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Article Name:  Spectrology or Spectrum analysis of Valeriana officinalis.
Key Words:  Valerian Extract.Valerian root extract.Valerienic acid 0.2%0.4%,0.6%,0.8%.CAS.NO:109-52-4.M.F.C5H10O2.Pentanoic acid;Valeric acid;n-Valeric acid......
Article Link:  http://www.mdidea.com/products/herbextract/valerian/spectrology.html


Subject Preface:

...Spectrology has many meanings, one defined as the science of spectrum analysis in any or all of its relations and applications,daily life and suggestion from archeology...study means learning,gather and research,subject,consideration,plan for the future...it is a kind of trace analysis need prophecy, a prophecy always a certain archeology...time or period means exchangeable place...

1.Archeology and Narrative History Application of Subject:


History of Valerian Root's Use

The ancient Greeks and Romans used valerian root for digestive disorders, menstrual cramps, flatulence, nausea, urinary tract problems, and epilepsy. Ironically, there is only one early mention of valerian root's sleep-inducing properties, by the physician Galen in 2 AD. By the late sixteenth century, growing numbers of Europeans were reaching for valerian root tinctures to help ease anxiety, insomnia, and nervous digestive disturbances. As late as the nineteenth century, valerian root was also the chosen treatment for hysteria and vapors, two "female nervous conditions."

In 1620, the English colonists brought valerian root to North America, along with their most precious belongings. Valerian root eventually became part of the Eclectic physicians' repertoire for nervous system conditions and muscle or bronchial spasms. Valerian root was an official remedy in the US Pharmacopoeia from 1820 until 1936, and valerian root was featured in the National Formulary from 1888 to 1946. During the First World War, valerian root was an important treatment for "shell shock" in soldiers and civilians. Until the rise of synthetic sedative drugs in the 1940's, valerian root was included in standard medical text books in England and the United States. Today valerian root is an approved over-the-counter medicine in Germany, Belgium, France, Switzerland, and Italy. Valerian root is also recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a mild hypotensive (blood pressure lowering) herb.

Once known as the herbe aux chats (herb of cats), valerian root has a long history of appeal for felines. Many cats find valerian root's signature "dirty sock" smell euphoric and have been known to scratch at the labels on apothecary jars of valerian root. In the eighteenth century, a prominent physician suggested that cats be employed to judge valerian root quality! (So far, not a single herb company has followed his advice.) Legend also has it that it was valerian root, not a magical flute, that the Pied Piper used to lure the rats out of Hamlin. It is interesting to note that fresh valerian root does not have the objectionable valerian scent. As the valerian root dries, it changes chemically - producing isovaleric acid, the valerian compound responsible for the distinctive smell.


2.1.Identification of substantiality:Name and taxology


Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a tall leafy perennial easily identified by an unusual aroma that pervades when the plant's roots are exposed. The offending culprit is isovalerianic acid, and is found concentrated in the plant's rootstock. Galen and Dioscorides appropriately named this herb "phu" since the root exudes an odor reminiscent of well-worn socks!

Scientific Name: Valerian

Other Names: Baldarian, Garden Heliotrope, Valeriana sambucifolia,Valeriana wallichi,Valeriane,All-Heal,Amantilla,Baldrian,Great Wild Valerian,Phu,Setwall
Latin Name: Valeriana Officinallis
Family: Valerianaceae
Plant Part: Valerian root

Native to Europe, valerian is a perennial plant that can grow up to 4 feet tall. It has straight hollow stems and white or reddish, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in the summer. Most of the valerian used in herbal preparations is cultivated on farms, but it also grows wild in sunny, wooded areas. Related species grow in Africa, Asia, and North America.

The roots of valerian are used in medicine. Fresh roots have little or no smell, but the dried roots of valerian have a distinctive, sharp smell that has been described as similar to dirty socks. Fresh roots and flowers have been used in flavorings and perfumes.

