What is Nardostachys jatamansi or Spikenard?

Botanical Name: Nardostachys grandiflora DC

Common Names: Spikenard, Nard, Indian Nard, Jatamansi, Muskroot, Balchhar, Sumbul-ut-teeb, Nardin

Nardostachys jatamansi is a flowering plant that belongs to the Valerian family. It is native to the Himalayas and is commonly found in Nepal, India, and Bhutan. The root of the plant has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine for its various medicinal properties.

Nardostachys jatamansi has been used to treat a wide range of ailments, including anxiety, insomnia, epilepsy, hysteria, and gastrointestinal disorders. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. Recent research has shown that Nardostachys jatamansi extract may be effective in treating Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. It has also been found to have potential anticancer properties.