Valerian has uses in herbal medicine as a sedative. It has in the past been recommended for epilepsy but that has not been supported by modern research. The main current use of valerian is as a remedy for insomnia. Large doses are known to cause withdrawal symptoms when stopped, as it is mildly addictive. Those with liver disease are advised not to use valerian. Valerian is the source of valeric acid.

The volatile oils that form the active ingredient are extremely pungent, somewhat reminiscent of well-matured cheese or well-matured milk. Valerian tea should not be prepared with boiling water, as this may drive off the lighter oils.

An unusual feature of valerian is that the dried root affects the domestic cat in a similar way as that of catnip. If valerian root is left in a place to which cats have access, they will roll in it, drool on it, and chew it. Burmese cats are attracted to the dried herb and will deliberately destroy containers to obtain it. However, some cats won’t go near valerian root.