Mexican valerian (Valeriana mexicana) has a long history of traditional use in Mexican herbal medicine, particularly for supporting relaxation, sleep, and nervous system balance. Its use is primarily based on ethnobotanical reports and traditional knowledge rather than rigorous scientific studies specific to this species. In traditional practice, Mexican valerian is considered to have calming and sedative properties, which are believed to benefit the parasympathetic nervous system by promoting relaxation and reducing nervous tension or anxiety. This parallels the use of European valerian (Valeriana officinalis), which has been more extensively studied and shown to have mild sedative effects that may support parasympathetic activity.

While there is some scientific evidence supporting the effects of European valerian on the nervous system, studies specifically on Mexican valerian are limited. The plant contains similar compounds (such as valerenic acid and related constituents) thought to interact with GABAergic pathways, which play a role in parasympathetic nervous system activity. However, due to the lack of robust clinical trials or pharmacological research on Mexican valerian itself, its use for supporting the parasympathetic nervous system remains primarily justified by tradition rather than strong scientific validation.