Valerian root: medicinal properties and contraindications. Valerian rhizomes with roots - official instructions for use

Valerian is a perennial plant in which, over several years, rhizomes and roots are formed that accumulate biologically active substances. More than 100 different components are isolated in the roots and rhizomes, which determine the beneficial properties and provide the therapeutic effect of the drugs.

Dried valerian rhizome with thin roots

Valerian root is used in folk and traditional medicine for nervous tension, sleep disorders, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, hypertension and some other diseases. However, the beneficial properties of the root are often overestimated, and possible harm for health are not taken into account. At the same time, preparations based on valerian, including those prepared at home, have a number of contraindications and side effects. In addition, when making products at home great importance have the quality of the collected raw materials and the conditions for their storage.

Valerian tends to accumulate in the body, so its effect does not appear immediately, but later certain time. To benefit from the medicine, it is very important to use it correctly and not to overdose, because in this case the effect of taking valerian can be exactly the opposite of what was expected.

What does valerian root look like?

The rhizome and roots of valerian are the underground part of the plant, providing water and mineral components to the above-ground organs. It is in the roots that nutrients accumulate that provide a healing effect. Valerian rhizomes are located vertically. They reach 2-4 cm in length and no more than 3 cm in width. The core of the rhizomes is loose with transverse partitions.

Numerous thin roots extend from the rhizome in different directions. They have a smooth surface and break easily. The roots are usually located horizontally. Their width ranges from 1 to 4 mm, and their length is 10-20 cm.

The photo below shows what freshly dug up and washed rhizomes with valerian roots look like:

On a note

A rhizome is a modified shoot perennial plants, which is underground but shallow from the surface. As a rule, it grows away from the stem. The main function of the rhizome is to accumulate substances necessary for the plant. Leaves, buds and adventitious roots may emerge from the rhizome. Roots are vegetative organ plant, which performs the functions of fixing the plant in the soil, its nutrition, reproduction and other functions.

On the outside, the roots and rhizomes are light brown in color, but on the inside it can vary from yellow to brown.

The photo below shows what the underground part of the plant looks like in cross-section:

After drying, the weight of rhizomes decreases by 75%, and their color becomes darker. Also, dried raw materials become more fragile and begin to emit a strong specific odor. This is what it looks like in the form in which it is used to prepare medicines:

Collection and preparation of rhizomes

Valerian officinalis loves warm and moderately humid climates. IN wild conditions it grows on the edges of forests, near rivers, lakes and swamps in the temperate and subtropical zones of Europe. Some related species are also common in dry regions; they can be found in the steppes and on mountain slopes. Valerian does not form large thickets, but grows among other plants.

When harvested, valerian can easily be confused with hemp grass, meadowsweet and some other plants.

For example, the photo below shows a bush of valerian officinalis:

Here is hemp sapling:

And here is meadowsweet:

You can distinguish plants by carefully looking at the leaves, inflorescences and flowers. Valerian has wide cylindrical stems, branched at the top, and opposite leaves, while meadowsweet has thin stems and intermittently pinnate leaves. A noticeable difference is the color of the stems. Valerian has only green stems, while meadowsweet has branched stems that can take on a pinkish tint, as can be seen in the photo:

A characteristic feature of the window sill is the lack of branching of the stems. That is, if valerian and meadowsweet have “twigs”, then the leaves of the sill grow from the main stem. They also have a significant difference - the leaves are covered with small villi, which is why they seem fluffy and soft to the touch. As you can see in the photo, thanks to the even, erect stems, the window sill gives the impression of a neatly growing bush.

These three plants also differ in their inflorescences. Valerian has small, tubular, 5-petalled flowers that form corymbose or paniculate inflorescences of white or Pink colour. Meadowsweet flowers are also small, but six-petalled, mostly white. Other shades of this plant are rare. At first glance, the flowers may seem almost identical, but if you look closely at the photographs of valerian and meadowsweet inflorescences, the differences will become obvious.

The window sill does not produce flowers, but small flower baskets of light or deep pink color, as in the photo:

Window flower baskets are collected at the top of the stem into corymbose inflorescences. The baskets emit a light aroma similar to vanilla. The inflorescences of valerian and meadowsweet do not have such a smell.

The characteristic features of valerian rhizomes are their vertical position and a strong smell. Meadowsweet rhizomes are located horizontally, and meadowsweet rhizomes are located vertically, and in appearance they are very similar to valerian, but do not have its characteristic smell. If rhizomes of other plants were included during the collection process, they can be easily recognized during the drying of the raw materials. The well-known valerian smell is present only at its roots, while other plants do not have it.

On a note

On Latin valerian has a name Valeriana officinalis. This is the official name of the plant, although valerian is often popularly referred to as cat root, aromatic root, maun and shake grass.

