The root is antispasmodic, carminative, deobstruent, deodorant, diuretic, emmenagogue, laxative, nervine, sedative, stimulant and stomachic[46, 61, 178, 218]. It is an excellent substitute for valerian, Valeriana officinalis, and is taken internally in the treatment of epilepsy, hysteria and convulsive affections, nervous indigestion, insomnia, depression and tension headaches[51, 238, 240]. Externally, it is used as a deodorant and to treat rashes[238]. A paste of the root is used externally to treat haemorrhoids[272]. The root is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[238]. Use this remedy with caution, overdoses are toxic[218].