Preparations and extracts of valerian, as well as isovaleramide, isovaleric
acid, and certain structurally related compounds exhibit clinically
significant pharmacological properties which implicate a treatment for a
variety of pathological conditions, including spasticity and convulsions,
which are ameliorated by effecting a modulation of CNS activity. The
compositions in question generally are non-cytotoxic and do not elicit
weakness or sedative activity at doses that are effective for the
symptomatic treatment of such pathological conditions.