Item #HVALC: Valerian Root, Cut

Sometimes referred to as All-Heal, Valerian Root, or Valeriana officinalis in Latin, is native to Europe and parts of Asia, and has been introduced to North American soils. Among the ancient Greeks and Romans, it was treated as a medicinal herb of great virtue, with much mention by the esteemed physicians Hippocrates and Galen, whose works have formed the foundation for much of modern medicine. Some lore also holds that it is quite useful in rites of purification and protection, particularly when seeking to ward against the magic of your enemies. Indeed, in Sweden it was tradition for Valerian Root to be placed in the clothing of the Groom, to ward off the evil attentions of envious Elves.

Among modern herbalists Valerian Root is a popular sleep aid and dietary supplement. It is often used in treating sleeping disorders, restlessness, and anxiety and even as a muscle relaxant. Though it often takes weeks to fully being working, immediate beneficial effects are sometimes observed. Some herbalists also use it in treating digestive issues, ranging from stomach pain to irritable bowel syndrome. Though it is most frequently used as a sedative, some studies have also shown that it can sometimes stimulate those who are fatigue, and possible night terrors among those who do not digest it well.

Item #HVERC: Vervain, Cut

Actually the common name for the genus of Verbena, Vervain has long been known in herbalism and folk medicine, perhaps most commonly as an herbal tea. In Ancient Egypt it was known as Tears of Isis, and in Greece it was referred to as "Juno's Tears," both referring to the divine qualities that it was believed to have. The Romans used it as well, often placing it on altars of Jupiter in sacrifice, and considered it among the most potent of sacrificial herbs. Early Christian lore also spoke of Vervain being applied to the wounds of Jesus after he was removed from the cross, and from this medieval lore also speaks of it being referred to as Holy Herb or Devil's Bane. Some traditions also hold that it offers powerful protection against vampires, and other evil spirits, and it sees this use frequently still in some parts of Italy. When introduced to North America, the Native American Pawnee took it up and found use for it in reaching religious states as well as using it to better fathom their dreams.

Medicinally, Vervain was at one point considered to be a great treatment for up to 30 different ailments. Today, most herbalists simply believe it to be good for fevers and ulcers, with some also thinking it an aid in treating pleurisy and other such ailments. Others still have used it in creating poultices, particularly for the treatment of headaches and rheumatism.