Valerian as a sedative

A sedative is an action that calms the nervous system and reduces stress and nervousness throughout the body. An example of a sedative is valerian which contains sedative iridoids called valepotriates.
valerian is one of the most useful nervines that is available. The fact is recognised by orthodox medicine as it is included in many pharmacopeias as a sedative. It may be safely used to reduce anxiety, tension, over excitable and hysterical states. It is an effective aid in insomnia, having being used for many centuries helping to promote natural healing sleep.
As an antispasmodic herb it aids in the relief of cramp and period pains.
Valerian can help also with migraines and rheumatic pain.
The parts of the plant used are the rhizome and the roots.
It's active constituents are, volatile oils including valerianic acid, isovalerianic acid, borneol, pinene, camphene, bolatile alkaloids.
valerians actions are Sedative, hypnotic, anti-spasmodic, hypotensive, carminative.

Valerian Root Extract


A variety of sources are available here

Another great source is here