Sedative

Usually refers to a nervine with Cerebral Depressant activity; may also refer to other systems, such as the heart [ORWJr].

Sedatives are medicines which have the power of allaying the actions of the systems generally, or of lessening the exercise of some particular function [Brown1878].

Sedatives are medicines which have the power of allaying the actions of the systems generally, or of lessening the exercise of some particular function, especially of the heart and brain [Meyer1932].

Substance that decreases function of the central nervous system, usually used for nervous tension, pain, neuromuscular spasm, insomnia. Also, an agent that exerts a soothing or tranquilizing effect. (California poppy - mild , Opium poppy - strong.) [Sanchez BOTM680].

•  ∧   
  Nervous System

•  >   
  Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
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  California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica)
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  Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis)
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  Kava (Piper methysticum)

[Brown1878] Oliver Phelps Brown. The Complete Herbalist; or the People Their Own Physicians. Jersey City, NJ (1878). Online Reprint.

[Meyer1932] Joseph Ernest Meyer. The Herbalist and Herb Doctor. Hammond, IN: Indiana Botanic Gardens (1932) Online Reprint.

[Sanchez BOTM680] Joann Sanchez. Botanical Medicine 680 notes. Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine.