Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract, also known as Spikenard Root Extract, is derived from the roots of the plant Nardostachys jatamansi, which belongs to the Valerian family (Valerianaceae).
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is a flowering plant native to the Himalayas of Nepal, India, and China.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and perfumery, particularly in Ayurvedic and Unani systems, due to its aromatic and therapeutic properties.
CAS Number: 90064-28-1
EINECS Number: 290-089-4
Synonyms:Nardostachys jatamansi extract, 90064-28-1Nardostachys jatamansi, ext.;Nardostachys jatamansi, Extrakt.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract, also called nard, nardin, and muskroot, is a class of aromatic amber-colored essential oil derived from Nardostachys jatamansi, a flowering plant in the honeysuckle family which grows in the Himalayas of Nepal, China, and India.
The oil has been used over centuries as a perfume, a traditional medicine, or in religious ceremonies across a wide territory from India to Europe.
Historically, the name nard has also referred to essential oils derived from other species including the closely related valerian genus, as well as Spanish lavender; these cheaper, more common plants have been used in perfume-making, and sometimes to adulterate true spikenard.
The name nard is derived from Latin nardus, from Ancient Greek νάρδος (nárdos).
This word may ultimately derive either from Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract, or from Naarda, an ancient Assyrian city (possibly the modern town of Dohuk, Iraq).
The "spike" in the English name refers to the inflorescence or flowering stem of the plant.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is a flowering plant of the honeysuckle family that grows in the Himalayas of Nepal, China, and India.
In bloom, the plant grows to about 1 meter (3 ft) in height and has small, pink, bell-shaped flowers.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is found at an altitude of about 3,000 to 5,000 m (9,800 to 16,400 ft).
Its rhizomes can be crushed and distilled into an intensely aromatic, amber-colored essential oil with a thick consistency.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is used as a perfume, an incense, and in Ayurvedic practices.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract contribute to the major portion of the volatile compounds, with the eponymous jatamansone (also known as (-)-valeranone) being dominant. Many coumarins are also present in the oil.
The alkaloid actinidine has been isolated from the oil, and valerenal alongside valerenic acid (formerly called nardal and nardin respectively).
Among the other phytochemical products are found in the rhizomes are: nardostachysin, a terpenoid ester; nardostachnol; nardostachnone; jatamansic acid and jatamansinone.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract lists several species of nardus used in making perfume and spiced wine: Indian nard, a stinking nard called 'ozaenitidos' which is not used, a false nard ('pseudo-nard') with which true nard is adulterated, and several herbs local to Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean which are also called nardus, namely Syrian nard, Gallic nard, Cretan nard (also called 'agrion' or 'phun'), field nard (also called 'bacchar'), wild nard (also called 'asaron'), and Celtic nard.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is the only species Pliny mentions which he does not describe when listing the species of nard in book 12 of Natural History suggesting it is synonymous with another species, probably with the species Pliny refers to as 'hirculus', a plant Pliny attests to growing in the same region as Gallic nard and which he says is used to adulterate Gallic nard. Both are widely assumed to be cultivars or varieties of Valeriana celtica.
These are known for their calming and sedative effects.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract are similar to those found in Valerian and are associated with anti-anxiety and sedative properties.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract a key bioactive compound that contributes to the extract's neurological and sedative benefits.
Two sesquiterpene lactones responsible for the extract’s antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and sedative properties.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has been used to promote relaxation, alleviate stress, and improve sleep quality due to its calming properties.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is traditionally used to reduce anxiety and mild depression by promoting a sense of calm and mental clarity.
In Ayurvedic medicine, it is believed to enhance cognitive function and is used to treat neurological disorders like epilepsy, convulsions, and hysteria.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is used to relieve headaches and migraines, often by applying it topically or consuming it in medicinal formulations.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has been traditionally used to support cardiovascular health, helping to lower heart rate and blood pressure by calming the nervous system.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is used to treat gastrointestinal issues like indigestion, bloating, and flatulence.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful in treating skin conditions like rashes, irritation, and inflammation.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has antimicrobial and healing properties that are beneficial for treating wounds, cuts, and skin infections.
Due to its antioxidant properties, it is sometimes used in anti-aging skincare products to prevent oxidative damage, reduce wrinkles, and improve skin elasticity.
In traditional medicine, it is used to promote hair growth, treat dandruff, and reduce scalp infections.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is believed to strengthen hair and add shine.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has a rich, earthy, and musky scent, making it a valuable ingredient in aromatherapy oils and perfumes.
