Valerian (herb)

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis, Caprifoliaceae) is a perennial flowering plant native to Eurasia. It produces a catnip-like response in cats.

Crude extracts of valerian root may have sedative and anxiolytic effects; however, the clinical evidence is mixed and debated. It is commonly sold as dietary supplement to promote sleep. A dry ethanol extract of valerian root has been recognized as a medicine for adults with mild symptoms by the European Medicines Agency.