Valerian is grown on plantations to make medicines. Cultivated plants have twice as many rhizomes as wild plants. Valerian is grown from seeds that are sown before the onset of winter or in early spring. It does not require special care and takes root well, so it can also be grown in garden plots. Since the plant is moisture-loving, valerian grows best on black soil and dried peat bogs. Increases root yield correct application fertilizers

Valerian plantation in Ukraine

Rhizomes and roots of wild valerian are collected in the first half of autumn, when the seeds fall off. If necessary, rhizomes of cultivated valerian can be collected in early spring, before the development of the above-ground part of the plant begins. With the advent of grass and flowers, the number useful substances decreases in the roots.

In wild conditions, the plant is completely dug up and the entire root is cut off. When growing at home, you can cut off part of the root, leaving the bush to grow further. By the new harvest season, the rhizomes grow again. In young plants that are less than two years old, you can cut off a third of the rhizome, in older plants - two thirds.

After collection, the raw materials are shaken off the ground, the remaining herbal part is removed and washed.

After washing, the roots and rhizomes become white.

You can dry the rhizomes whole. First, valerian is hung in the shade outside for several days to dry out. Then they are laid out indoors on flat surface for complete drying. Every 1-2 days, the raw materials need to be mixed so that they do not rot and begin to rot. To speed up the process, you can use special dryers, but the temperature in them should not exceed 40 degrees. During drying, the raw material darkens and acquires a richer odor.

As a rule, after withering, the roots are cut off from the rhizomes to make the raw material more compact.

Dried valerian can be stored in a dry dark place in tight cardboard boxes or glass jars with lids for approximately 3 years. If stored in linen bags, the essential oil will evaporate quickly and valerian will lose some of its useful properties. For storage, the rhizomes can be left whole, crushed or even ground into powder, depending on how they will be used in the future. The ground root can be infused with alcohol and stored in the form of a tincture. It is important to choose the right ratio medicinal raw materials and alcohol.

What are the benefits of valerian root?

In the chemical composition of the roots and rhizomes of valerian there are more than 100 various components. Most biologically active substances contained in essential oil, the amount of which in dried raw materials ranges from 0.5 to 2%. The most significant components are isovaleric acid, borneol, bicyclic monoterpenes, tannins, polysaccharides, saponins, valepotriates and alkaloids.

Valerian contains 10 different valepotriates, which provide a slight antispasmodic effect of the drugs. Alkaloids, resins and some other substances have a sedative effect on the central nervous system. The ability of valerian to dilate blood vessels and influence coronary circulation is provided by glycosides and borneol. Organic acids provide a choleretic effect. Also, the plant extract contains many macro- and microelements: iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, potassium, selenium and others. At long-term use Valerian selenium and iron can accumulate in the body.

It is important that only the roots and rhizomes of the plant have medicinal properties. Its shoots and inflorescences are not used in medicine.

Valerian leaves practically none medicinal value don't represent

On a note

There are many versions of why valerian has this name. According to one of them, the word “valerian” comes from the word “valere”, which in Latin means “to be healthy”.

Most pronounced pharmacological properties Valerian is a mild sedative and hypnotic, and to a lesser extent an antispasmodic. Valerian has all these effects indirectly, through its effect on the central nervous system. It also affects the functioning of the heart and promotes the dilation of coronary vessels, which improves coronary circulation and reduces blood pressure.

Pharmacological properties of valerian:

• Sedative - reduces central nervous system excitability nervous system;
• Sleeping pills – normalizes sleep, speeds up falling asleep;
• Antispasmodic – weakens spasms of smooth muscle organs;
• Antihypertensive – lowers blood pressure;
• Choleretic - enhances bile secretion and glandular apparatus of the gastrointestinal tract.

Valerian has low biological activity, its effect appears only after full course treatment when a sufficient amount accumulates in the body active ingredients. In this regard, the drug is most often prescribed in complex therapy, as an additional means.

Use of valerian in medicine

Valerian is included in many medications, homeopathic remedies and dietary supplements. Valerian extract is produced in tablet form and in the form of a tincture, which is prepared on the basis ethyl alcohol. Valerian is also included in soothing herbal teas and complex preparations.

One of these complex preparations containing valerian and motherwort

In traditional medicine, valerian is used as a mild sedative and hypnotic for sleep disorders and nervous overstrain. It is also sometimes prescribed in the complex treatment of certain diseases of the nervous, cardiovascular systems and digestive tract.

Valerian is used for:

• Sleep disorders and insomnia;
• Psycho-emotional stress;
• Antispasmodic pain in the digestive tract;
• Spastic conditions of smooth muscle organs;
• Hypertension;
• Coronary circulation disorders;
• Some diseases of the liver and biliary tract.

The advisability of using valerian in the treatment of the above diseases has been scientifically confirmed. However, its drugs are prescribed only in complex therapy. It is not recommended to use it as the main medicine, since when treating serious illnesses The effectiveness of valerian is negligible.

Due to its properties, valerian has found wide application in folk medicine. It is used for weight loss, treatment of migraines, gastritis, stomach ulcers, diseases of the eyes, skin, organs respiratory system, for neurological pain, seizures and even epileptic seizures. However, the effectiveness of valerian in the treatment of such conditions has not been scientifically proven and is only speculative.