Valerian's medicinal effects were described by Greek physicians as long as 1500 years ago. At various times since then, it has been used for complaints as diverse as depression, digestive conditions, headaches, and learning/behavior problems in children. None of these uses have been proved in clinical studies, however. Until drugs with more effectiveness were discovered, valerian was used most widely for sleep disorders and nervousness. With the introduction of prescription sedatives in the 1960s and 70s, valerian lost general popularity. In the last several years, valerian use has been regaining favor -- especially among Europeans and Americans.

History: Some say the plant is named after Valerius, who first used it in medicine, while others derive the name from the Latin valere, which means 'to be in health'. The plant was so highly esteemed in medieval times as a remedy that it was given the name All-Heal.

Specialty Definition: Valerian

Valerian plant
Emperor Valerian I, Roman emperor 253-260
Valerian is also a comics character


2.2.Wording Spectrum and local language identification:


VALERIAN
Usage: History
Pronounced: va-LEER-ee-an
From the Roman cognomen Valerianus, which was itself derived from the Roman name VALERIUS. This was the name of a 3rd-century Roman emperor. Several saints also had this name, including a 2nd-century martyr of Lyons.


2.3.Differentiation from transliteration:


Valerian, native to the Americas, Asia, and Europe has been used to ease insomnia, stress-related anxiety, and nervous restlessness for thousands of years, with particular popularity in Europe starting in the 17th century. Now, modern day research, mainly over the last decade, has begun to confirm the scientific validity of these historic uses. It may also ease menstrual and stomach cramps, irritable bowel syndrome, some of the restlessness that accompanies attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and migraine symptoms. There have also been rare reports for use to treat convulsions from a seizure disorder. Its most well-researched use, however, is as a calmant to help people sleep.

Ancestral Language Translations: Valerian

Language:Latin
Period:500 BCE-Modern
Translations:baccar, Valeriana officinalis

Modern Translations: Valerian

Language/Translations for "valerian"; alternative meanings/domain in parentheses.

Afrikaan:balderjan, balderja.
Albanian:san?z (gentian), agnushe (gentian).
Bulgarian:§Ó§Ñ§Ý§Ö§â§Ú§Ñ§ß, §Õ§Ú§Ý§ñ§ß§Ü§Ñ (allheal).
Chinese:£µØ‰€. çÓ²Ý
Czech:kozl¨ªk l¨¦ka?sky.
Danish:laege-baldrian, baldrian.
Dutch:valeriaan.
Esperanto£ºvaleriano.
Finnish:virmajuuri.
French:val¨¦riane.
Frisian:faleriaan.
German:Baldrian.
Greek:¦Â¦Á¦Ë¦Å¦Ñ¦É?¦Í¦Á.
Hungarian:macskagy?k¨¦r.
Italian:valeriana (nard).
Manx:kere hallooin.
Pig Latin:alerianvay.
Portuguese:valeriana.
Romanian:valerian?.
Russian:§Ó§Ñ§Ý§Ö§â§Ú§Ñ§ß§Ñ.
Serbo-Croatian:odoljen.
Spanish:valeriana (corn salad, corn-salad, field salad, lamb's lettuce).
Swedish:v?nderot.
Turkish:kediotu (cherry pie, heliotrope).
Ukranian:§Ó§Ñ§Ý§Ö§â?§Ñ§ß§Ñ.


2.4.Archeology of Quality or Substance Identification:Barter to Standardization:


Even though valerian is a large attractive plant with small white or pink flowers, its fragrance is not one of its major strong suits. Both the Greek doctor Dioscorides and the Roman doctor Galen complained about the smell of valerian in their writings. The only way to describe it is a cross between the odor of rotten cheese and dirty socks. In spite of its malodorous properties, valerian was hailed throughout the Middle Ages as and "all heal" herb. Held in great esteem by practitioners of the ages, valerian has been used for numerous disorders, mostly related to the nervous system.

