Common name:

Valerian

Family:

Valerianaceae

Parts used:

Roots

Chemistry:

Volatile oil 0.35 – 1% – inc borneol esters – anaesthetic, valeric acid – sedative, valerenone, valerenal, eugenyl. cyclopentane sesquterpenes (valerenic acid). Iridoids 0.5 – 2% – valepotriates, Alkaloids – actinidine, valerine, valerianine, chatinine.  Miscellaneous – flavanoids, sterols, tannins

Main actions:

Nervine.  Sedative.  Anti-spasmodic.  Carminative.

Other Actions:

Hypnotic, hypotensive, anxiolytic, stimulant, analgesic.

Dosage:

2–6ml TID

Safety:

Avoid in over excited conditions and hot people, as it can overstimulate. Correct dosage is important. Fresh plant tinctures more reliable. May increase effects of CNS depressants or alcohol. Excess causes headaches, palpitations, stupor and may be addictive.  Avoid in liver problems.