Phyto-chemical variation in gynodioecious Valeriana jatamansi Jones

Abstract

Valeriana jatamansi Jones syn. Valeriana wallichii DC (popularly known as Indian Valerian in English, Sugandhbala or Mushkbala in hindi and Tagar in Sanskrit) is an important medicinal and aromatic plant belonging to family Valerianaceae. The species is a source of group of compounds known as valepotriates, which are responsible for sedative and tranquilizing activity of Valerian preperations. Dynamics of valepotriates (valtrate, acevaltrate, didrovaltrate, IVHD Valtrate) production in underground parts during different growing seasons in female and bisexual plants were aimed during present investigation. Phytochemical analysis using HPLC revealed that valtrate is the major compound followed by didrovaltrate, IVHD valtrate and acevaltrate. The total valepotriates content ranged between 1.019% to 1.852% in rhizomes, 1.193% to 1.829% in roots and 1.094% to 1.801% in rootstock during different months of growth in both sex types i.e female and bisexual plants. Valtrate (%) and acevaltrate (%) were recorded significantly higher in rootstock of female flowering plants in comparison to bisexual flowering plants. Higher content of valepotriates were recorded during September month after rainy season.