Prep. Prepared by distilling Fousel oil with a mixture of sulphuric acid and bichromate of potash, and saturating the distilled fluid with soda. In this process Fousel oil, which is the alcohol of the amyl series, and is represented by the formula C10 H11 O, HO, undergoes oxidation by the chronic acid which is set free when the sulphuric acid is mixed with bichromate of potash, and is converted into valerianic acid, which distils over. This acid bears the same relation to Fousel oil, as acetic acid does to ordinary alcohol, or formic acid to wood spirit or methylic alcohol. The fluid containing the valerianate of soda is evaporated to dryness and the valerianate is fused and allowed to cool.

Prop. & Comp. It is presented in dry white masses, not alkaline in reaction, evolving an odour of valerian when sulphuric acid is added. Its composition is represented by the formula NaO, C10 H9 O3.

Therapeutics. Valerianate of soda seems to resemble valerian in its action, and may be used in cases where the administration of valerian is desirable. It is introduced into the British Pharmacopoeia for manufacturing the valerianate of zinc.

Dose. 1/2 gr. to 2 gr. or more.