In traditional medicine recipes, valerian is often used together with other medicinal herbs. For example, a collection from the rhizomes of valerian, St. John's wort, mint and chamomile is used as an anti-inflammatory agent. An infusion of valerian with dill seeds and honey is used to cleanse the blood vessels of the brain. Valerian with cumin, wormwood, millennial and calamus rhizomes is prescribed for the treatment of chronic gastritis.

Although such preparations have been used in folk medicine for a very long time, there is no scientific evidence of their effectiveness. In addition, valerian has quite a lot of contraindications and side effects, therefore, like any medicine, it should be taken carefully and only as prescribed by a doctor and after carefully reading the instructions for use of the drug.

How to use raw materials at home

Various valerian preparations can be purchased at almost any pharmacy, and their prices are usually low. However, you can prepare a medicine from the roots and rhizomes of the plant at home.

Dried rhizomes can be crushed and made into a decoction for drinking. To do this, the raw materials are poured with boiling water and infused or boiled a little. Description of the technology for preparing the decoction different recipes may vary.

You can also grind the raw materials into a fine powder and add alcohol. At proper preparation This tincture can easily replace the pharmacy one. Prepare a tincture in a ratio of 1:5, that is, add 50 grams of ethyl alcohol to 10 grams of ground valerian root (approximately 2 teaspoons). The product should be infused in a closed glass container for 2 weeks.

Homemade valerian tincture.

Along with other herbs, dried valerian roots are sometimes added to scented pads. They are placed inside or under the main pillow for calming before bed. Valerian has a distinct odor, which is one of the components that provides its therapeutic effect. Due to its essential oils and scent, valerian affects the central nervous system, helping to calm down and fall asleep.

On a note

Valerian essential oil is used in perfumery. The essence extracted from the rhizome has a distinct woody smell. It is added to cosmetical tools along with essential oils of cypress, pine and lavender to give them forest notes.

Valerian decoction can also be added to the bath. The beneficial substances of the plant can be absorbed in small quantities through the skin. Sometimes it is recommended to add valerian to the bathing water of infants if the babies behave restlessly. The amount of the drug in water should be minimal. Valerian is contraindicated for children under 3 years of age, so it should not be used without indications or a doctor’s prescription.

Valerian is also used in cosmetology. It is believed to help cleanse the skin and improve its condition. A decoction of rhizomes can be used for washing or added to homemade masks.

Valerian is considered a fairly safe natural sedative and hypnotic. However, like any medicine, it has a number of contraindications and side effects. Valerian is not recommended for pregnant and lactating women, children under 3 years of age, people with hypotension, atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, inflammatory diseases kidneys, liver, intestines and some other diseases.

You should drink valerian only as prescribed by your doctor in recommended doses. Maximum single dosage is 2 tablets or 30 drops of tincture, and the daily dose is 6 tablets and 100 drops, respectively. The course of treatment with the drug can last on average from 7 to 28 days, after which the use is stopped or taken a break.

Valerian Forte, also called yellow valerian due to the color of the tablets

Exceeding a single dosage or taking the drug for a long time can cause an overdose. This increases the risk of side effects. Valerian can cause drowsiness, apathy, and disturbances in work digestive system. Also, if used incorrectly, drugs can have the opposite of expected effects. They can provoke nervous overexcitation, insomnia, increased blood pressure and impaired heart rate. Therefore, it is necessary to take valerian, including as part of home remedies, after consultation with a doctor and with full justification for such use.

Interesting video: how to prepare valerian roots

Rules for the preparation and use of valerian

Valerian has been known since ancient times. It was used as a mind cleanser, fragrance, and relaxant. Nowadays, valerian is used in both traditional and folk medicine. All parts of the plant have medicinal properties, but most of the beneficial substances are concentrated in the root. Healing herb It has virtually no contraindications and is approved for use even by small children over 1 year of age.

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  Biological description of the plant

  Valerian officinalis is a herbaceous perennial belonging to the Honeysuckle family. The erect, arched, grooved stems are from 1.2 to 1.8 m in height. Their branching occurs closer to the top, where the inflorescence is located. One valerian bush consists of several stems. Pinnately dissected leaves can be alternate or form whorls of 3–4 pieces.

  The grass has a thick and short rhizome up to 4 cm long, no more than 3 cm thick. Most often it is hollow or has a loose core structure with partitions. Numerous roots, called stolons, up to 12 cm long and up to 3 cm in diameter, are directed in different directions from the rhizome; they are often separated from the rhizome and have a strong aromatic odor. They are used to prepare medicinal extract and an essence with a pronounced spicy taste.

  Small flowers up to 4 mm in diameter, white, pale pink or pale purple, have a funnel-shaped corolla with a five-lobed curve. Bisexual flowers are collected in paniculate inflorescences. Flowering of the plant begins in the second year of life and continues throughout the summer. The plant produces fruits in the form of achenes, which ripen from August to September.

