These effects result from a selective neurotropic action of the root on higher brain centers. The herb's primary functional effect is to suppress and regulate the autonomic nervous system. As a result, it has been found effective in treating psychosomatic diseases and childhood behavioral disorders that involve dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system. Valerian extracts are currently used in scores of compounds and teas in Europe. Valerian is perhaps best characterized as a minor tranquilizer when administered in the form of a tea, a tincture or an extract.
Borage is an annual plant that grows wild in the Mediterranean countries.
The hollow, bristly, branched stem grows up to 2 feet tall. Borage has been used for various medicinal purposes over the years as an aperient, diaphoretic, febrifuge, galactagogue, pectoral, and tonic. Borage is good for reducing fever and for restoring vitality during convalescence from illness. Its diaphoretic action is also credited with some antidotal effect against several poisons. This herb also exhibits some calmative properties that make it useful for nervous conditions.