Definition

Noun: * A perennial herb: Valeriana officinalis is a tall, rhizomatous flowering plant species belonging to the honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae). It is characterized by its sweetly scented flowers and a root system (rhizomes and roots) that has been used historically and medicinally.

Usage

• is the botanical Latin name for the common valerian plant.
• The term is used in scientific, horticultural, and pharmacological contexts to specify this particular species.
  • Example: The study focused on the sedative compounds found in Valeriana officinalis.
  • Example: For this remedy, ensure you use the true Valeriana officinalis, not a related species.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic and botanical writing, the genus name () is capitalized and the species epithet () is not, and the entire binomial is typically italicized.
• The specific epithet "" indicates that the plant was historically stocked in the (the storeroom of a monastery's pharmacy) and denotes recognized medicinal use.

Variants and Related Words

• Common valerian: The most frequent common name for .
• Garden valerian: Another common name, referring to its cultivation.
• All-heal: A historical folk name referencing its traditional medicinal applications.
• Valerian root: A term often used in herbalism and commerce, referring to the dried rhizomes and roots of used to make teas, tinctures, and supplements.

Synonyms

• Common valerian
• Garden valerian

Notes on Meaning

• It is important to distinguish (the subject of this entry) from other plants sometimes called "valerian," such as (red valerian) or (tobacco root). The term "valerian" used alone can be ambiguous, while is precise.

Noun

1. tall rhizomatous plant having very fragrant flowers and rhizomes used medicinally