Tagar
Tagar is a hairy herb that grows in the temperate regions of the Himalayas and Khasia. It’s roots help in reducing anxiety and improving sleep as it relaxes the central nervous system.The botanical name of Tagar is Valeriana wallichii, which belongs to Valerianeaceae family.
It is known with various names like Nat (bended), Vakr (irregular shape), Kutil, Tagarmula, Sugandhbala, Mushakbala and in English, it is commonly known as Indian valerian.The Tagar is leafy, slightly hairy perennial herb, which attains height upto 40-45cm and grows in temperate zones of Himalayas.
Chemical Composition –
Main chemical constituents of tagara are Essential oils. It is also contains valerianine, valerine, actinidine, chatinine, shyanthine, isovaltrate, valtrate, gamma-aminobutyric acid (gaba), isovaleric acid, valerenic acid, acetoxyvalerenic acid, hydroxyvalerenic acid, hesperidin.
Properties –
• Sedative
• Anxiolytic
• Antispasmodic
• Analgesic
• Antibacterial
• Antimicrobial
• Anticonvulsant
Part Used –
Root powder of tagar plant could be used in a dosage of 1-3 gm for medicinal purposes.
How to use?
Tagar can be used in the following ways –
• Tea – can be made by soaking dried roots in boiling water.
• Tinctures
• Fluid extract
• Dry powder
• Powdered tagar can be taken as a capsule, tablet, or tea
Benefits –
• Insomnia
Tagar is useful to induce sound sleep. According to Ayurveda, an aggravated Vata dosha makes the nervous system sensitive which leads to Anidra (Insomnia). Tagar calms the nervous system due to its Tridosha balancing property, especially Vata balancing.
• Anxiety
According to Ayurveda, Vata governs all the movements and actions of the body and nervous system respectively. Anxiety is mainly due to Vata imbalance. Tagar helps to reduce the symptoms of anxiety due to its property of Tridosha balancing (especially Vata) property.
• Arthritis
It works well in arthritis, rheumatic disorders and gout. It can be used in the form of paste to treat swellings and pain in rheumatic joints. It relaxes over contracted muscles so is helpful for shoulder and neck tensions as well.
• Epilepsy
The herb is also known as to have antispasmodic action due to which it is used to treat mild tremors, epilepsy, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, it can also be used to treat milder disorders, such as cases of gastro-intestinal spasms and minor peripheral muscular spasms.
• Menopausal Symptoms
Tagar might help manage menopausal symptoms. It contains certain constituents that are similar to estrogen (female reproductive hormone) that help manage menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness and night sweats.
Side Effects –
Generally, tagar is safe when used for a short period by most adults.
• However, the side effects of tagar include stomach upset, headache, mental dullness, uneasiness and excitability.
• Some people might experience drowsiness in the morning after taking tagar, particularly at higher doses.
• Some people report having a dry mouth or having strange dreams.
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