It is often used to induce calm, reduce stress, and improve emotional well-being.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has a long history of use in spiritual and religious rituals.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract was used as an anointing oil in ancient times and is still used in meditation and spiritual practices to promote peace and focus.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has strong antimicrobial properties, which makes it useful in treating skin infections, minor wounds, and fungal infections like athlete’s foot and ringworm.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is used in some formulations to combat fungal infections and maintain skin health.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is sometimes used to treat respiratory problems like asthma, bronchitis, and colds.
It may help clear nasal passages and reduce inflammation in the respiratory system.
In traditional medicine, Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is used to regulate menstruation and alleviate menstrual cramps, particularly in Ayurvedic treatments.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body, contributing to overall health and wellness.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is being explored for its potential therapeutic applications in treating modern ailments, such as neurodegenerative diseases (like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s), due to its neuroprotective and antioxidant properties.
Research is ongoing to better understand its efficacy in contemporary medicine.
Some individuals may be allergic to Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract, which can cause skin rashes or irritation when applied topically.
As with many herbal remedies, the safety of spikenard root extract during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well studied, so it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before use.
Since Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has sedative properties, it may enhance the effects of sedative medications or interact with drugs that affect the nervous system, so caution is advised when combining it with other treatments.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is a source of a type of intensely aromatic amber-colored essential oil, spikenard.
The oil has, since ancient times, been used as a perfume, as a traditional medicine, and in religious ceremonies.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is also called spikenard, nard, nardin, or muskroot.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is considered endangered due to overharvesting for folk medicine, overgrazing, loss of habitats, and forest degradation.
Uses Of Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract:
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has been used in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality due to its calming and sedative properties.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is used to alleviate anxiety, stress, and depression by calming the nervous system.
It is believed to balance mental and emotional health.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has neuroprotective properties and is traditionally used to treat neurological disorders such as epilepsy, hysteria, and convulsions.
The extract can be applied topically or consumed to alleviate headaches, migraines, and joint pain due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
In traditional medicine, spikenard is used to regulate menstruation and reduce menstrual cramps, acting as a natural emmenagogue (stimulating menstrual flow).
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for treating skin conditions such as rashes, irritation, and acne.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has antimicrobial properties that help prevent infections and promote healing of wounds, cuts, and minor skin infections.
The antioxidant content in spikenard root extract helps reduce wrinkles, improve skin elasticity, and prevent oxidative damage, making it beneficial in anti-aging skincare products.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is traditionally used to stimulate hair growth, treat dandruff, and improve scalp health.
It strengthens hair and adds shine, making it a popular ingredient in natural hair oils and treatments.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is widely used in aromatherapy for its calming and grounding effects.
Its earthy and musky fragrance helps reduce stress, tension, and anxiety.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has been used in religious and spiritual rituals for centuries, especially in anointing and meditation practices, to promote a sense of peace and focus.
Its aroma is believed to balance emotions, alleviate anger or sadness, and promote inner peace.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is traditionally used to treat respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and colds.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract helps clear nasal passages, reduce inflammation, and ease breathing.
It acts as a natural expectorant, helping to clear mucus and phlegm from the respiratory system.
The antimicrobial properties of spikenard extract make it effective for treating skin infections, preventing bacterial and fungal growth, and promoting wound healing.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is useful in treating fungal infections such as athlete’s foot and ringworm, providing a natural remedy for skin fungal issues.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is traditionally used to improve digestion, reduce bloating, and relieve flatulence.
It has been used to treat indigestion and other gastrointestinal issues.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is known to prevent gas formation and ease digestive discomfort.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has calming effects on the cardiovascular system, helping to reduce heart rate and blood pressure, making it beneficial for overall heart health.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract may help reduce inflammation in blood vessels, promoting better circulation.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is known for its ability to induce restful sleep.
It helps treat insomnia and other sleep disorders by calming the mind and body.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract promotes deeper, more restorative sleep, which can benefit those with chronic sleep issues.
Due to its neuroprotective properties, spikenard root extract is being studied for its potential benefits in treating neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Emerging research is looking into its potential to enhance cognitive function and prevent memory loss.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is believed to help balance emotions, alleviate feelings of sadness, grief, or anger, and promote emotional healing.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is often used in meditation and spiritual practices for emotional stability and clarity.
Traditionally, Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has been used to deepen spiritual awareness and connection, making it a common oil in religious rituals and meditative practices.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract has been used as a natural insect repellent due to its strong aroma and potential insecticidal effects.
Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract is a safer alternative to chemical repellents.
Safety Profile Of Nardostachys (Spikenard) Root extract:
When applied topically, spikenard root extract can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Symptoms may include redness, itching, swelling, or a rash, particularly in people with sensitive skin or those allergic to plants in the Valerian family.
In rare cases, inhalation of the essential oil or strong fumes from the extract in aromatherapy may lead to respiratory irritation, coughing, or shortness of breath in sensitive individuals.