title: The biological activity of Valerian and related plants.
abstract: A comprehensive review of the constituents of the Valerianaceae is presented with particular reference to the sedative activity of extracts from various constituent species. The sedative activity can be ascribed to the valepotriates present and to a lesser extent to the sesquiterpene constituents of the volatile oils. Recent research into the toxicology of the valepotriates is also considered.
authors.affiliation: Chelsea Department of Pharmacy, King's College London.
authors.forename: P J
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Houghton
mesh_terms: D000470:Alkaloids / Q000032:analysis; D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000494:pharmacology; D009822:Oils, Volatile / Q000032:analysis; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000494:pharmacology; D010946:Plants, Medicinal / Q000032:analysis*; D014632:Valerian / Q000032:analysis*
chemical_list: D000470:Alkaloids; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives; D009822:Oils, Volatile; D010936:Plant Extracts