Jatamansi is an herb that has been around for centuries. This herb which is also know by the names True spikenard, Biblical spikenard and Muskroot, is found growing only in the Himalayan Mountains. It has been used in countries around the world including India, Greece, Arabia, and Egypt for a variety of reasons, and is considered holy or divine in many of those regions still today.

Traditionally Jatamansi has been used to treat headaches, restlessness, heart palpitations, convulsions, menopausal symptoms, insomnia, kidney stones, jaundice, blood impurities, gas, digestion, and to stimulate hair growth, improve complexion, and increase strength.

How does Jatamansi Work?

The effects of Jatamansi are similar to those of Valerian root. Jatamansi contains sesquiterpene valeranone, which has sedative properties. This chemical is also found in active valerian root. Unlike Valerian however, Jatamansi is said to provide a wakeful and alert sedation, and mental stimulation.

Is Jatamansi an Effective Sleep Aid?

There is no real concrete evidence to suggest the effectiveness of Jatamansi at promoting sleep and easing the symptoms of insomnia. This herb has been used for many many years around the world, so this may be a good indication that it is indeed beneficial.

There has been little scientific evaluation and testing done to prove the effectiveness of Jatamansi at not only treating insomnia, but also at treating the other conditions and ailments for which it has been traditionally used.

Side Effects

There are no know side effects that occur when taking Jatamansi. However there is also no clear indication for dosage so use this herb with caution. One of the types of chemicals found in Jatamansi, called coumarins, can be poisonous in certain quantities.

Final Word on Jatamansi

As I mentioned earlier Jatamansi has been used for years all around the world to provide relief from a number of conditions including insomnia. You might ask how something could be used still today if it was not effective? Indeed it certainly may be very effective at combating symptoms of insomnia, but it also may be around still simply out of tradition or habit.

There is no clear evidence to suggest that Jatamansi does or doesn’t work, so it definitely may be worth trying out. This herb in its supplement form is fairly inexpensive and readily available at health food stores, although this may change in the near future due Jatamansi being recently listed as a critically endangered plant with many new rules and restrictions being implemented on how it can be cultivated.

I would proceed with caution if you decide to take Jatamansi because there have not been a lot of studies or research preformed to get a clear view of the possible benefits or side effects that may be associated with its use. Like I mentioned earlier, one chemical contained in Jatamansi has been shown to be poisonous in certain quantities. You will want to monitor your intake of this herb carefully to prevent any negative reactions.