
Found naturally in the perennial flowering plant valerian (Valeriana officinalis). Volatile esters of valeric acid tend to have pleasant fruity odors and are used in perfumes and cosmetics.
Valeric acid can cause irritation if it comes into contact with the skin, eyes, or mucous membranes.
It can be detected in human blood, feces, saliva and urine as Lactobacilli, bifidobacteria, clostridia, and enterococci secrete valerate as well as other acids including acetate, propionate, butyrate, and lactic acid.