Witches and wizards have used the herb for much longer, however, and there are reports of various potions involving valerian as far back as ancient Mesopotamia. There are records of valerian being recommended as a cure for insomnia as far back as the second century, when the Muggle surgeon and philosopher Galen spoke about its properties. However, when combined with magic and magical ingredients, as in the Sleeping Draught, it takes on slightly stronger magical properties, though it still functions as a sleep aid. It is a plant that, in its natural state, displays only mundane qualities that make it safe for Muggle consumption to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders.
Valerian is an interesting herb with a long history of use in both Muggle and magical medicine. Today, you will have the opportunity to use the sprigs (leaf-bearing stems) of the plant in a simple, temporary Sleeping Draught. In your past Herbology lessons, you discussed the magical herb valerian and its soporific effects. But for now, onward to the lab and all that will come later.
After the lab is complete, I will also go over a new, longer term project I would like you to start this week. Welcome to your first lab of Year Two Potions, as well as your last class before the midterm.
