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Valeriana Wallichi
Rhizome or
rootstock.
DESCRIPTION :
The plant is a
perennial herb with a thick horizontal rootstock; the white or
pinkflowers are in inflorescences in a corymb and are often unisexual.
The irregular shape of the rootsl rhizome is quite characteristic.
PHYTOACTIVE :
The rhizomes contain
0.5-2% of essential oils. The constituents identified are arachidic
acid, haspertonic acid, valerianic acid, acetyl valerianic acid, behemic
acid, caproic and isovaleric acid, some isomeric terpenes; et-and
0-valenes, valerian phenol, caffeinic and chlorogenic acid, tannins and
the alkaloids valerine and chetine. Calcium and heavy metals like lead,
iron, zinc, magnesium, copper have also been identified .
Valepotriates which are iridoid substances have been identified as the
sedative principles'.
DIRECTIONS FOR USE :
The valepotriates
are chiefly responsible for the neuroleptic and sedative qualities
exhibited by V. wallichii','. Valerian extract with enriched
valepotriate content shows the strongest sedative activity. The
metabolise homobaldrinal' exhibits a very high sedative activity. Under
laboratory conditions, in mice and in. guppies',valerian extract
depresses motor, autonomic activity and alters behavioral patterns. It
has a negative chronotropic but a positive inotropic action on the heart
in animals'. Given systemically to cats and rabbits, 20% valerian
tincture caused an increase in the rate and depth of respiration'.
Valepotriates inhibit DNA and protein synthesis in vitre'. Valepotriates
have also been tested in Krebs 11 ascitic tumors in mice. Didroyaltrate
has a high cytotoxic activity on Krebs-11 ascitic tUM0r82.The GNS
depressant and sedative action of valerian extract finds a use in the
ayurvedic therapy of delirium, insomnia, epilepsy, and in behavioural
disorders. It is also used in anxiety and tremors. It is also used in
inflammations of joints. In dysmenorrhea it is used to relieve pain it
is also used in general debility.
CONTRAINDICATION :
Ayurvedic texts
mention that overdosage result in giddiness, vomiting, cold limbs and
bradycardia. The antidote recommended for these symptoms, at their
onset, is black resins. The active principles are sedatives.
FORMULATION AND
DOSAGE :
Dried root powder :
1 - 3 gms b.i.d.
Tagiradi kwath : 15
- 30 ml b.i.d.
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