Valeriana officinalis (valerian)

Abstract Valeriana officinalis (valerian) is a perennial flowering plant found in Europe and Asia. From ancient time, this plant has been used as a medicinal herb. It is well known for its sedative and antispasmodic effects worldwide. Valerian root tea is famous for its sleep-inducing effects. There are many natural chemicals present in the root, stem, and leaf of V. officinalis plant. In the present scenario the demands of herbal products are growing exponentially throughout the world. For Alzheimer disease (AD) treatment, there are many medicinal plants being used to enhance memory. Some medicinal plants used for the treatment of AD are Withania somnifera, Curcuma longa, Convolvulus pluricaulis, V. officinalis, Centella asiatica, and Nardoastachys jatamansi. Valerian is available as whole powdered root and aqueous or ethanolic extract. In AD patients, valerian is used for relaxation, sleep-promoting, and neuroprotective effects.