Himalayan Valerian

Valeriana jatamansii, Valeriana Wallichii, Indian Valerian. Herbaceous perennial from the mountains of the NW Himalaya of Nepal and India. This rare and endangered Valerian species has a unique musky aroma resembling a cross between European Valerian and Patchouli. The fragrance from the roots is identical to the fragrance of the true nard or Nardostachys jatamansi and is often used as a substitute in the production of Nard oil. Himalayan or Indian Valerian has been used traditionally for thousands of years in Ayurvedic and Unani systems of medicine. It is commonly used for migraine symptoms, epilepsy, insanity, delirium, insomnia, skin diseases, obesity, scorpion stings, snake bites and as an essential oil in perfumery. The plant makes a sweet ground cover with heart shaped leaves and delicate pinkish white flowers which bloom starting in mid winter. It prefers a moist and shady location and will form a lush green patch with its spreading medicinal rhizomes. Like its cousin, Himalayan Spikenard, the Himalayan Valerian, is suffering from over-harvesting in Nepal and India. Very hardy and a sturdy, easy to grow plant. This very rare and a unique Valerian species is in need of preservation. Prefers partial to full shade. Perennial. Hardy to zone 3.