A narrative review of botanical characteristics, phytochemistry and pharmacology of Valeriana jatamansi jones

Valeriana jatamansi Jones (family Caprifoliaceae) is a small perennial herb with multiple pharmacological activities for centuries. This review focuses on the elaborate analysis of Valeriana jatamansi Jones regarding botanical characteristics, phytochemistry and pharmacology. Valepotriates and flavonoids are the major bioactive compounds mainly isolated from the roots/rhizomes. Both the major chemical constituents and different extracts of Valeriana jatamansi Jones are shown to possess the neuroprotective, antidepressant, anti-tumor, gastrointestinal, cytotoxic, anti-virus, antioxidant, sedative and other activities. This review could be helpful to provide a strong bolster for a promising natural resource of drugs for the treatment of various diseases and a long term development in exploring highlighted area. Crude plant of Valeriana jatamansi Jones contains various compounds and a wide range of pharmacological activities. However, further studies are warranted to illuminate the mechanisms responsible for these activities at the molecular levels. Moreover, novel methods and technology should be utilized to explore more components with latent bioactivitities.