Valerian – a miracle of nature.

The Valerian plants on the estate are from transplanting local rootstock in "ochtes" (terraces) around the stone boundary walls. Every year – unfortunately – a lot of the plants don't survive the summer heat losing their leaves and going into dormancy as the 'sap' of the plant moves into the roots.

After harvest the plants are dried in a shady place for several days.

Preparation:

approximately half a tablespoon of the plant should be boiled in half a litre of water for about ten minutes enough for about 4 cups. Then, leave the plant material (the tea) to steep in the pot for another ten to fifteen minutes. The herb is quite pungent and if you want to moderate the aroma one can add some other herb such as verbena or chamomile at the end to produce a more agreeable taste.

Drink 1-2 cups in the evening, close your eyes and relax.

Common uses for valerian tea:

Calming and Soothing, can help interrupted sleep, insomnia and anxiety.
Drinking Valerian is also said to have soothing and digestive properties that fights colitis, headaches, stress, toothache, sciatica, menstrual pains, etc.

Warning: contraindicated in cases of treatment with sedatives or other drugs that affect the nervous system.