Valerian Root Extract

What Is Valerian Root Extract?

Valerian root extract is a concentrated form of the active compounds found in the roots of the Valeriana officinalis plant, commonly known as valerian. Valerian, a perennial herb indigenous to Europe and Asia, has been employed in traditional medicine for centuries due to its therapeutic properties.

The extraction process involves obtaining the bioactive components from valerian roots using ethanol extraction or steam distillation methods. The resulting extract contains various compounds, including valerenic acid, valepotriates, and volatile oils.

Valerian root extract is well-known for its potential soothing effects. It is often used as a natural remedy for promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep quality. It is believed to interact with specific receptors in the brain, affecting the levels of neurotransmitters such as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) that play a role in regulating sleep and anxiety.

In addition to its soothing properties, valerian root extract may also have mild analgesic (pain-relieving) and antispasmodic (muscle-relaxing) effects. It has been used to alleviate symptoms of conditions such as insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, and mild muscle tension.

Common Bulk Valerian Root Powder Extract Specifications

Here are possible purities for bulk pure Valerian Root Powder Extract.

1. Valerian Root Powder Extract 98%  pure Valerenic Acid
2. Valerenic Acid 99% pure powder (extracted from Valerian Root Extract )

What Is The Source Of Valerian Root Extract?

Valerian root extract is derived from the roots of the Valeriana officinalis plant. Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and parts of Asia. It has a long history of traditional use in herbal medicine.

The valerian plant grows up to two meters in height and features clusters of small, fragrant flowers. However, the underground parts, particularly the roots, extract the bioactive compounds.

The extraction process involves harvesting the valerian roots and subjecting them to steam distillation or solvent extraction methods to obtain the concentrated valerian root extract. The extract contains various active compounds for its potential therapeutic effects, including valerenic acid, valepotriates, and volatile oils.

It’s worth noting that there are different valerian species, and Valeriana officinalis is the most commonly used species for medicinal purposes. Other species, such as Valeriana wallichii or Valeriana jatamansi, may also be used in specific regions or traditional practices.

Valerian root extract is used in various forms, including capsules, tinctures, and teas, as an ingredient in dietary supplements or herbal remedies.

What Active Ingredients Can Extract From Valerian Root?

Valerian root extract contains several active compounds contributing to its potential therapeutic effects. Some of the key active ingredients found in valerian root extract include:

1. Valerenic acid: Valerenic acid is one of the primary active constituents of valerian root extract. It is believed to interact with specific receptors in the brain, including GABA-A receptors, which regulate anxiety and sleep. Valerenic acid is associated with the soothing effects of valerian.
2. Valepotriates: Valepotriates are another group of compounds found in valerian root extract. These compounds have been shown to possess sedative and anxiolytic properties. While their precise mechanisms of action are still being studied, they are believed to contribute to valerian’s overall relaxation and calming effects.
3. Volatile oils: Valerian root extract contains volatile oils, contributing to its odor. These oils contain various compounds, including bornyl acetate, isovaleric acid, and other sesquiterpenes. These volatile oils are thought to have mild sedative and muscle-relaxant effects.

What Is Valerian Root Powder Manufacturing Process?

The manufacturing process of valerian root powder typically involves the following steps.

1. Harvesting: Valerian plants are typically harvested when the roots are at their peak potency. The seeds are carefully dug up, ensuring minimal damage to the plant and preserving the active compounds.
2. Cleaning: After harvesting, the valerian roots are thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, debris, or impurities. This step helps ensure the purity of the final product.
3. Drying: The cleaned valerian roots are dried to reduce moisture content and preserve the active compounds. The drying process can be implemented through various techniques, including air drying, low-temperature drying, or dehydration. Care is taken to avoid excessive heat or prolonged exposure, which can degrade the active ingredients.
4. Grinding: Once the valerian roots are thoroughly dried, they are ground into a fine powder. Grinding helps break down the hearts into smaller particles, increasing the surface area and aiding in the extraction of active compounds. Specialized grinding equipment, such as hammer mills or pulverizers, may be used.
5. Sieving and Packaging: The valerian root powder is typically sieved to remove any larger particles or impurities, ensuring a consistent and uniform product. After sieving, the powder is packaged into suitable containers or packaging materials, ensuring it is protected from moisture, light, and air, which can degrade the quality of the powder. Proper labeling and storage instructions are provided on the packaging.