valerian

¹

[ vuh-leer-ee-uhn ]

noun

1. any plant of the genus Valeriana, as the common valerian V. officinalis, having small, fragrant flowers of white, lavender, or pink and a root that is used medicinally.
2. a drug consisting of or made from the root, formerly used as a nerve sedative and antispasmodic.

Valerian

²

[ vuh-leer-ee-uhn ]

noun

1. Publius Licinius Valerianus, died a.d. c260, Roman emperor 253–60.

Valerian

¹

/ vəˈlɛərɪən /

noun

1. Valerian260MRomanPOLITICS: hereditary ruler Latin name Publius Licinius Valerianus. died 260 ad , Roman emperor (253–260): renewed persecution of the Christians; defeated by the Persians

valerian

²

/ vəˈlɛərɪən /

noun

1. Also calledallheal any of various Eurasian valerianaceous plants of the genus Valeriana, esp V. officinalis, having small white or pinkish flowers and a medicinal root
2. a sedative drug made from the dried roots of V. officinalis

Word History and Origins

Origin of valerian¹

1350–1400; Middle English valirian < Medieval Latin valeriāna (herb) of Valeria (old Roman province, where plant is said to have been common); -an

Word History and Origins

Origin of valerian¹

C14: via Old French from Medieval Latin valeriana ( herba ) (herb) of Valerius, unexplained Latin personal name

Example Sentences

Herbs that are often promoted for relaxation, stress relief or sleep include valerian root, passionflower, lemon balm and ashwagandha, among others.

From Seattle Times

Other fellow mint lovers recommended brewing fresh sprigs of mint with various herbal teas, like chamomile, hibiscus, valerian and rooibos.

From Salon

Could this be due to the valerian root?

From Seattle Times

My chiropractor recommended valerian root, magnesium and passionflower extract.

From Seattle Times

To induce a deeper sleep, they recommend a blend that includes valerian, a perennial known for its sedative capabilities.

From New York Times