Valerian (507) — a portrait of the phosphorus preparation

Common valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is the sixth compost preparation and bears the number 507. It holds a special position in two ways: it is the only liquid compost preparation, and it is made not from the root but from the flowers. Steiner associates it with phosphorus. This portrait sets out the plant, its picture of action and its application.

The plant

The name Valeriana probably derives from valere ("to be healthy"). As a medicinal plant, valerian is known for its calming, antispasmodic effect. It grows on wet, nutrient-rich soils, in open woodland and along streams and banks. The flowers are collected for the preparation.

Picture of action: phosphorus and warmth

According to Steiner, the valerian preparation stimulates the manure to engage with phosphorus — an element the plant needs especially when flowering. The valerian flower juice thus supports flower formation in crops and ornamental plants. Sprayed over the compost, the preparation lays itself like a warming, protective sheath around the maturing heap. This warming effect also makes valerian useful beyond the compost.

Making it: juice instead of a cycle in the earth

The valerian preparation needs no animal sheath and does not go through a cycle in the earth. The flowers are pressed — for larger quantities in a fruit press, for small ones with a screw clamp and boards; beforehand they can be turned into a pulp with a mincer or mortar so that the juice comes out more easily. The juice is preserved by lactic fermentation, started with a little whey or strained yoghurt liquid, in a bottle with an airlock. After a few weeks, the fermented, dark juice is stored in a cool, dark place.

Application: in the compost and as frost protection

In the compost, the valerian preparation is diluted in warm water and sprayed over the maturing heap. Used on its own, it has a warming effect that is used in practice as frost protection: sprayed on flowers and sensitive crops in the evening, when there is no wind, before expected frosty nights, it increases resistance to cold. Dosage and timing for this can be found in the article Biodynamic preparations in spring.

Frequently asked questions about valerian 507

What makes the valerian preparation special?

It is the only liquid compost preparation, is made from the flowers and needs no maturing in the soil — only preservation by lactic fermentation.

What is valerian used for outside the compost?

As frost protection: sprayed on flowers and sensitive crops in the evening before frosty nights to make use of its warming effect.