Taking the plants rather offensive aroma in stride, early European physicians considered it a panacea eventually gave it the nickname of "all-heal." Valerian has enjoyed a long reputation as a remedy to ease migraine, intestinal and menstrual cramps, hysteria, and various "nervous disorders." The herb has been used as a sleeping aid and mild tranquilizer for more than 1,000 years, long before the advent of barbiturates in the early 1900's. In England, valerian was often prescribed to help the population contend with the air raids of World War II.

Since the 1970s, hyperactive and learning-disabled children of Germany have been treated with valerian with positive results. One study involved 120 such children who showed improved concentration and less anxiety after taking doses of valerian for only a few weeks. In terms of its sedative efficacy, valerian has been compared to diazepam (Valium), and L-tryptophan, an amino acid similar to serotonin (one of the brain's neurotransmitters with a sedating effect). It was once prescribed for sleep disorders, but has been permanently banned from American markets due to an incidence of contamination with fatal results. Other familiar and commonly prescribed members of the benzodiazepine family include chlordiazepoxide (Librium), alprazolam (Xanax), and lorazapam (Ativan). However, the reliance upon any of these drugs as a relaxant or sleeping aide involves a high level of risk. Leading physician and author Andrew Weil, M.D. states that "...doctors who prescribe them and most patients who take them do not understand their effects or appreciate their dangers. Benzodiazepine addiction is one of the most difficult forms of drug dependence to treat." Valerian is a safe, non-habit forming alternative.

Major content: acetic acid,borneol(an alcohol),Chatarine(an alkaloid),formic acid,glucoside,gums,isovalerianic acid,phosphorous,pinene,resins,silica,Valerianine,an alkaloid,volatile oil,yellowish-green to brownish-yellow oil
3.Daily life uses of subject material:
3.1.General Scope Description:


According to the American Sleep Disorders Association, one in three adults in America are deprived of a good night's rest on a regular basis. While all of us are occasionally affected by brief periods of restlessness, more than 35 million Americans wrestle with chronic insomnia. If the late-night movie or counting endless sheep hasn't invited the sandman, valerian may offer some respite.

Scientific evidence indicates that valerian root can offer many sleepless Americans a safer, non-addictive alternative for a refreshing night's sleep. Valerian gets its name from the Latin word for "well-being" and valerian root is often used in combination with other calming herbs such as hops (Humulus lupulus), passion flower (Passiflora incarnata), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), chamomile (Matricaria recutita), or skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora). If you are currently taking sedative drugs and want to switch to valerian root, consult an herbally aware physician for advice on making a smooth transition to valerian root. Many practitioners are actually prescribing valerian root to ease withdrawal symptoms from sedative drugs. Keep in mind that valerian root seems to be most effective taken daily, rather than just taken as needed.

Valerian root's popularity as a sedative herb seems to be increasing along with the stresses of modern life. For at least 500 years, Valerian root has been among the most popular remedies in the United States and Europe. In Europe, valerian root is now approved by Germany's Commission E for restlessness and sleeping disorders. Today, according to the National Institutes of Health, as many as one-third of American adults have trouble getting a good night's sleep. The majority of adults get less sleep than they actually need, and more than 60 percent of the American population functions with a chronic sleep deficit. Most people who suffer from sleep disturbances report being under some kind of emotional stress, and an estimated nine million Americans turn to potentially addictive pharmaceutical sleep aids rather than valerian root each year in an effort to cope.

3.1.1.Value:As a mild tranquilizer and sleep aid, valerian may be an effective herb for dealing with temporary feelings of anxiety, nervousness or insomnia. The effects of valerian are generally quite mild when compared to prescription products and synthetic OTC products.

