Valerianae Indicae Rhizoma, I.C.A. Indian Valerian Rhizome.
Related entry: Valerian rhizome
Indian valerian consists of the dried rhizome and rootlets of Valeriana Wallichii, DC. (N.O. Valerianeae), a herbaceous plant indigenous to the temperate Himalayas. The drug occurs in short, irregular pieces about 5 centimetres long, and 6 to 12 centimetres in diameter, marked with transverse ridges and bearing numerous, prominent, circular tubercles, to some of which on the under surface, thick rootlets are attached. The upper surface bears the remains of leaves. The rhizome is hard and tough; internally, it is greenish-brown in colour. The odour is powerfully valerianaceous.
Constituents.—The chief constituent of Indian valerian is the volatile oil; this probably contains esters of valerianic acid, which gradually decompose, yielding the acid. Resin and free valerianic acid also appear to be present.
Action and Uses.—This drug closely resembles valerian root in its properties, and is official in India and the Eastern Colonies for use as a carminative and antispasmodic. An ammoniated tincture of Indian valerian is prepared.
PREPARATION.
- Tinctura Valerianae Indicae Ammoniata, I.C.A.—AMMONIATED TINCTURE OF INDIAN VALERIAN.
- Indian valerian, in No. 40 powder, 20; oil of nutmeg, 0.31; oil of lemon, 0.21; solution of ammonia, 10; alcohol (60 per cent.), 90. Macerate for seven days, and complete the maceration process. Ammoniated tincture of Indian valerian is official in India and the Eastern Colonies for use in place of Tinctura Valerianae Ammoniata. Dose.—2 to 4 mils (½ to 1 fluid drachm).
