Prep. Prepared by mixing a solution of sulphate of zinc and valerianate of soda, and separating and purifying the crystals which are formed.

Prop. & Comp. This salt occurs in pearly crystalline scales, with an odour and taste of valerianic acid; soluble in alcohol and hot water; sparingly so in cold water and ether. Composition (Zn O2 C10 H9 O3). Heated to redness in an open crucible it leaves a residue of oxide of zinc, soluble in dilute sulphuric acid, and the solution is precipitated white by hydrosulphuret of ammonia. This salt has beeh frequently adulterated, especially with sulphate of zinc; to show the absence of this latter salt, the solution of valerianate of zinc in hot water should give no precipitate with chloride of barium. When valerianate of zinc is distilled with dilute sulphuric acid, the distillate (valerianic acid) when mixed with a solution of acetate of copper, should not immediately affect the transparency of the fluid, but form after a little time oily drops, passing gradually into a bluish-white crystalline deposit: this shows the absence of butyric acid (the butyrate of zinc is a common adulteration of the salt as found in commerce).

Therapeutics. Valerianate of zinc is a nervine tonic and antispasmodic, and has been given with advantage in cases where the combined action of the mental and valerian seems desirable, as in chorea, epilepsy, and various neuralgic affections; it is said also to act as an anthelmintic.

Dose. 1/2 gr. to 4 gr.; the dose may be increased till some nausea is produced.

Valerianate of Quinia. (C40 H24 N2 O4, C10 H9 O3 + 2 HO) forms white silky needles, with a strong odour and taste; soluble in alcohol, and sparingly so in water, especially when cold; it is decomposed by heat with the escape of valerianic acid.

Therapeutics. It is sometimes employed in medicine, but is not officinal. It is said to be particularly useful in some forms of intermittent and spasmodic neuralgic affections.

Dose. 1 gr. to 5 gr.

Valerianate of iron, and valerianate of ammonia have also been used in medicine, and may be given in the same doses as the corresponding salt of zinc.