Page 134 - Pharmacognosy-II (06-PG 303)

• Uses
-Modern interest is focused on its use as a sedative and hypnotic (main
current use is for insomnia => useful alternative to benzodiazepine drugs.
-Valerian extracts appear to have some affinity for the GABA
(benzodiazepine) receptor.
-Recommended for epilepsy (but not supported by research) =>valproic
acid—an analogue of one of Valerian's constituents, valeric acid—is used
as an anticonvulsant and mood-stabilizing drug.

Contraindications
• CNS-depressant activity of valerian may potentiate existing sedative
therapy.
• Intake of valerian preparations immediately (up to 2 hours) before driving
a car or operating machinery is NOT RECOMMENDED

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