Some days, everything can start to feel like…too much. Maybe you feel as if you are being pulled apart at the seams–you’re unable to sit still or slow down, and forget about sleeping, that’s not going to happen either.

Perhaps you notice that you are having frequent bouts of headaches or wheezing. You may be feeling chronically fatigued or restless and anxious a lot.

This is a good time to remember valerian. It has a long history of calming just this kind of anxiety, fatigue, and associated conditions including insomnia, palpitations, and even attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

It is also useful for treating menopausal hot flashes, menstrual cramping, and joint pain. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is said to Move Stagnant Blood that can cause pain while improving circulation and supporting heart health. It is also traditionally used to heal injuries and stop bleeding.

Valerian, it’s a good herb (or consider using the essential oil) to have on hand for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is those times when the whole world feels too large, too noisy, and just too much.

Find out more about Valerian (Xie Cao).