3.1.2.Benefits of Valerian Root

Properties: aromatic, nervine, antispasmodic

Systems affected: nervous, structural

Valerian root decreases sleep latency (the length of time it takes to get to sleep) and the number of nighttime awakenings

Valerian root improves overall sleep quality

Valerian root may improve well-being by decreasing nervousness and anxiety

Valerian root does not cause side effects that are common with sedative drugs, including addiction and morning "hangovers"

Benefit for Brain and Nervous Conditions:anxiety,breathlessness,epilepsy (combined with Mistletoe),giddiness and fainting fits,has a remarkable influence on the cerebro-spinal system,hypochrondriasis (abnormal concern about one's health),hysteria,insomnia,migraines (does not cause side effects like normal sleeping tablets do, it strengthens the nerves instead of anesthetizing them ),nervous unrest and nervous tension ,neuralgia,neurasthenia,St. Vitus Dance

Cardiovascular Conditions,lowers blood pressure (combined with Mistletoe),palpitations of the heart,strengthens the heart

3.1.3.Primary Uses of Valerian:

Valerian root reduces insomnia

Valerian root reduces mild anxiety or restlessness

Valerian root reduces muscle spasms and cramping (traditional)

Valerian root reduces menstrual cramps (traditional)

Valerian root reduces intestinal cramping/colic (traditional)

3.1.4.Other Uses of Valerian:

Increases earthworms in the garden

It has the ability to stir up and increase phosphorous activity in the soil around it

Provides rich mineral content to compost

3.1.5.Primary Action of Valerian:

Valerian root as anodyne [an agent that soothes or relieves pain)
Valerian root as antispasmodic [an agent which relieves or eases muscular spasms, cramps or convulsions]
Valerian root as aromatic [a substance having an agreeable odor and stimulating qualities]
Valerian root as calmative [an agent that has a mild sedative or tranquilizing effect]
Valerian root as carminative [an agent for easing griping pains, colic and expelling gas from the intestines]
Valerian root as diuretic [an agent that increases the volume and flow of urine which cleanses the urinary system]
Valerian root as expectorant [an agent that promotes the discharge of mucous and secretions from the respiratory passages]
Valerian root as nervine [an agent that has a calming or soothing effect on the nerves, any agent that acts on the nervous system to restore the nerves to their natural state]
Valerian root as relaxant
Valerian root as sedative [a soothing agent that reduces nervousness, distress or irritation]
Valerian root as stimulant [an agent that excites or quickens the functional activity of the tissues giving more energy]
Valerian root as tranquilizer (without any sluggish effects on the user

3.1.6.Folk Use: Used as a nervine, antispasmodic, and stomachic. Used to treat emotional and mental problems including hysteria and hypochondria. Used for migraines, insomnia and depression. Seems to intoxicate cats. Used for nervousness, convulsions, and unruly children. Used for bruises, coughs, croup, fevers, epilepsy. Is analgesic and antibacterial. Soothes the central nervous system, increases heart action and temperature, stimulates circulation.

3.1.7.Tradition: In the 13th century the Pied Piper of Hamelin was thought to have really rid the town of rats by rubbing himself with Valerian as cats and rats find the smell irresistible.

3.1.8.Spirit Use of Valerian: in purification baths,in spells of love ,to get fighting couples back together

3.1.9.Traditional formulas: Alfalfa and Yucca combination, Scullcap combination, Valerian and Black Cohosh combination, White Willow combination, White Willow and Valerian combination

3.1.10.Insomnia:

Valerian is a popular treatment alternative to benzodiazepines (such as diazepam and alprazolam) and other commonly prescribed medications for sleep problems because it is considered to be both safe and gentle. In studies of animals and people, valerian has demonstrated mild sedative and tranquilizing activity, as well as the ability to relieve anxiety. Generally, studies have shown that valerian reduces the time it takes to fall asleep and improves the quality of sleep itself. Plus, unlike many prescription sleep aids, valerian may have fewer after effects the next day, such as morning drowsiness. In addition, although not studied scientifically, some experts use valerian for sleep disturbances related to feelings of depression.

Known for its calming effect, valerian is used orally for insomnia and associated conditions such as anxiety-induced headache, nervousness or nervous stomach. It is believed that valerian works in ways similar to the prescription drugs in the benzodiazepine class by increasing the body's supply of a neurotransmitter known as gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA). Neurotransmitters are chemicals that carry messages from nerve cells to other cells. One of GABA's effects is to regulate nerve cells so they do not activate too often. Both valerian and benzodiazepine drugs may increase GABA production, decrease its re-absorption, and/or interfere with its break down. Unlike benzodiazepines, though, valerian may not have as much residual hangover effect on physical or mental functioning.

