valerian

va-le-ri-an · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A perennial flowering plant (genus Valeriana) with clusters of small pink or white flowers.

  2. 2.

    A herbal remedy derived from the root of the valerian plant, used as a sedative and sleep aid.

  3. 3.

    The dried root of the valerian plant used medicinally.

Forms

plural: valerians

Related words

See also: herb, sedative
Synonyms: all-heal, garden heliotrope

Etymology

From Medieval Latin Valeriana, possibly named after the Roman province of Valeria, or from Latin valere (to be strong, healthy).