What Does Valerian Smell Like? Decoding This Medicinal Herb’s Infamous Funky Fragrance

Valerian root is well-known for its pungent unpleasant odor. But what exactly does valerian smell like? The scent of this herbal remedy has been notoriously difficult to describe often eliciting reactions of disgust and comparisons to dirty socks or stinky cheese. Understanding the distinct funk of valerian can provide insight into the plant’s therapeutic properties and cultural history.

Common Descriptors of Valerian’s Smell

Those who encounter valerian root frequently struggle to pin down its peculiar smell, resorting to vivid—and unflattering—similes Here are some of the most common ways valerian’s aroma is characterized

• Musky, earthy, muddy
• Damp, moldy, musty
• Stale, pungent, sharp
• Sweaty, dirty socks, locker room
• Rotten cheese, rancid butter
• Skunk, animal fur
• Overripe fruit
• Pungent urine

The overall consensus is that dried valerian root and its preparations have an unappealing smell. But the exact scent profile perceived seems to depend on the individual

What Causes the Distinctive Smell?

The compounds responsible for valerian’s odor are found naturally within the roots and rhizomes of the plant. Drying tends to concentrate and intensify the smell. Key contributors include:

• Isovaleric acid – Imparts sweaty, cheese-like scent
• Valerenic acids – Earthy, musky aroma
• Valeranone – Moldy, musty smell
• Volatile oils – Skunky, urine-like odor

As these substances break down, especially with heat and moisture, they produce increasingly smelly degradation products. Exposure to water when brewing tea or preparing extracts further activates the chemical reactions that generate valerian’s signature stench.

Does Valerian Flower Smell Too?

Interestingly, the small, white or pink flowers of the valerian plant are relatively fragrant with a light, sweet perfume. It is specifically the underground root portion that emits the offensive smell most associate with valerian. The herb’s delicate blossoms were even used historically to craft floral-scented soaps and cosmetics.

So while the valerian plant has modestly pretty blooms, the roots exude a far more pungent funk.

Cultural and Historical Associations

Throughout history, valerian’s unmistakable smell has influenced how different cultures viewed and utilized this medicinal plant:

• Ancient Greeks called valerian “Phu” meaning “to stink.”
• Europeans referred to it as “All Heal” and “Herb of the Holy Ghost” believing the odor drove out evil spirits and demons during the medieval period.
• Traditional Chinese medicine texts from the 10th century noted valerian’s odor but still prescribed it as a sedative.
• The Aztecs noted Spaniard Hernán Cortés and his men would eat valerian to stop hand tremors, likely inflicted by the smell.

Valerian’s scent has prompted an array of nicknames, myths, and practices associated with the herb through the ages.

Why Does Valerian Root Smell So Bad?

The compounds responsible for valerian’s smell serve an important ecological purpose – protecting the plant from threats. In the wild, the odor and taste deter insect pests and animal grazing that could damage the plant.

So while the stench may be foul to humans, it’s actually an ingenious natural defense mechanism that enabled valerian’s survival as a species.

Does the Smell Impact Medicinal Effects?

Interestingly, the very molecules that give valerian its stinky smell also cause its calming, anxiety-reducing effects.

Substances like isovaleric acid and valerenic acid interact with receptors in the brain, allowing valerian to act as a mild sedative.

So holding your nose from the odor also means avoiding its potential therapeutic benefits!

Tips to Reduce Valerian Root’s Funky Smell

If you use valerian supplements but find the smell off-putting, here are a few tricks to make it more palatable:

• Opt for odor-reduced capsules or tablets rather than loose tea or tinctures
• Mix with strongly flavored juices, foods, or herbs to mask the aroma
• Choose deodorized extracts that use purification methods to lessen the stench
• Store in sealed containers and avoid opening indoors
• Handle quickly then wash hands and surfaces to prevent lingering odors

While the funk may be minimized, the root’s musky, muddy essence still comes through for most valerian preparations.

Descriptors Capture Valerian’s Complex Scent Profile

Creative descriptors like “dirty socks” or “sweaty gym clothes” are used not to insult valerian root, but to capture its intricate odor profile. Comparing it to pungent cheeses and animal smells provides a sensory reference to convey valerian’s hard-to-describe essence.

So embrace the smelly similes as a way to understand valerian’s scent and link it to the powerful plant compounds that offer calming relaxation. Just be sure to take precautions to keep the funk away when consuming valerian supplements!