Home / A List of Some Products / Valerianae officinalis
Valerianae officinalis (Valerian)
This herbaceous plant is native to Europe and Asia, but is now also naturalized in North America. It is mainly the rhizome, the underground stem, which is used for medicinal purposes. Valerian self-sows and spreads by root runners. Growing up to 1.7 meters, this perennial herb has deeply divided leaves. Its small white or pinkish flowers that form flat-topped clusters bloom from June to August. The underground parts of the plant – i.e. the roots, rhizome and its runners – are harvested in the fall, dried and crushed to produce the herbal medicine. These parts contain the herbal active ingredients: valepotriates, essential oil (including valerenic acid), sesquiterpenes and alkaloids. The tranquilizing effect is probably not related to just one active ingredient, but rather a combination of constituents
Valerian is a mild sedative. It is effective in treating a number of nervous disorders, such as insomnia, restlessness, tension, anxiety and fatique. Valerian does not cause drowsiness; in fact, it promotes concentration, which is why it is recommended to treat the fear associated with examinations. Traditional applications also include upset stomach, heart papitations and as a therapy against menopausal complaints.
More about this topic
If you have any further questions concerning the specification of this product, please contact us.
more
more
Stand: 28-08-2008
Print this page
Email this page
back