VALERIAN OIL (INDIAN VALERIAN)
Botanical Name:
Valeriana walliichii
Common Name
Indian Valerian
Vernacular Name:
Sugandhawal
Plant Family:
Valerianaceae
Distribution in Nepal:
In central Nepal at altitude of 1,200-3,000 m.
Principal Constituents:
Bornyl acetate, isolvalerate, carophyllene, pinenes, valeranone, borneol, among others.
Description:
Color varies from yellowish-green to pale brown or amber yellow while the appearance is that of a fluid to slightly viscous liquid. The oil has a balsamic-woody, slightly spicy-root-like odor, with a distinct note of valerian acid.
Method of Extraction:
From the dried comminuted rhizomes of Valeriana jatamansi Jones by steam distillation.
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Physiologic Actions (Refer to Glossary for Descriptions):
Anti-rheumatic, Anti-spasmodic, Carminative, Diuretic, Nervine, Relaxant, Sedative, Stimulant
Other Uses:
Benefits the nervous system and useful in treatment of stress-related conditions such as headache, insomnia and nervous tension. Useful in the treatment of circulation, muscles and joints complications and relieves arthritis, inflamed joints, muscular pains, rheumatism, spasms and cramps. Benefits the digestive system and helps improve appetite. Strengthens and tones the nerves and nervous system.
Industrial Uses:
Extensively used as relaxant in various food and non-food products. Also used as flavoring agent in alcoholic (liqueur, beer, etc.) and nonalcoholic (e.g. root beer) beverage, frozen dairy desserts, candy, backed foods.
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Safety Data:
Non-toxic. Non-irritant. Use with care and in moderation.
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GENERAL SAFETY INFORMATION: Caution should be taken when using Essential Oils. Do not use any oils without consultation from a qualified aromatherapy practitioner. All Essential Oils should be kept out of the reach of children.
DISCLAIMER: This information is provided purely for informational purposes only, and does not in any way purport to be medical or prescriptive suggestions. Any reference to medicinal or health benefits is not meant to treat or diagnose any problem and is not meant to replace professional medical advice and should not take the place of any prescribed medication that has been prescribed by a physician.
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LIST OF REFERENCES:
Lawless, J. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils - The Complete Guide to the Use of Oils in Aromatherapy and Herbalism, Element, Shaftesbury, 1995
Medicinal Plants of Nepal, His Majesty's Government of Nepal, Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation, Department of Plant Resources, 6th Edition, Kathmandu, 2001