Several small studies involving humans have been conducted to test the effectiveness of valerian compared to placebo (sugar pills) and to prescription and non-prescription sleep aids. Most of the results show that valerian has some value for both insomnia and anxiety. However, these studies had very small sample sizes; they used many different doses of valerian; and they varied widely in both the length of time valerian was taken and the methods utilized to determine the results.

Although valerian is not usually applied topically, it may occasionally be added to bath water. Inhaling the vapor from the warm water is thought to help relieve nervousness and induce sleepiness. Similarly, shredded valerian root may be put into simmering water so the steam can be inhaled as a relaxant.

3.1.11.Valerian Root Safety

Valerian root is considered safe for consumption when used appropriately.

Side effects: A few people experience mild stomach upset with valerian root use. A very small percentage of people are actually stimulated by valerian root. This may be due to differences in the method of valerian root preparation or dosage, or whether valerian root was prepared from fresh or dried valerian root material. It is most likely a matter of individual (idiosyncratic) reactions to valerian root, the same factor that makes synthetic sleep aids and other drugs ineffective for some people. Valerian root extracts made from fresh valerian root are generally considered to be the highest quality. Traditional Chinese medicine holds that valerian root's warming energy is inappropriate for extroverted, "yang" people who become further heated by valerian root and therefore energized.

Contraindications: Do not take valerian root before driving or operating machinery.

Drug interactions: Valerian root may potentiate the effects of alcohol and other sedative drugs.

3.1.12.Precautions

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, contain active substances that can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a practitioner knowledgeable in the field of botanical medicine.

The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) gives valerian a class 1 safety rating, which indicates that it is a safe herb with a wide dosage range.

Nevertheless, some people have a "paradoxical reaction" to valerian. This means that instead of feeling calm or sleepy, they suddenly feel nervous, anxious, and restless after they take valerian and may experience palpitations (a feeling of a racing heart).

There is also some evidence that in cases where valerian has been used over a long period of time, serious withdrawal symptoms may occur when it is stopped abruptly.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding are advised against using valerian and, because of its tranquilizing effects, valerian should not be used while driving, operating heavy machinery, or engaging in other activities that require alertness. Also, some warn against use if you have liver disease because of a few reports of liver damage when valerian was used in combination with skullcap, another herb used for anxiety.

Even though no reports of harm to a developing fetus or an infant have been linked to the use of valerian by pregnant or lactating women, laboratory studies have shown that it has some mutating effects on cells. Therefore, it should be avoided during pregnancy and breast-feeding.

3.1.13.Major Side Effects:

Extremely rare cases of liver damage have been associated with taking valerian, although the exact cause of the damage is unknown. Contaminants or substances other than valerian may have been involved. Liver damage can take years to develop. If you take valerian, inform your doctor so that your liver function can be monitored periodically. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience:

Excessive fatigue
Extreme widespread itchiness
Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Pain or swelling in the upper right part of the abdomen
Yellowing of the skin or the white parts of the eyes

Case reports of valerian overdoses in up to 20 times the recommended dose have shown reversible effects such as:

Abdominal cramps
Chest tightness
Inability to control muscles
Very low body temperature
Less Severe Side Effects

The more common side effects of valerian generally are mild and temporary. They may include:
Daytime drowsiness
Excitability
Headache
Insomnia

In a few instance, taking valerian has also been associated with:
Dry mouth
Stomach upset
Vivid dreams

In recommended doses, valerian could cause some residual drowsiness and intense dreams. For some people, it may produce a contradictory stimulating effect, which may even include insomnia, instead of relaxation.