  The Mediterranean is considered the birthplace of valerian. It grows in areas with temperate and subtropical climates; in Russia it is found in the European part of the territory. The grass prefers to grow in lowland meadows, in wetlands, and is found in peat bogs. Valerian is found along the banks of reservoirs and on forest edges. It is grown on plantations for the needs of the pharmaceutical industry.

  

  Medicinal properties of valerian rhizome

  Unlike others medicinal herbs, valerian does not have a main, pronounced active ingredient. All parts of the plant have medicinal properties, but in folk medicine the roots and rhizomes of the plant are most often used. It is in them that most of the essential oil is concentrated, containing about 100 active ingredients that have a positive effect on the body.

  Valerian essential oil contains the following substances:

  • macro- and microelements;
  • tannins;
  • alkaloids;
  • ketodes;
  • vitamins;
  • saponins;
  • alcohols;
  • organic acids and other useful components.

  Most often the plant is used as an antispasmodic and sedative. Valerian also has a healing choleretic effect and stimulates gastrointestinal secretion. Preparations created on the basis of valerian extract dilate coronary vessels well.

  

  Dried valerian root

  The main indications for the use of drugs with valerian are diseases of the nervous system: for insomnia, to relieve attacks of hysteria, for epilepsy, neuralgia, cardiac neuroses. Products with valerian are useful for relieving spasms, headaches and migraines, reducing blood pressure and relieving angina attacks.

  Some valerian-based drugs, such as Valocordin or Cardiovalen, are prescribed together with other sedatives to extend their validity period. This treatment should not be used in children, as it slows them down. mental development and causes a state of apathy.

  

  Use of valerian preparations for women

  For women, medications with valerian are prescribed to be taken during menopause to relieve fatigue and normalize sleep. They relieve irritability and improve overall well-being. Pregnant women are prescribed to take valerian in the form of tablets to relieve nervousness, as well as for cramps. Valerian tincture is contraindicated during pregnancy.

  Women can take medicinal product, according to the instructions for use, in the form of tinctures, decoctions, in tablet form. If it is impossible to take the medicine in the form suggested, it can be replaced with a warm, relaxing bath with a decoction of valerian roots.

  

  Use of valerian for children

  Valerian is prescribed to children for various nervous diseases, hyperactivity, apathy towards food, stomach cramps and intestinal tract. However, due to the powerful sedative effect, it is not recommended to take the drug without a doctor’s prescription or to exceed the dosage prescribed by a specialist. This causes depression in the child, allergic rash, drowsiness, developmental delays and digestive disorders.

  Children under 1 yearGiving valerian preparations is strictly prohibited.

  Children over 1 year old can be given no more than 1 drop of diluted tincture. When the child reaches the age of 2 years, the amount of the drug is increased to 2 drops and then according to the same scheme.

  The effect of valerian preparations on men

  The medicinal plant has an effect on men only with positive side helping to reduce the intensity of spasms muscle tissue, relieve exacerbation of cardiovascular diseases, avoid nervous tension and overexcitability. Negative Impact valerian preparations for men sexual function consists only of drowsiness and a decrease in nervous excitability, which causes a natural decrease in attraction to the opposite sex.

  Harvesting plant roots

  Experienced herbalists advise collecting valerian roots in the fall, after the foliage turns brown and the seeds fly off. During harvesting, you need to be very careful not to confuse the brown rhizomes with the roots of other plants.

  Having dug up the roots, they are cleared of soil and thoroughly washed with running water. For several days, the raw materials are dried with access to fresh air, and final drying is carried out in the attic or in the oven, setting the temperature no higher than +40 degrees. Prepared rhizomes are stored in dark glass or wooden containers, separately from other plants.

  Homemade medicine recipes

  At home, medicines are prepared from the roots and rhizomes of valerian in the form of decoctions, infusions and alcohol tinctures, which are useful for treating many diseases. Drug recipes:

