Caprifoliaceae
Spikenard Root
Nardostachys jatamansi
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: Himalayan region (Nepal, India, China), alpine meadows 3000–5000m
Also known as: Indian Nardus, Muskroot, Jatamansi, Himalayan Spikenard
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
RootRhizome
Therapeutic Uses
Insomnia, anxiety, depression, hypertension, palpitations, cognitive decline, epilepsy support. Ancient perfume (biblical Nard/Spikenard) with documented sedative and antidepressant properties.
Herbal Actions
Sedative, adaptogen, antidepressant, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, cardiac tonic
Active Constituents
Sesquiterpenes (jatamansone, nardostachone, valeranone, nardol), flavonoids (acteoside, verbascoside), iridoids, neolignans
Preparation Methods
🏺 Tincture💊 Capsule⚗️ Essential Oil
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 1 tsp dried root per 250ml, simmer 15 min, 2x daily |
| Tincture | 2–4 ml (1:5, 45% ethanol), 2–3x daily |
| Notes | CITES threatened — source cultivated only (not wild). Essential oil: 2–3% dilution for aromatherapy (sedative, antidepressant). Most famous ancient perfume — anointed on Jesus' feet (Gospel). Traditional Ayurvedic medhya (mind-enhancing) herb. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: CITES threatened — cultivated sources only. Avoid in pregnancy. Caution with CNS depressants.
Side Effects: Mild sedation. GI upset. Rare contact sensitization. Generally well tolerated.