Hey Phil...Valerian is a great little herb. Here is a few recipes & some info on Valerian also.
Harvest roots for medicinal use in the fall of their second year.
MEDICINAL: Valerian is a relaxer, and is very effective for insomnia. It is often used as a tranquilizer, but it leaves no sluggish effects on the user. It is used for nervous tension, pain relieving, and for muscle spasms. It should not be taken over a long period of time, as it can cause mental depression in some people after long-term steady use.
NERVE CALMING TEA:
Chamomile (1 part)
Lavender
flowers (1 part)
Peppermint leaves (1 part)
Fragrant valerian root (2 parts)
Fennel
seed (3 parts)
Milfoil (3 parts)
Steep 1 tsp. in 1/2 cup boiling water. Take 1/2 cup warm per day.
MENSTRUAL PROBLEMS TEA:
Goldthread (8 parts)
Tansy (8 parts)
Fragrant valerian root (4 parts)
Rosemary leaves (2 parts)
Rue herb (2 parts)
Boil 1-1/2 tsp. mixture slowly in 2 cups of water, covered, for 2 to 3 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes and strain. Take 1 cup morning and night. Sweeten if desired.
Valerian Information