea requires careful timing and proper drying to preserve the flowers’ delicate properties. The best time to harvest valerian flowers is in late spring to early summer when they are in full bloom, typically from May to July. You should collect flowers in the morning. Select flowers that are fully open but still fresh. Avoid flowers that are starting to wilt or turn brown, as they may have lost some potency.
Traditional drying includes spreading the flowers in a single layer on a drying rack, screen, or cloth in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. This method preserves their color, aroma, and beneficial properties. Alternatively, you can bundle small groups of stems and hang them upside down in a dry, dark place. Keep bundles small to allow for good airflow around each flower cluster. Valerian flowers are delicate and should dry in about 5–7 days, depending on humidity levels.
You can make valerian flower tea whenever stress, anxiety, insomnia, or other disorders hit. Below are some tea recipes that use valerian and other herb, and additive combinations to give different flavors and valerian tea benefits. You can combine valerian with your other favorite teas.
Valerian Flowers and Mint Tea
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon dried valerian flowers or 2 tablespoons fresh valerian flowers, 1 tablespoon dried mint leaves, and 2 cups of boiling water.
Preparation:
Mix the valerian flowers with the mint leaves in a saucepan and cover with boiling water. Wait 5-10 minutes. Drink warm water at bedtime or when symptoms of anxiety strike.
Lemon and Valerian Flower Tea
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon dried valerian flowers, the same amount of fresh lemon juice (to taste), 1 teaspoon honey (to taste), a slice of lemon, and 1 cup boiling water.
Preparation:
Put the dried valerian flowers in a cup. Add lemon juice and honey to taste. Fill it with boiling water. Drink it warm at bedtime or for stress relief.
Classical Recipe of Valerian Tea from Flowers
Ingredients: 1-2 teaspoons dried valerian flowers and 1 cup boiling water.
Preparation: place a teaspoon of dried valerian flowers in a cup, cover it with boiling water, and let the valerian tea steep for 5-7 minutes. Drink warm water before bedtime.
Valerian and Rosemary Tea
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon dried valerian flowers, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, and 1 cup boiling water.
Preparation: mix the valerian flowers with the rosemary and cover it with boiling water. Let it stand for 5-7 minutes. Serve warm if you want to feel the subtle combination of valerian and rosemary tea.
Valerian Tea Home Beauty Treatments
Valerian tea can also be used in home beauty treatments. Due to the calming effect it provides, it can be used for hair or skin care. Here are some ways to use the beneficial properties of valerian for your beauty:
- For the skin. Valerian tea can be used to refresh and soothe the skin. This treatment is beneficial after a long day. Prepare some valerian tea and let it cool down. Moisten a cotton pad with chilled valerian tea and gently wipe your face. Allow the skin to dry naturally.
- As a hair conditioner. Valerian tea benefits the hair and scalp because it will help nourish and soothe them. Ingredients: cooled valerian tea, 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Procedure: Add apple cider vinegar to the valerian tea. Apply this mixture to your hair and scalp after washing, and leave it on for 5–10 minutes. Rinse your hair with warm water.
- Lip mask. Valerian tea has a relevant combination with honey. This formula will leave your lips soft and moist. Ingredients: Valerian tea and 1 teaspoon of honey. Procedure: Mix chilled valerian tea with honey, and apply it gently to the lips. Wait a few minutes, then rinse with warm water.
It is important to remember that before starting any beauty treatment with valerian tea, you should check your allergy or sensitivity to any of the components.
Side Effects of Valerian Tea
It is true to say that valerian tea can also have side effects. But what symptoms cause the valerian flower tea? Here is the list:
- Drowsiness: One of the primary effects of valerian is its sedative properties, which can cause drowsiness. This can be beneficial if taken before bedtime, but it may not be suitable for daytime use if you need to remain alert.
- Headaches: Some individuals may experience mild headaches after consuming valerian, particularly if they are sensitive to its compounds.
- Gastrointestinal Distress: This tea can cause digestive issues such as nausea, upset stomach, or diarrhea in some people.
- Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may have an allergic reaction to valerian. Symptoms could include itching, rash, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect an allergy, discontinue use and seek medical advice.
- Mood Changes: Some users have reported feelings of agitation or restlessness after consuming valerian, particularly in higher doses.
- Interactions with Medications: Valerian can interact with certain medications, particularly those that have sedative effects (like benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or other central nervous system depressants). It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider if you’re taking any medications.
- Effects on Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is limited research on the safety of valerian during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so it’s best to avoid it unless under medical supervision.
Valerian tea is a natural remedy that is simple and safe to take. This tea can be beneficial for many people who experience stress, anxiety, insomnia, or other nervous system-related disorders. But it is vital to consult a professional before taking valerian flower tea. Do not overuse this tea and closely monitor your body’s reaction.
Sources:
- Smith, J., et al. (2020). „The Efficacy of Valeriana officinalis in Reducing Anxiety.” Journal of Herbal Medicine, 20, 100298.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30712879/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/valerian-root
- https://www.vle.lt/straipsnis/valerijonas/
Associative photos from © Canva.
