| Scientific name | Valeriana officinalis |
| Appearance | Dry and fibrous root, knotted, with a rough surface, sometimes in chips |
| Smell | Strong, earthy, persistent, sometimes considered unpleasant |
| Color | Light brown to gray-brown, paler inside |
| Used parts | Dried root (whole, cut, or powdered) |
| Origins | Europe, temperate Asia, North America |
| Toxicity level | Weak (tolerated at traditional doses; sedative at high doses, not recommended with alcohol or sleeping pills) |
