Jatamansi Powder contains the herb Jatamansi, which is said to be a “true Spikenard” or the “Biblical Spikenard,” a strong sedative related to Valerian.

This product is strictly a powder form of Jatamansi; according to the retailer’s website, no additional ingredients are listed in the formula. Below, we will look more closely at this herb.

The official name of the herb is “Nardostachys jatamansi” and has been traditionally used for relaxing the mind and enhancing sleep quality. The roots of the plant are thought to have a tranquilizing effect, and it has been used for addressing symptoms of nervous disorders, menopause and heart palpitations. When burned as incense or made into an essential oil and massaged on the head, it is reported to have a tranquilizing effect.

The product’s advertisement suggests adding different herbs to the powder to create different effects. For example, the addition of ginger, fennel and cinnamon is suggested for easing indigestion.

According to the usage instructions posted online, individuals using this powder simply need to add one-quarter or one-half of a teaspoon to warm water and drink the mixture two or three times per day. Unfortunately, the company does not provide a description of the flavor of the product on the website.

For those who feel they may have an aversion to the flavor of this mixture, other natural formulas are widely available. We feel that when choosing a product, it is important to seek formulas that will fit into an existing lifestyle or routine, and many people may find it easier to remember to take a tablet rather than to drink an herbal formula. We believe this to be especially true for products that are not pleasing to the palate.

• Product is relatively inexpensive
• Company claims to use an extract that is 100% organic

• Flavor of mixture is not described online
• Some retail outlets may charge a restocking fee on product returns
• No testimonials posted online at time of review

While this tonic made from Jatamansi may be effective for calming the mind, and has been used for generations in India, we were disappointed that we could not find much solid evidence to prove its effectiveness. We would appreciate seeing more research posted online, and would particularly like to see testimonials from people who have used this product as a sleep remedy.

When evaluating a product, we generally seek out comments from individuals who have tested the product first-hand. We feel this gives credibility to the company’s claims, and gives us a better idea of whether or not it has worked. We have found that customers have no reason to lie about their experience, and if a product has received a large number of positive responses, it must truly be effective. Unfortunately, we found nothing at all for this product, or for the herb. To ensure confidence in a formula, we suggest opting for an herbal supplement that has generated positive response from previous users.