Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

Although Valerian is most known for it's use as a sedative, it has a strong history of use or other nervous conditions such as heart palpitations.

 Valerian contains a volatile oil component  (valerianic acid) which gives it the distinctive odour, volatile alkaloids (eg valerianine) and valepotriates, which are compounds called iridoids and are responsible for the sleep inducing property of the herb. It has a tranquilising effect on the central nervous system without being overly sedating but also exerts added spasmolytic, expectorant and diuretic properties.  This is because it also depresses the sympathetic portion of the autonomic nervous system which is responsible for the fight or flight mechanism in the body.

Valerian is only effective when given in adequate doses and when the whole root is used because it is only in combination that the active chemicals are effective.  This makes this plant a great example of the synergistic effect of herbal medicine. It is non habit forming, promoting a refreshing sleep but is also effective in dampening down the overall anxiousness of the person making it the perfect accompaniment for herbs like Chamomile for nervous dyspepsia and Motherwort for nervous palpitations. 

References

The British Herbal Medicine Association (1983) British Herbal Pharmacopoeia. Herbal Medicine Association: West Yorks.

Mills, SY (1988) The Dictionary Of Modern Herbalism.Healing Art Press: Vermont.

Pengelly, A (2004) The Constituents of Medicinal Plants. CABI Publishing: Washington.

Wiess, R.F. (2001) Weiss’s Herbal Medicine: Classic Edition. Thieme: New York