Sedation, antispasmodic, anticonvulsive, expelling gas, lowering blood pressure

Tinctures, teas, fresh or dried root

Valerian’s most common use is as a herbal sedative, without inducing an altered state. It is useful for calming animals during thunderstorms, on trips or helping them rest. It may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in epileptic animals.

Valerian also helps spastic colon or upset stomach due to nervousness.

To use as a sedative, give 5 drops of tincture 3-4 times a day, starting 3 days prior to the stressful event. For cats, use only 1-3 drops.

For helping upset stomach, give 0.25-0.5mL of tincture for each 30 pounds of animal’s body weight 2-3 times daily.

• Large amounts of valerian may cause nausea and vomiting.
• Some animals may experience stimulation rather than sedation from valerian.
• Do not use valerian in pregnant animals.

Wulff-Tilford, Mary, and Gregory L. Tilford. All You Ever Wanted to Know About Herbs for Pets. Irvine, CA: BowTie, 1999. Print.

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