Vitamin Guide
Valerian
A perennial plant native to North America and Europe, valerian has pinkish-colored flowers that grow from a tuberous rootstock, or rhizome. Taken for centuries as an aid to sleep, valerian can also act as a calming agent in stressful daytime situations. This herb gently induces slumber, without the unpleasant side effects of conventional drugs. Also used in treating anxiety disorders and conditions worsened by stress, such as diverticulosis and irritable bowel syndrome.