... valeric acid) Modern Uses Valerian root is most commonly used to induce sleep in people with mild to moderate ... In addition to inducing sleep, it is also used as a natural sedative, to calm anxiety, and ... early as 420 BC. Valerian root has been used in Europe, Asia, North America, and Australia; ... Anglo-Saxon, Medieval, and Renaissance texts. It was used to promote sleep, as a sedative, to relieve nausea ...