  Name	Preparation	Application
  Infusion of valerian roots and rhizomes	Grind 10 g of dried roots and add 200 ml of boiling water. Simmer for 15 minutes in a water bath, then leave to brew for 2 hours and cool. After this, strain	Taken to normalize sleep and heartbeat, to eliminate vomiting and the consequences of vegetative neuroses. Take 1 tablespoon 4 times a day
  Decoction of dried valerian roots	Grind 10 g of dry plant root to a particle size of 3 mm and pour 300 ml cool water. Heat the mixture in a water bath for half an hour, cool and strain	The decoction is used to treat vegetative neurosis, relieve seizures, stress, and normalize sleep. Drink the product three times a day, half a glass.
  Decoction of fresh valerian rhizomes	It is prepared in the same way as a decoction of dried roots. Ratio of fresh raw materials and water 1:5	Used to treat neurasthenia and vegetoneurosis; to normalize sleep, take half a glass three times a day
  Infusion of roots (1 option)	1 tbsp. l. crushed roots are poured with 1 cup of boiling water, placed in a thermos and left for 8 hours. Strain before use	The drug is useful for the treatment of tachycardia and chronic circulatory disorders in the coronary vessels. Drink 3 times a day. In the first 15 days, consume 1/3 cup, then 15 days, 2 tbsp. l., then 1 month 1 tbsp. l. After this, take a break for a month and take the course again
  Infusion of roots (2 option)	1 dessert spoon of chopped raw materials is poured with 1 glass of boiling water and left to brew in a tightly closed container for 6–8 hours. Then the finished infusion is filtered	The drink is used to treat heart neuroses, skin rashes, including urticaria, eczema, neurodermatitis and psoriasis. The product is taken 1 tablespoon 3 times a day
  Infusion of roots (3rd option)	1 teaspoon of chopped rhizomes is poured into 200 ml of boiling water and heated in a water bath for 1.5 hours. After cooling, filter and add the volume of liquid to 1 glass with cold water.	The product is useful for the treatment of migraines, eliminating gastrointestinal spasms, painful menstruation and when you feel unwell during menopause. The drink is consumed warm, half a glass in the morning and evening. To improve the taste, you can add a little honey
  Decoction for taking a bath	Add 3 liters of boiling water to 100 g of raw material and leave to brew for 2 hours. Then strain and pour into warm bath water	It is useful to take such a bath at night, it has a slight calming effect, relieves muscle tension, tension, relieves the effects of stress, normalizes sleep and makes you healthier night rest. Take a bath half an hour before going to bed. This procedure is also allowed for children.
  Valerian root tincture	Place 50 g of chopped valerian rhizomes in a dark glass jar or bottle and add 500 ml of high-quality vodka. Place in a dark place for 10 days. Shake contents daily	The tincture is useful for calming the nervous system, relieving headaches and stress. It does not cause strong sedative effects. The finished tincture is taken in an amount of 20 to 30 drops 3 times a day
  Recipe 5 tinctures	This recipe uses ready-made tinctures purchased at the pharmacy. Tinctures of valerian, hawthorn, motherwort, peony and the drug Corvalol are mixed in equal quantities. The mixture is poured into a dark glass bottle	The resulting medicine effectively calms the nervous system, relieves heart pain and improves heart function, eliminates spasms of the stomach and intestines, and normalizes digestion. Start drinking the medicine with 12 drops, diluting the drug into 50 ml warm water. Every day the amount of the drug is increased by 2 drops, bringing total up to 40 drops. The course of treatment ranges from 25 to 35 days

Latin name Valeriana officinalis L.

In Russia, among the population, valerian is more often known as maungmyun, cat root, cat grass. She received such names because of the inexplicable, at first glance, attraction of cats to her. This plant makes them strong excitement. How can one explain such strange behavior animals? It turns out that valerian roots contain isovaleric acid, which is part of feline sex pheromones - special odorous substances secreted by cats during the mating season specifically to attract cats.

Family Valerianaceae - Valerianaceae

Healing properties Valerians have been known to people since ancient times. Doctors already knew about the calming effect of the plant. Ancient Greece and Rome. Dioscorides (1st century) believed that it was capable of controlling thoughts, and Pliny the Elder classified it as a means of stimulating thought; Ibn Sina believed that it strengthens the brain. In the Middle Ages in Europe, valerian was revered as one of the most popular aromatic products. People like her talk about it popular names, like incense, earth incense, forest incense. In Russia, valerian is one of the most popular medicinal plants. Even under Peter I, the industrial collection of its roots for hospitals began.^

Description

This is perennial herbaceous plant with a short vertical rhizome bearing numerous cord-like roots, often with stolons on which daughter specimens are formed.

Root and rhizomes have a strong, distinctive odor. In the first year of life, a rosette of basal leaves develops, in the second - a stem.

Stem erect, ribbed, hollow inside, 0.5-1.5 m tall, simple or branched in the upper part, cylindrical, grooved, glabrous or pubescent in the lower part.

Leaves slender, pair-pinnately divided with 3-11 linear-lanceolate, coarsely toothed leaves. The lower ones are petiolate, the upper ones are sessile. The basal leaves have long, slightly grooved petioles, the apical leaves are sessile.

Flowers small, pale pink, fragrant, collected at the top in thyroid or paniculate inflorescences.

Fruit- flat brown achenes with a tuft 1.5 times their length.

Blooms in May-August and ripens in July-September.

Spreading

Valerian is distributed throughout the European part, it is not found in the Far North and deserts Central Asia. This is a polymorphic species. The most famous botanical forms of valerian are: swamp, brilliant, Volga, shoot-bearing, Russian, tall, doubtful.

Habitats. It grows in a wide variety of environmental conditions: in forest and water meadows, peat bogs, along river banks, in steppes, oak forests, pine forests, in clearings and burnt areas. Cultivated in Eurasia and South America.

However, digging out small roots in dense turf is quite difficult. Therefore, it is easier to grow valerian in culture.
The All-Russian Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants has developed highly productive varieties “Maun” and “Ulyana”.

Growing

Vleriana grows well in moist places, but can also tolerate prolonged drought. The best soils are structural chernozems of light mechanical composition, as well as light loams.