Valerian is much safer than prescription sedatives. However, as with any relaxant, one should not take it before doing tasks that require full alertness, nor should one use it regularly for an extended period of time (more than a few weeks). For unknown reasons, a small minority may find valerian stimulating instead of calming. Valerian is not contraindicated during pregnancy or lactation, however it should not be given to children under age 12. The documented CNS depressant activity of valerian may potentiate existing sedative therapy.

3.1.14.Role For Anti-Aging:

Valerian is very effective in promoting sleep, and has a much better safety record than prescription sleeping pills. Valerian helps to relax mind and body, provide temporary relieffrom anxiety and calms nervous stomach. Researchers are trying to pinpoint which compound or compounds are responsible for valerian¡¯s sedative effects. Many extracts are now standardized for valerenic acid, which may interact with receptors for GABA, the calming brain chemical. In vitro and animal studies have also found that valerian can fight certain bacteria and protect against experimentally induced liver necrosis, however these effects have not been confirmed in humans. In recent years, preliminary cell culture studies raised health concerns about the safety of long-term use of concentrated valerian extracts. Long-term studies, however, have not found valerian to be toxic.

3.1.15.Interactions with Prescription Drugs

When valerian is used with prescription drugs that promote sleepiness, the effects of the drug may be exaggerated, resulting in daytime drowsiness or mental confusion. Prescription drugs that can cause sleepiness include:

Anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine (Tegretol), phenytoin (Dilantin) and valproic acid (Depakote)
Barbiturates such as phenobarbital
Benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), and diazepam (Valium)
Drugs for insomnia such as zaleplon (Sonata) and zolpidem (Ambien)
Tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline, amoxapine, doxepin, and nortriptyline

Because it is broken down by certain enzymes in the liver, valerian may possibly interfere with the use of prescription drugs that are processed by the same enzymes. Some of these drugs are:

Allergy drugs such as fexofenadine (Allegra)
Antifungal drugs such as itraconazole and ketoconazole
Cancer drugs such as etoposide, paclitaxel, vinblastine or vincristine
Drugs for high cholesterol such as lovastatin

Interactions with Non-prescription Drugs

The sleep-producing effects of over-the-counter products like diphenhydramine can be enhanced by taking valerian at the same time. Diphenhydramine is contained in many over-the-counter sleep aids as well as in some cough and cold products, therefore caution should be used when taking these medications with valerian because excessive drowsiness may result.

Interactions with Herbal Products
Valerian may cause excessive sedation if taken with other sedating herbs such as:

Catnip
Hops
Kava
St. John's wort

Interactions with Foods:

No interactions between valerian and foods have been reported, but drinking alcohol at the same time as using valerian internally may result in increased drowsiness.

Because it promotes sleepiness, valerian can increase the sedation associated with certain prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs, other dietary supplements, and alcohol. Be careful when using it at the same time as you are taking drugs for anxiety, colds and coughs, epilepsy, or insomnia. Many other medications cause drowsiness, so check with your doctor before taking valerian with any prescription, non-prescription, or herbal product.

Valerian can also interfere with the way the body breaks down drugs in the liver. You should discuss your other medications with your doctor or pharmacist before you begin to take valerian.

3.1.16.Valerian Dosage

Valerian root can be used as a tea, tablet, capsule, or tincture. If you are using valerian root for sleep, take the following dose 1 hour before bed. The valerian root dose can be divided in half for daytime anxiety, and valerian root can be used in combination with other calming herbs such as skullcap, lemon balm, or chamomile. Valerian root may take 2 to 4 weeks to improve mood and sleep patterns in some individuals.

Note: When making valerian root tea, be sure to keep the pot covered to prevent the therapeutic volatile valerian root oils from escaping. If you are a bath lover, you can brew a very strong pot of valerian root tea and add it to the warm bath water. (Just be careful not to fall asleep in the tub!)

Standardized extract: 30 to 400 mg of valerian root daily
Tincture: ? to 1 teaspoon of valerian root daily
Capsules / tablets: 300 to 500 mg of valerian root daily
Tea: 1 to 2 cups of valerian root tea daily

Note: Different batches of valerian may differ considerably in strength and in the amounts of contamination with material from similar-looking plants that grow in the same areas as valerian.

