Tagara or Valerian Wallichi is a hairy perennial herb that has been used widely in traditional medicines for ages, owing to its incredible medicinal and therapeutic properties. It is a kind of valerian, known as Indian valerian, that belongs to the Valerianeaceae family and holds an important place in the Ayurvedic manuscripts. Tagara grows up to 40-45cm in height in temperate regions of the Himalayas from Kashmir to Bhutan. The leaves are pinnate bearing unisexual flowers that are white or slightly pinkish in colour. There are mainly two varieties of tagara -Nighantus Tagara and Pinda Tagara.
Tagara is known by other vernacular names such as Tagar Ganthoda in Gujarati, Mushkabala in Kannada, Tagarai in Tamil, Tagaramool in Marathi, and Sugandha Bala in Punjabi.
According to the sage Charka, Tagara has been categorised as sitaprasamana, which eases the cold sensation of the skin. The root comprises valerianic acid and valepotriates that possess sedative and tranquillizer activity, which is beneficial for relieving stress, anxiety, fatigue, and nervous disorders. The incredible sedative nature of valerian root induces a night of sound sleep, treats insomnia, calms the mind, and regulates blood pressure.
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Medicinal Properties of Tagara
Chaksusya- improves eye health and vision
Sirsa dosaghna- relieves the ailments of the head
Nootropic - boost cognitive health and brain power
Mutrajanan- diuretic and maintain electrolytes balance
Vishaghna–anti-toxin
Vedanasthapana-analgesic
Aksepahara-anticonvulsant
Dipana- good appetizer
Hridaya-cardiotonic and boost heart health
Yakrduttejaka-hepatoprotective that enhance liver functions
Kaphaghna–mucolytic, relieves congestion
Shwashara-bronchodilator, improve lung health
Balya- tonic
Kusta–antileprotic
Jwaragna- anti pyretic
Bhutapasmara nasan-a remedies episode of an epilepsy attack
Ayurvedic Properties
Tagara formulations or churna is known to possess tikta (bitter taste), katu (pungent) and kasaya (astringent) properties. It is well known to pacify Vata and Kapha Dosha.
Health Benefits
Promotes Sleep
Tagara is a proven natural cure for treating insomnia, exerts soporific action on the body and mind that improves the quality of sleep and reduces sleepless nights. This herbal root is one of the best alternative medicines for insomnia treatment, when combined with Jatamansi powder and Ashwagandha powder offers better results.
Potent Neuroprotective
Tagara rhizome extract is credited with possessing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on the brain and enhancing brain sustenance. It serves as an effective nerve tonic and lessens mental stress and exhaustion. This wonder herb prevents oxidative damage of brain cells and is valuable in easing neurodegeneration disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Regulates Blood Pressure
Tagara is known to possess antihypertensive and antispasmodic effects that help to lower blood pressure and alleviates muscle spasms. However, the potent hypotensive activity of Tagara appear with a high dose that is not safe, hence it is blended in some antihypertensive formulations as a supportive medicine.
Treats Asthma
The powerful extracts of Tagara relax and dilate the airways and enhance air passage into the lungs owing to its bronchodilatory activity. The right blend of Tagara root, when combined with Pushkarmool and Kuth helps to mitigate the symptoms of asthma and breathe well.
Remedies Chronic Fever
As per the science of ayurvedic medicine, Vata, Pitta and Kapha dosha become infected during an episode of chronic fever. Lethargy, apathy, fatigue, exhaustion, and debility are some of the common symptoms associated with fever. Tagara powder works incredibly well to combat chronic fever and lessen the symptoms. For the best result, it is taken along with Vasant Malti Ras.
How To Consume Tagara?
Tagara root is a common medicinal plant that is bestowed with health-benefiting properties and used extensively in traditional medicine. It is readily available in capsule and tablet form
Therapeutic Dosage
The dosage of tagara may vary from person to person depending on the age, severity, and health condition. Always seek advice from a certified ayurvedic specialist for the right dosage.
Children: 10 mg per kg body weight
Adults: 250 to 500 mg
Twice daily and to be taken immediately after food.
Side Effects
Tagara powder in low dosage is safe for use for most people, especially in the case of long-term therapy. Some of the side effects include hypotension, hiccup, nausea, vomiting and light-headedness. These side effects are observed when a person takes more than 2000mg of Tagara powder or 600 mg of its rhizome extract in a day. But the tolerated dosage can vary in different people based on their doshas. Kapha prakriti person can tolerate its maximum dosage, while a pitta prakriti person can tolerate up to 500 mg twice daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Benefits Of Tagara In Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, Tagara (also known as Indian Valerian) is a powerful calming herb. Its main benefits include:
Promotes restful sleep.
Reduces stress and anxiety.
Calms the nervous system.
Helps manage insomnia and restlessness.
May support mental clarity by reducing overactive thoughts.
It is classified under "Medhya Rasayanas," which are herbs that nourish the brain and nervous tissue.
When Is The Best Time To Take Tagara?
The ideal time to take Tagara is 30–60 minutes before bedtime. Taking it in the evening helps calm the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep naturally. It can be taken with warm water or as advised by an Ayurvedic practitioner.
What Is The Recommended Dose Of Tagara For Sleep?
For inducing sleep, the Tagara tablet, around 250 mg to 500 mg, is recommended once daily, before bedtime. Dosage may vary based on the form of tablet, powder, decoction and the individual’s health condition. Always follow the dosage prescribed on the product label or consult a qualified Ayurvedic doctor.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile:
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with the knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics, including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
A comparative clinical study on the effect of Tagara (Valeriana wallichii DC.) and Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi DC.) in the management of Anidra (primary insomnia)
E Toolika 1,✉, Narayana Prakash Bhat 1, Suhas Kumar Shetty 1
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4687238/#:~:text=Results%3A,73.95%25%3B%20P%20%3C%200.001).
PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIONS OF VALERIANA WALLICHII (TAGARA): A FUNDAMENTAL
ANALYSIS SUPPORTING TRADITIONAL BENEFITS
Tripti Tyagi1*, Sakshi Sharma2, Rajesh Sharma3
1PG Scholar (Ayu), Department of Dravyaguna, Ayurvedic and Unani Tibbia College and Hospital Karol Bagh, New
Delhi.