The plant is demanding of soil fertility and moisture. The area should be well lit and sufficiently moist. For autumn digging, add 2-3 buckets of compost or rotted manure and 20-25 g of superphosphate per 1 m2. When stored, the seeds quickly lose their viability and should be used in the year of collection or the next.

Reproduction

Valerian can be sown in three periods: early spring, summer and before winter. The choice of period depends on the availability of free time. In the spring, sowing is carried out at the most early dates, but usually at this time of year all the energy is consumed by vegetable crops and there is no time left for medicinal products. Good results are obtained when sowing at the end of summer with fresh, just collected seeds. Before winter, valerian is sown in the Non-Black Earth Zone at the end of October-beginning of November in pre-made furrows, when the soil is already frozen.
0.5-0.8 g of dry seeds are sown per 1 m2, the depth of their planting is no more than 1 cm. The bed is regularly watered before germination so that the soil is constantly moist. Shoots appear on the 5-7th day. Further care: moderate watering, weeding and loosening the soil. To get large roots if the seedlings are too dense, you can thin out, leaving 10-15 plants per 1 meter of row, and transplant the rest of the plants somewhere. Before the cold weather, valerian manages to form a rosette of basal leaves and a well-developed root system.
In the second year of growing season, fertilizing with nitrogen fertilizers is carried out in early spring. You can also use any fertilizers for flower crops that are currently sold in garden centers. Valerian blooms in June and produces seeds in July. But in order to get large roots, they carry out “topping” - the buds are cut off during budding. In this case, by the end of the second year you can get a good harvest of raw materials.
The seeds ripen slowly, within 30-45 days. As soon as the first ripe seeds appear in the inflorescence, they are cut off with part of the stem, tied into bunches and hung or laid out on a tarpaulin in the attic for ripening.
Advice. It is advisable to place Valerian in damp places near the fence or in the background of a mixborder, where during flowering it will not block anything. You should not place the plant in front of the windows of your home. The flowers have a peculiar smell that not everyone may like.

Care.

Caring for crops consists of weeding, loosening the soil and fertilizing. During drought, moderate watering is necessary. In the second year of life, in the budding phase, peduncles are pinched, which contributes to a significant increase in the yield of rhizomes.

Chemical composition

The roots contain essential oil complex composition, alkaloids: valerine, hatinin, etc., glycosides, tannins, sugars, organic acids.

Active ingredients

The underground organs of valerian contain essential oil (0.5-2.4%), the main part of which is the ester of borneol and isovaleric acid, isovaleric acid, borneol, limonene, camphene, myrtenol, caryophyllene. In total, over 70 components were found in essential oil, many of which are contained in very small quantities. In addition, iridoids, alkaloids, valeopatriates, sugars, and organic acids were isolated.

Medicinal raw materials

WITH therapeutic purpose use rhizomes with roots. Best time For harvesting raw materials of wild valerian - autumn, when the stems turn brown. The dug up roots are cleared of soil, washed in running water without soaking, and laid out in a thin layer in a well-ventilated room for drying; In this case, exposure of the raw materials to sunlight should be avoided.
Attention! Do not dry valerian in a hot dryer. At the same time, the essential oil evaporates, which has a calming effect.

Application

Use in design

Valerian is an excellent ornamental plant. Its flowers not only delight with their beauty, but also attract beneficial insects that protect fruit trees from pests. It can be planted in flower beds and in the form of separate compositions.

Medicinal

Valerian has long been a well-known medicinal plant. Its name comes from the Latin valere - “to be healthy.”

In medicine, aqueous infusion of valerian, mixtures, and preparations from the roots are widely used. These are classic sedatives for states of nervous excitement and neuroses of the cardiovascular system.

Preparations from valerian increase bile secretion and secretion of the glandular apparatus of the gastrointestinal tract.

Application in official and folk medicine

Valerian preparations are prescribed for diseases accompanied by nervous excitement, insomnia, hysteria. The plant is widely used for mild forms of neurasthenia and psychasthenia, for climacteric disorders, vegetative neuroses, neuroses of cardio-vascular system. Valerian preparations reduce the excitability of the central nervous system; the calming effect is slow but stable. In patients, the feeling of tension, increased irritability disappears, and sleep improves. The therapeutic effect of valerian is more effective with systematic and long-term course use, therefore the timing and dosage of drugs is prescribed by the attending physician.
Valerian preparations are prescribed to pregnant women for early and late toxicosis, and also as a sedative for neuroses during menopause.

Valerian is a component of valocormid, valocordin, valosedan, and corvalol.

Use at home

There are many ways to prepare and use this plant. In Russia, hot infusion, tincture and powder of rhizomes with roots are more often used. To prepare the infusion 1 tbsp. a spoonful of crushed raw materials is poured into 1 cup of boiling water, heated in a water bath or in a thermos for 15 minutes, left for 45 minutes and filtered. Take 2-3 tbsp. spoons half an hour after eating. The infusion is stored in a cool place for no more than 2 days.