Today, dried valerian is most often sold in combination herbal products because its smell is considered to be unpleasant. To make it more acceptable and also to enhance its sleep-producing effect, valerian is often mixed with a sweet herb such as catnip or peppermint that may also have some sedative effect. Valerian is also available as a single herb in a number of oral forms including capsules, liquids, tablets, and powders for tea. The liquid forms may be mixed into beverages or foods to mask the smell as well as valerian’s bitter taste. If you decide to use valerian, follow the directions on the package of the product that you purchase.

In studies of valerian's effectiveness in treating insomnia, 400 mg to 900 mg of valerian were taken once a day, usually one to 2 hours before bedtime because it can take up to 2 hours to produce sleepiness. In addition, valerian may not reach full effectiveness until it has been taken regularly for several weeks.

For anxiety, general recommendations are that valerian doses of 200 mg to 400 mg may be taken up to four times a day.

Because the activity and strength of valerian preparations can vary significantly from one product to the next, it is recommended to select a standardized product (0.5-1.0% valerenic acids) whenever possible and to follow the directions on the particular product. As a general guideline, approximately 250-500mg of a 5-6:1 extract can be taken before bed (as a sleep aid) or as needed as a mild tranquilizer.

Therapeutic Daily Amount:

Valerian is sold in capsules, tinctures, and extracts; it is frequently combined with other calming herbs (like kava) in natural insomnia remedies. Valerian root has an unpleasant smell, so many people prefer the odor-free capsules to liquid remedies. An average dose is 100 to 200mg of valerian extract standardized to contain 0.8 to 1.0% valerenic acid.

Maximum Safe Level:

Not established, however, a woman who swallowed forty to fifty capsules of powdered valerian containing 470 mg each (approximately 20-times the recommended dose) in a suicide attempt suffered no longterm ill-effects.
3.2.Different cases and statistical analysis:



4.Stimulants,Fashion,and the perspective world:


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. Is used topically for wounds, ulcers, and eczema. Laboratory tests show antitumor activity. Compound leaves are rich in minerals. The roots stimulates phosphate release in nearby plants. Do not take large doses or continuously.

Sleep Tea Formulas
Equal parts of:
Chamomile
Valerian
Mint

Use 1/2 to 1 tsp. of mix to cup of boiling water. Steep 10 minutes and drink just before bedtime.

Formula 2
Equal parts of:
Lemon Verbena
Lemon Peel
Valerian.

Make same as above.

Tranquility Tea
Mix together 1 teaspoon each of:
Mistletoe
Passionflower
Chamomile
Valerian

Pour 2 cups of boiling water over herbs and steep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink. Add honey and lemon to taste.

