Family Name: Valerianaceae

Species: Valeriana officianalis

Local name: Garden Heliotrope

Uses: "The musky root is used in stews and perfumes and unskinned root is a tranquilizer. The herb treats headaches, muscle cramps, and irritable bowel syndrome and is used topically for wounds, ulcers, and eczema. Laboratory tests show antitumor activity. Composted leaves are rich in minerals."

Description: Primarily found in the regions of North America and Europe, Valerian is a yellow-brown tuberous rootstock which produces a 2 to 4 foot flowering stem. The stem is grooved, hollow, and round. From the period of June until September the plant produces a rose-coloured flower. The rootstock is medicinally used.

Chemical: Actively the important compounds of this herb are the valepotriates (iridoid molecules) and valeric acid. These are exclusively found in the valerian herb. The valepotriates were originally thought to be responsible for sedative effects until an aqueous solution was found to have similar properties.

The safety quantum of the valepotriates were questioned after studies demonstrated a mutagenicity (tendency to mutate), most commercial blends under a water-soluble base which is standardized for valeric acids.

Folk History: In the past, this herb was used for the relief of insomnia as well as anxiety and conditions associated with pain. Specifics for which it is noted include migraine, hysteria, and cramps of the intestines, fatigue, and base nerve disorders.

Pharmacology: Of the central nervous system, normalization is effected in some instances (valerian has a sedative effect when the individual is agitated and as a stimulant during periods of fatigue.). It has been noted to lower blood pressure, and enhances the bile flow (a choleric effect); it also can be attributed to the relaxation of the muscles of the intestine as well as an antitumor and antibiotic type activity. However, it is primarily considered as a sedative.

"Insomnia — Several recent clinical studies have substantiated valerian's ability to improve sleep quality and relieve insomnia."

"The first studies were performed on subjects who did not have insomnia. In the first double-blind study involving 128 subjects, an extract of valerian root improved subjective ratings for sleep quality and sleep latency (the time required to go to sleep) but left no "hangover" effect the next morning."

With regards to this study, a similar test was done locally using both an encapsulated form of this root. One 535mg capsule was administered before retiring; the effect was much faster latency as well as greater quality of sleep as well. There was also no ill effects noted after taking this herb. Whereas, after taking a 12mg table of Amytripiline (a chemical sleep agent), while the latency period was equally fast, the aftereffects was that of severe drowsiness into the middle of the next day.

Product # 720-0 Retail $12.50

Dosage: To use as a mild sedative it is recommended that valerian be taken as follows: 30 to 45 minutes before retiring, take one of the following: