Valerian

Valerian is a tall flowering plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, and the part used in tea is the dried root. It has a strong, earthy, musky aroma that some compare to aged cheese or damp forest floor, with a woody, slightly bitter taste. Because its flavor is so bold, valerian is usually blended with lemon balm, chamomile, mint, lavender or orange peel in herbal blends. A spoonful of honey and a slice of lemon help round out the cup.

Learn about every ingredient we use in our Tea Ingredients A–Z.