Quininae Valerianas. Quinine Valerianate




By decomposing Quinine Sulphate by Ammonia, combining directly with Valerianic Acid, and crystallizing from a cold solution.


White, or nearly white, pearly, lustrous, triclinic crystals, having a slight odor of Valerianic Acid, and a bitter taste. Permanent in the air.


In 100 parts of Water, and in 5 parts of Alcohol.

Dose, 1 to 30 gr.; .06 to 2.00 gm.

Zinci Valerianas. Zinc Valerianate

Zn(C5H9O2)2+2H2O =302.56.


From hot solutions of Zinc Sulphate and Sodium Valerianate; evaporate and Zinc Valerianate crystallizes out.


White, pearly scales, having the odor of Valerianic Acid, and a sweetish, astringent and metallic taste. On exposure to the air it slowly loses Valerianic Acid.


In about 100 parts of water, and in 40 parts of Alcohol.

Incompatibles. - All acids, soluble carbonates, most metallic salts and vegetable astringents.


Action Of Valerian And The Valerianates

Neither valerianic acid, ammonium, ferric, sodium, quinine nor zinc valerianates are known to have any action although their extensive use warrants the belief that they are valuable remedies.

Valerian itself acts in virtue of its volatile oil, which has the same properties as other volatile oils. Valerian is therefore an irritant when applied externally; internally it stimulates the mouth, stomach, and intestines; consequently it increases the appetite and the vascularity, the secretion, and the peristaltic action of the stomach, and intestines; and in its excretion, which takes place chiefly through the bronchial mucous membrane, kidneys and genito-urinary mucous membrane, it excites the flow of fluids excreted through these parts. Acting reflexly from the stomach, it stimulates the circulation rather more powerfully than most volatile oils.

Therapeutics Of Valerian And The Valerianates

Preparations of valerian, or still better the oil not official, 2 to 5 m., .12 to .30 c.c. suspended in mucilage with cinnamon water, are often given as carminatives in cases of flatulence, and as reflex stimulants in fainting, palpitation, etc. Valerian and the valerianates sometimes relieve neuralgia, and they are often prescribed for hysteria and other neurotic conditions, but frequently without benefit.