Valerian Essential Oil

Valerian Essential Oil is produced by steam distillation of the roots and rhizomes of Valeriana officinalis. It has a intense earthy aroma with musky, woody, warm, and characteristic root-like notes and is generally considered a base note in aromatic formulations.

Four Primary Constituents and Typical Ranges

• Bornyl acetate: approximately 10–25%
• Camphene: approximately 5–15%
• β-Caryophyllene: approximately 5–15%
• Valerenal and valeranone: approximately 2–10%

These are representative natural ranges rather than guaranteed batch values. Composition varies with plant variety or chemotype, growing region, harvest, processing, distillation, storage, and the individual production batch.

Common Uses and Aromatic Properties

This essential oil is commonly used in bedtime diffusion, deeply grounding massage, meditation blends, emotional settling, and earthy natural perfumery. In aromatherapy, it is traditionally valued for calming, grounding, relaxing, antispasmodic, and emotionally settling properties. These descriptions refer to customary aromatic and cosmetic use and are not claims that the oil diagnoses, treats, cures, or prevents disease.

Adult Dilution and Use

Use at 0.5–2% for adult topical preparations, equal to approximately 1–4 drops in 10 mL of carrier. Begin at the lowest dilution because the aroma is powerful. Drop measurements are approximate because drop size varies by oil and dispenser. Begin with the lowest effective dilution and perform a patch test before broader use.

Use With Children

Not recommended for children under 6. For ages 6–12, use no more than approximately 0.25–0.5% and only occasionally. Do not use essential oils routinely with children under age 2 unless directed by a pediatric healthcare professional or qualified clinical aromatherapist. Never place essential oils in or near a child's eyes, nose, mouth, ears, or hands.

Safety Precautions

May cause significant drowsiness. Avoid before driving or operating equipment and do not combine with alcohol, sleep aids, or other sedating substances without professional guidance. For external and aromatic use only. Do not ingest unless specifically directed by a properly qualified healthcare professional. Avoid the eyes and mucous membranes, keep out of reach of children, and discontinue use if irritation or breathing discomfort occurs.