Asaroon | Mushk Bala | Indian Valerian | مشک بالا | اساروں

The rhizome of Indian Valerian is a safe, non-addictive sedative and also has anodyne, antiinflammatory, antispasmodic, aromatic, astringent, brain tonic, calmative, carminative, deobstruent, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, hypnotic, hypotensive, nervine, relaxant, restorative, stimulant and stomachic properties and is prescribed as a remedy for anxiety, mental strain, hysteria, hypochondriasis, nervous unrest, lack of concentration, excitability, and emotional troubles and problems of menopause. It was first recommended for insomnia by Galen. Valerian reduces mental over-activity and nervous excitability, helping people who find it hard to ‘switch off’. It is beneficial for almost any stress-related condition, and, in general, has a calming, rather than directly sedative, effect on the mind. It is sometimes referred to as a “daytime sedative” because it can improve performance, concentration and memory during the day as well as help one to sleep better during the night. Many symptoms of anxiety, including tremors, panic, palpitation and sweating, can be relieved with Valerian. It is a useful remedy for insomnia, whether caused by anxiety or overexcitement. It is also useful in premenstrual tension. It also gives relief in muscle spasms and lowers blood pressure caused by stress and anxiety. Also useful in liver disorders and strengthens the cerebro-spinal system.
Experiments in Italy and Germany conducted for the past 15 years have found that valerian preparations are also effective in treating children with psychomotor agitation (hyperactivity) and behavioral disorders. In fact, in these children, it enhanced motor coordination and maintained reaction time, while calming anxiety and fears, curing restlessness and curbing aggression.
It is also used as a carminative. The drug contains a group of monoterpenic derivatives, known as valepotraites which are useful as tranquillisers and sedatives. The essential oil of the root and rhizome have antibacterial properties.
Some researchers have compared Valerian Root to benzodiazepines such as Valium™. However, Valerian is a much milder and safer sedative. Unlike Valium™, Valerian is not addictive or does not promote dependency. And Valerian’s sedative effect is not significantly exaggerated by alcohol and barbiturates (unlike Valium™), and also has not been linked to any birth defects (again, unlike Valium™). Valerian is also a smooth muscle and skeletal relaxant. It reduces hypertension due to stress and reduces pain from shingles.