Valerian Root What Is Valerian Root ? Valerian root is a medicinal herb derived from the plant Valeriana officinalis , a flowering plant that has been used for centuries in traditional herbal medicine. Often referred to as a natural calming herb , valerian root is widely recognized for its ability to promote relaxation, support sleep quality, and help regulate the body’s response to stress. Beyond its calming effects, some research and traditional uses suggest that valerian r