Known compounds detected in valerian that may contribute to its method of action are:
Alkaloids: actinidine,[6] chatinine,[6][7] shyanthine,[6] valerianine,[6] and valerine.[6]
Isovaleramide may be created in the extraction process.[8]
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).[9]
Isovaleric acid.[10]
Iridoids, including valepotriates: isovaltrate and valtrate.[6]
Sesquiterpenes (contained in the Volatile oil): valerenic acid,[11] hydroxyvalerenic acid and acetoxyvalerenic acid.[12]
Flavanones: hesperidin,[13] 6-methylapigenin[13] and linarin.[14]