VALERIAN DRY EXTRACT
Description
EUROMED valerian extract is a standardized hydroalcoholic herbal extract of the root of Valeriana officinalis L. (Fam. Valerianaceae), a perennial herbaceous plant widely distributed mostly in Europe but also in some parts of South America and Asia. It is nowadays cultivated on a large scale for medicinal use in Europe.
Chemistry
Different compounds are found in valerian:
- kessane derivatives, monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes
- Iridoids, also known as valepotriates, and their degradation products baldrinal, homobaldrinal and valtroxal
- Small amounts of alkaloids as well as amino acids (GABA, thyrosine, glutamine), flavonoids, triterpenes, various minerals and sugars
- Volatile oil
Leading substances for identification and standardization are the cyclopentane-sesqui-terpenes valerenic acid, acetoxyvalerenic acid, hydroxyvalerenic acid and valerenal, as those components are only found in Valeriana officinalis.
Indications
Extracts of ginseng root are used as a tonic for invigoration and fortification in times of fatigue and debility, for declining capacity for work and concentration and also during convalescence.
Contra Indications
Interactions and Side-Effects
Ginseng root extracts are generally well tolerated. No significant toxicity or drug interactions have been reported. However excessive use can lead to sleeplessness, hypertension or other side-effects. Ginseng root extracts should not be taken during pregnancy and in case of an acute illness or hypertension.
Therapeutic Safety
Interactions and Side-Effects
Ginseng root extracts are notable for their particularly high level of clinical safety.