In Germany, a cold infusion of rhizomes with roots is considered the most effective as a sedative: 1 tbsp. a spoonful of crushed raw materials is poured into 1 glass of cold boiled water, leave for 12 hours and filter. Take 1 tbsp. spoon 3-4 times a day before meals.
The tincture is prepared with 40% alcohol or vodka, in a ratio of 1:5. The roots are pre-crushed in order for extraction to proceed better. Leave for 7 days and filter. Take 15-20 drops 3-4 times a day. To obtain the powder, the raw materials are ground in a coffee grinder to a powdery state, then sifted through a sieve. The sifted powder is inhaled 1 g 3-5 times a day or taken orally 1-2 g per dose 3-4 times a day, washed down with water.

Attention! With prolonged and excessive use of valerian, drowsiness, a feeling of depression, decreased performance and depression of general condition are possible.
In some patients with hypertension, valerian has the opposite (stimulating) effect and disrupts sleep.

Other uses

The use of valerian for cosmetic purposes is quite diverse and is based in most cases on its antibacterial and soothing effects. It is used for dermatitis, especially of nervous origin.

In the composition of medicinal raw materials - valerian rhizomes with roots , which contains essential oils (the main part is the ester of borneol and isovaleric acid), borneol, valeric acid, a number of organic acids, tannins, alkaloids (hatinin and valerin), sugars, and other active ingredients.

Release form

Valerian rhizomes with roots are produced in the form of crushed raw materials, as well as powder.

The product can be contained in packs from 30 to 100 g, and is also sold in filter bags of 1.5 g, 10 or 20 such bags are placed in a cardboard pack.

Raw materials are collected in early spring or autumn. The crushed raw materials contain pieces of rhizomes and roots different shapes with a pronounced aroma. The decoction has a bitter-sweet, spicy taste.

pharmachologic effect

Valerian root has a sedative and antispasmodic effect on the body, reducing the level of excitability of the central nervous system. There is an antispasmodic effect on the smooth muscles of the digestive organs and urinary system.

The drug helps normalize the onset of sleep. In this case, the sedative effect appears gradually and relatively slowly, but is stable.

The drug produces a choleretic effect, activates the secretion of the gastrointestinal tract, and promotes the dilation of coronary vessels. With prolonged use of galenic forms of the drug, a weak hypotensive effect is observed.

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics

There is no exact data on the pharmacokinetics of valerian due to the impossibility of identifying the active principle of the drug.

The therapeutic effect is observed under the condition of systematic and long-term therapy.

Indications for use

The product is used in the following cases:

• at high level nervous excitability;
• at and sleep problems;
• with hysteria, spasms of the digestive organs, liver and renal colic(as part of complex treatment).

Contraindications

Valerian root should not be used during, as well as in the first trimester pregnancy .

Side effects

Some may be noted side effects if valerian root is used:

• depressed state;
• deterioration in performance;
• (with prolonged use);
• (in rare cases).

Instructions for use of Valerian root with rhizomes (Method and dosage)

Instructions for use include indoor application means in the form of infusion. To prepare it, you need to take 6-20 g of plant material per 200 ml of water.

Raw materials should be poured hot water, close the lid and heat in a water bath for 15 minutes. After this, the infusion needs to be cooled, strained, squeezed out and diluted with water so that you end up with 200 ml of the product. The finished infusion should be taken one tablespoon three or four times a day.

You should drink the product half an hour after eating. Children under three years old should take half a teaspoon, children from 3 to 7 years old should take 1 teaspoon of infusion, children aged 7 to 12 years should take one dessert spoon three times a day. The infusion should be shaken before using it.

The use of bags requires that 3 filter bags need to be filled with 100 ml of boiling water and left in a covered container for 15 minutes. Next, you need to squeeze out the bags and bring the volume to 100 ml.

Overdose

If an overdose occurs, the patient may begin to experience symptoms and drowsiness .

At similar symptoms should be taken after gastric lavage.

If necessary, symptomatic therapy is carried out.

Interaction

Valerian preparations enhance the effect of sleeping pills, as well as other drugs that have a depressant effect on the central nervous system.

Terms of sale

You can buy valerian root without a prescription.

Storage conditions

It is necessary to store raw materials in a dark and dry place, out of reach of children. Store the finished infusion in a cool place.

Best before date

Dry valerian root can be stored for 3 years. The prepared infusion can be consumed within 2 days.

special instructions

If the infusion is used for a long time, psychomotor reactions may deteriorate. Therefore, you need to drive very carefully and work with those mechanisms that may pose a danger.

Rhizomes with crushed valerian roots 200 g

Alcohol 70% to obtain 1 liter of tincture

Description. Clear liquid reddish-brown color, characteristic fragrant smell and a bittersweet spicy taste.

Dry residue not less than 3%.

The quantitative content of valeric acid in the tincture is determined by GF X 1 ml OD n. sodium hydroxide corresponds to 0.01021 g of valeric acid, which must be at least 0.2% in the preparation.

Storage. In a well-closed container, in a cool place, protected from light.

Application. Sedative.

