Effect of postharvest handling on valerenic acids content of fresh valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root.

摘要

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a medicinal herb and the roots and rhizomes are used as a sedative. This study examined the impact of washing and drying on the valerenic acid concentration in valerian roots. The valerenic acid content of roots that were washed, soaked or cut prior to drying was not significantly different from that of whole valerian roots that were dried without washing; cutting decreased drying time. Results indicated that valerian growers can separate or soak roots prior to washing and can store fresh roots before drying without affecting the valerenic acid content. The authors recommend drying under ambient conditions or at the lowest possible temperature to market valerian with the highest medicinal quality.