An explanation for the theory regarding the etymological reference to the strong odor is that the herb was also known as "Phou" or "Fy" in antiquity . «Phou» or «fy» is describing a common expression of the peoples of the european continent when smelling a dried Valerian root. According to folk belief this medicine could turn everything painful into good. It was therefore called "wenderot" or similar in germanic language groups, meaning the root that could turn things bad to good. Domestic animals, pets, especially cats become ardent when they smell the herb.