Literature:

main:

1. Chueshov V.I. Industrial technology of drugs. - Kharkov: NFAU, 2002. - T. 1. - 560 pp.; T.2. – 472 p.

2. Guide to laboratory classes on factory drug technology under the guidance of Tentsova A.I.

additional:

8. State Pharmacopoeia of the Republic of Kazakhstan. – volume 1 – Almaty. – Publishing house: “Zhibek Zholy”. – 2008. – 592 p.

9. State Pharmacopoeia of the Republic of Kazakhstan. – volume 2. – Almaty. – Publishing house: “Zhibek Zholy”. – 2009. – 792 p.

10. State Fund of the USSR X edition M., Medicine. – 1968.

11. State Fund of the USSR XI edition M., Medicine. – 1987. – volume 1. – 1988. – volume 2.

12. Mashkovsky M.D. Medicines. M.: Medicine. – 2008. – Ed. 15.

13. Milovanova L.N., Tarusova N.M., Baboshina E.V. Manufacturing technology dosage forms. Rostov-on-Don: “Phoenix”. – 2002. – 448 p.

7. Orders of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

8. Technology of dosage forms, ed. L.A. Ivanova. - M, Med., 1991. - 2 volumes - 544 p.

Final control (testing):

Option 1.

1. The composition of herbal preparations includes: (4)

1) only individual active ingredient

2) the amount of active substances

3) ballast substances

4) dyes

5) related substances

2. The rate of molecular diffusion depends on: (4)

1) from atmospheric pressure

2) on the radius of diffusing molecules

3) on temperature and viscosity of the medium

4) on the difference in concentrations at the phase boundary

5) on the interfacial surface area

3. Methods for obtaining tinctures: (1)

4) repercolation

4. What phenomena take place in the process of plant extraction
raw materials: (4)

1) dialysis of the extractant into the cell

2) desorption

3) dissolution of cellular contents

4) diffusion

5) adsorption

5. Static methods of extraction of plant materials include: (2)

1) maceration

2) fractional maceration

3) continuous countercurrent extraction

4) percolation

5) repercolation

6. How much lily of the valley herb is needed to obtain 120 liters of tincture: (1)

7. What methods of obtaining tinctures are regulated by the State Fund of the Republic of Kazakhstan: (4)

1) maceration

2) fractional maceration

3) maceration with forced circulation of extractant

4) vortex extraction

5) percolation

8. Cleaning of tinctures is carried out in the following way: (1)

1) dialysis

2) salting out

3) alcohol purification

4) settling and filtration

5) sorption

9. The quality of tinctures in accordance with the State Fund of the Republic of Kazakhstan is assessed according to the following indicators: (4)

3) dry residue

5) humidity

10. The technological scheme for the production of tinctures using the maceration method consists of the stages: (1)

1) infusion, draining the finished extract, filtering, packaging

2) infusion, draining the finished extract, filtering, evaporation

3) infusion, draining of the finished extract, settling, filtering, standardization, packaging

4) infusion, draining of the finished hood, standardization

5) infusion, evaporation, standardization, packaging

Option 2

1. The mode of settling tinctures in accordance with the State Fund of the Republic of Kazakhstan is carried out: (1)

1) at a temperature of 10-15°C for 2 days

2) at a temperature not higher than 8-10°C, 2 days

3) at a temperature of 2-4°C for 5 days

4) at a temperature of 5-8°C 12 hours

5) at a temperature of 15-20°C for 2 days

2. The speed of the extraction process is influenced by factors: (4)

1) extraction time

2) the presence of mechanical inclusions

3) degree of grinding of raw materials

4) temperature

5) extractant viscosity

3. Methods of purification when obtaining novogalenic preparations are: (4)

1) change of solvent

2) salting out

3) electrolysis

4) liquid extraction
5) chromatography

4. Circulating extraction is: (1)

1) maceration with circulation of extractant

2) extraction in the field of centrifugal forces

H) multiple extraction of the same portion of raw materials with one portion of extractant

4) continuous extraction with mixing of raw materials and extractant

5) extraction of raw materials using RPA

5.Extraction by maceration can be accelerated: (2)
1) dividing the extractant into parts

2) preliminary soaking of raw materials

3) dividing raw materials into parts

4) increasing the infusion time
5) circulation of the extractant

6. Static one-stage extraction methods include: (1)

1) remaceration

2) maceration with circulation of extractant

3) bismaceration

4) fractional percolation

5) maceration

7. Static direct-flow multi-stage extraction methods include: (1)

1) maceration

2) percolation

3) repercolation

4) remaceration

5) fractional percolation

8. Static countercurrent multi-stage extraction methods include: (1)

1) remaceration

2) repercolation

3) repercolation according to Chulkov

4) circulation extraction

5) percolation

9. Dynamic methods include the following extraction methods: (4)

1) percolation

2) circulation extraction

3) maceration

4) repercolation

5) vortex extraction

10. Methods for obtaining tinctures: (1)

1) countercurrent extraction and percolation

2) percolation and accelerated fractional maceration

3) repercolation and circulation extraction

4) repercolation

5) circulating extraction and repercolation