Valerian extracts improves sleep without causing drowsiness during the day

A medicinal plant maintains its value, even in comparison with synthetic drugs
For patients who have difficulty in getting off to sleep, many doctors prescribe synthetic drugs of the benzodiazepine group. The main advantage of these drugs is their rapid and reliable action. Unfortunately, this advantage is overshadowed by unwanted and sometimes even dangerous side effects. Valerian, on the other hand, calms over-stimulated nerves, stabilises the patient¡¯s mood, and promotes sleep without any such risks. Its efficacy has been confirmed by modern medicinal plant research in numerous studies.
After a ¡°chemical sleep¡± many people wake up next morning with a hangover, and not infrequently their capacity to react is still impaired on the next day by the so-called ¡°rebound phenomenon¡±. Among the consequences are misjudgements by vehicle drivers and falls caused by uncertain gait. Moreover, chemical hypnotics carry considerable risks of causing dependence and addiction. The use of phytopharmaceuticals containing valerian presents a different situation. The results of several controlled clinical studies carried out in the last few years have now become available. Extracts of valerian root not only display confirmed therapeutic efficacy, but also seem to offer an alternative to synthetic products which is virtually free from side effects.
A few examples:
In a randomised, double-blind, comparative clinical study carried out by the research group headed by M. Dorn from Elz, 75 patients with sleep disorders were treated either with oxazepam (belonging to the benzodiazepine group) or with a standardised valerian root dry extract. Sleep quality improved significantly in both groups, in the oxazepam group by 0.73 points and in the valerian group by 0.83 points. Fifty-five percent of the patients in the valerian group and 70 percent in the oxazepam group assessed the efficacy of the medication as ¡°very good¡± or ¡°good¡±. Conclusion: the results point to equal efficacy from valerian extract and oxazepam, given in adequate dosage.
Marianne Albrecht and her colleagues from the research group for traffic safety in Cologne performed a controlled double-blind study to ascertain the effects of a tranquillising remedy of plant origin ¨C derived from extracts of valerian and melissa (balm) ¨C on alertness, powers of concentration and reaction time in traffic. The result: in contrast to benzodiazepines, the phytopharmaceutical did not cause any measurable impairments of motor or mental functions. Even under the influence of alcohol, such effects are not to be expected from the phytopharmaceutical product (reported in ZFA 16, Volume 71, 20.8.1995: 1215-1228).
The working group headed by J. Kuhlmann and W. Berger of the Association for Interdisciplinary Medical Research (IMF) in Cologne performed a double-blind study in 102 healthy volunteers to investigate the effect of valerian. They found definite impairment of reaction time in subjects who had received flunitrazepam. Valerian extract, on the other hand, had no adverse effect on fitness to drive even after it had been in use for some time.
However, patients who are receiving treatment with valerian root extracts must be made aware of one important difference from synthetic drugs: the effect of the plant remedy is not immediate, but may take a few days before it is felt.
This documentation contains the following contributions:

1. Insomnia: dry extract of valerian has proved to be an effective treatment option
A randomised, double-blind study comprising 121 ambulant patients, carried out IN the Clinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at the Evangelical Hospital Elizabethstift in Darmstadt.

2. A valerian-melissa combination in high dosage improves sleep quality.
A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study comprising 68 patients, carried out at the Central Institute for Spiritual Health in Mannheim.

3. The efficacy of valerian root dry extract for sleep disorders is equivalent to that of oxazepam.
A double-blind comparative study comprising 75 patients, carried out by the research group headed by M. Dorn, Elz.

4. Valerian-melissa extract has no adverse effects on road safety, nor does it potentiate the action of alcohol.
An experimental investigation in 54 subjects, carried out by the Research Association for Traffic Safety in Cologne.

5. Valerian: even when taken for long periods, has no effects on reaction time or powers of concentration.
A double-blind study comprising 102 subjects, carried out by the Association for Interdisciplinary Medical Research in Cologne.

6. Valerian root extract: l-hydroxypinoresinol has a strong affinity in-vitro for the 5-HAT 1A receptor.
An experimental investigation by the Institute for Pharmaceutical Biology of the University of Marburg.

7. Monograph: Valeriana radix (Valerian root)
The monograph of Commission E of the Federal Health Office published in the Bundesanzeiger (Official Gazette) No. 90 of 15.5.1985 and corrected in the Bundesanzeiger No. 50 of 13.3.1990.
5.All the relations of subject and market
5.1.General Scope Description:


General Description:

Valerian is an extract from the underground stem and root of Valeriana officinalis, a plant that grows in temperate regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. Valerian has been used as a sedative for more than a thousand years. Today, valerian continues to be used as a treatment for anxiety and insomnia. It also helps to alleviate headaches, and intestinal and menstrual cramps.
5.2.Different cases and statistical analysis:



6.Potential or possible opinions and its form and formations:



7.Exchangeable place or time competition:competitive ability of substitution



8.Subject or scope for and as engineering science of subject:



9.Some basic engineering rules of subject accordingly:



10.Arithmetic from function:



11.Engineering of form variation accordingly:




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