it is generally believed that some of the GABA-analogs, particularly valerenic acids as components of the essential oil along with other semi-volatile sesquiterpenoids, appear to have some affinity for the GABAA receptor, a class of receptors on which benzodiazepines are known to act.[15][16] Valeric acid, which is responsible for the typical odor of mostly older valerian roots, does not have any sedative properties.