Valerian "Valeriana officinalis"

Valerian was often used to treat shellshock in the First World War.

It is one of the most powerful herbal remedies for a stressed nervous system.  It is thought to relieve anxiety  I believe medical herbalists use it for the treatment of severe insomnia and for reducing high blood pressure.  Valerian has a tranquillising effect and is mildly narcotic.  It can be drank as an infusion.  Using a concoction in the bath may ease skin rashes.

Valerian is a very powerful herb and must not be used to excess or with sedatives.

Root valerian can be placed in a rat trap to attract vermin.  Cats are attracted to valerian.

It's name comes from the Latin valere which means "to be well."  The Greek physician Galen named it "phu".  Quite appropriate as it doesn't smell very nice!

The plant isn't used for culinary purposes but it's believed over 400 years ago people in Northern England made soup from it.  It's best planted in moist soil in full sunshine or partial shade.

Aloe Vera and its uses

Aloe vera is an ingredient in many sun tan lotions, hair-care products and moisturising creams.  The sap taken from the fleshy leaves is thought to have healing and moisturising properties.  It was thought to be one of Cleopatra's favourite beauty treatments.

Aloe vera likes hot sunshine and very dry conditions.  It will tolerate very arid conditions.  Aloes has been used medicinally for over 2,000 years.

These days aloe vera juice is widely available.  It may have a laxative effect on the bowel.