NEUROLOGICAL ACTIVITIES OF TAGARA (VALERIANA JATAMANSI JONES EX ROXB.)

Background: Valeriana jatamansi Jones (Family: Valerianaceae), a high value medicinal plant, is distributed in many countries of Asia. The species has been widely utilized in both traditional and modern medicine, with V. jatamansi being particularly valued for its insect-repelling and anthelmintic properties. Similarly, indigenous systems of medicine, particularly in Asia, have reported neurological activities like neuroprotective, sedative, anxiolytic and neurodegenerative of the species in various ailments. This review highlights on the morphological characters, phytochemical composition, medicinal uses, and pharmacological activities of V. jatamansi along with compilation of neurological activities in various articles. Materials and methods: Journals, articles and various internet publications were referred to compile the relevant information of Tagara (Valeriana jatamansi Jones) and compilation of its various neurological activities. Result and discussion: A comprehensive review of existing literature reveals that V. jatamansi exhibits a broad spectrum of biological activities, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, antitumor, and neurologically beneficial effects such as neuroprotective, neurodegenerative, anxiolytic, antidepressant, and sedative properties. Even though there are reports about the pharmacological action of medicinal plant Tagara (Valeriana jatamansi Jones) in neurological diseases, more clinical based researches are required to substantiate their role in improving the well-being of the patient. Further investigation is necessary to fully understand the molecular mechanisms of V. jatamansi, and continued research efforts can potentially lead to the development of novel, evidence-based therapies for use in contemporary medicine.