Old Medicine South Africa · SAHPRA

GERTGES HEART DROPS 'B

VALERIAN TINCTURE

B1100

What it does

Tincture is a liquid form of medicine that contains a plant extract or other medicinal ingredient dissolved in alcohol or another solvent.

Commonly used for: various ailments, pain relief, anxiety, sleep problems

Read more in plain English ↓

Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.

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Answers come only from this medicine's registration record, BNF monograph and interaction data - not medical advice.

Medicine sourcing is available in Kenya only. We don't sell or dispense medicines - licensed pharmacies do.

Sourcing - Kenya only

Registration & product details

Registration no.
B1100
Registration date
1969/11/27
Expiry date
-
Status
Old Medicine
Active ingredient
VALERIAN TINCTURE
Dosage form
-
Strength
-
Pack size
-
Therapeutic class
-
Manufacturer / MAH
-
Applicant / LTR
Gulf Drug Company (Pty) Ltd
Country of origin
-

Source: South African Health Products Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-15 21:25:10 · updated 2026-10-18 04:01:59

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (South Africa). Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication.

About tincture

Tincture is a liquid form of medicine that contains a plant extract or other medicinal ingredient dissolved in alcohol or another solvent.

What it treats

  • various ailments
  • pain relief
  • anxiety
  • sleep problems

How it works

Tinctures work by allowing the active ingredients from plants or other substances to be absorbed into the body quickly, providing relief from certain conditions.

Who it's for

Tinctures can be used by adults for various health issues, but it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before use.

Cautions

  • • Not suitable for people with alcohol intolerance.
  • • Use with caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women.

AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.

About valerian

Valerian is a natural supplement often used to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.

What it treats

  • insomnia
  • anxiety

How it works

Valerian is believed to work by increasing levels of a calming substance in the brain, helping to reduce anxiety and promote better sleep.

Who it's for

Valerian is typically used by adults who experience difficulty sleeping or feel anxious.

AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.

Clinical monograph: tincture

Tinctures are concentrated herbal extracts made by soaking plant materials in alcohol or vinegar to extract their active ingredients. They are typically used for their therapeutic benefits and can be administered sublingually, added to water, or used topically, depending on the formulation. Tinctures often serve as a convenient way to deliver herbal medicine in a liquid form, allowing for easier absorption and dosage adjustments.

Indications

  • Herbal remedy for anxiety
  • Support for digestive health
  • Anti-inflammatory support
  • Antimicrobial effects
  • Pain relief
  • Support for immune function

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific tincture product instructions for dosage, as this varies significantly based on the plant and concentration.

Adults: Refer to specific tincture product instructions for dosage, as this varies significantly based on the plant and concentration.

Mechanism of action

The mechanism of action of tinctures depends on the specific herbs or plants used in their preparation. Generally, the active compounds extracted from the plant material interact with various biological pathways, including receptor modulation, enzyme inhibition, and antioxidant activity. For example, flavonoids and alkaloids found in many tinctures may exhibit anti-inflammatory, analgesic, or antimicrobial effects through their interaction with cellular signaling pathways.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamics of tinctures is influenced by the specific constituents of the herbal material. These constituents may exert effects such as enhancing or inhibiting neurotransmitter activity, modulating inflammatory responses, or influencing metabolic pathways. The effects can vary widely among different tinctures based on the plant used, the extraction method, and the concentration of the active ingredients.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of tinctures involves absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of the active compounds. After administration, the alcohol or vinegar solvent aids in the rapid absorption of these compounds through the mucosal membranes or gastrointestinal tract. Once absorbed, the compounds are distributed throughout the body and may undergo metabolic transformations primarily in the liver. The elimination half-life varies based on the specific herb and its active constituents, with some compounds being excreted unchanged while others are metabolized into active or inactive metabolites.

Contra-indications

  • Hypersensitivity to any component of the tincture
  • Severe liver disease
  • Pregnancy (specific tinctures may vary)

Adverse effects

  • Skin irritation
  • Allergic reactions
  • Gastrointestinal upset
  • Drowsiness or sedation (depending on the active ingredient)

Interactions

  • May interact with alcohol, increasing sedative effects
  • Potential interactions with other CNS depressants
  • May affect the metabolism of certain drugs via hepatic pathways

Precautions

  • Use cautiously in patients with a history of substance abuse
  • Monitor liver function in patients with liver disease
  • Caution in operating machinery or driving due to potential drowsiness

Pregnancy

Generally not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks associated with alcohol and other active ingredients.

Breast-feeding

Caution is advised, as components may pass into breast milk and affect the infant.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep tightly closed and out of reach of children.

Formulations

  • Tinctures of various herbs and compounds, including but not limited to: echinacea, valerian, and calendula

AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.

Clinical monograph: valerian

Valerian is a herbal supplement derived from the root of the Valeriana officinalis plant. It has been traditionally used for its sedative and anxiolytic properties, commonly marketed for the treatment of insomnia, anxiety, and stress-related conditions. The efficacy of valerian in promoting sleep and reducing anxiety has been supported by various studies, although results can be variable, and it may take several days of use to experience its full effects.

Indications

  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Stress-related symptoms
  • Restlessness
  • Muscle tension

Dosage

Children: Refer to a pediatric dosing reference or guidelines, as specific pediatric dosing has not been established.

Adults: Refer to specific guidelines for dosage, as doses can vary based on the formulation and indication.

Mechanism of action

Valerian is thought to exert its effects primarily through modulation of the GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) neurotransmitter system. It is believed to increase the levels of GABA in the synaptic cleft, enhancing GABAergic transmission, which results in sedative effects. Additionally, valerian contains various compounds, including valerenic acid, which may influence other neurotransmitter systems and have anti-anxiety properties.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamic effects of valerian include sedation, anxiolysis, and muscle relaxation. These effects are most pronounced at doses typically used for therapeutic purposes. The onset of action may vary, with some users reporting effects within an hour, while others may require several days of consistent use. Tolerance can develop with prolonged use, and withdrawal symptoms may occur upon abrupt discontinuation after long-term use.

Pharmacokinetics

Valerian is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring approximately 1-2 hours after oral administration. The bioavailability may be affected by factors such as the preparation method and individual metabolism. Valerian is metabolized in the liver, primarily via phase I reactions, and is excreted through the urine. The half-life of its active components can vary, influencing dosing intervals and duration of action.

Adverse effects

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Gastrointestinal disturbances
  • Daytime drowsiness
  • Allergic reactions

Interactions

  • CNS depressants may enhance sedative effects
  • Alcohol may increase sedation
  • Benzodiazepines may have additive effects

Precautions

  • Use with caution in patients with liver disorders
  • Avoid use in children without medical supervision
  • Discontinue use if adverse effects occur

Pregnancy

Safety during pregnancy has not been established; use only if clearly needed.

Breast-feeding

Safety during breastfeeding has not been established; use with caution.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

  • Dried root
  • Tinctures
  • Capsules
  • Tablets
  • Liquid extracts

AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.

This drug in other countries

The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.