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Background and aims: The Valerianaceae comprises about 300 species of annual and perennial plants found worldwide. Several species are utilized for biological purposes, while others are consumed. The various Valeriana species have different therapeutic effects, including sleep aid, sedative and anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant effects. The study intends to review the phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, and molecular pathways of these plants to explore their potential as therapeutic options for seizures and epilepsy. Methods: Until 2023, all relevant information about Valeriana species was gathered from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. Valerianaceae, Valeriana, valeric acid, and Valeriana officinalis, phytochemical composition, in vivo investigations, epilepsy, neuroprotective, anticonvulsant, GABA, seizure, and preclinical and clinical research were among the search terms utilized for this review. Results: Based on the results obtained from the studies conducted in this field, significant anticonvulsant effects of various compounds extracted from the Valeriana species have been observed in multiple animal models, including pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)- and maximal electroshock (MES)-induced seizures in mice, rats, and zebrafish. It has also been determined that the molecular and pharmacological mechanisms involved in these anti-epileptic effects are increasing the GABA pathway, inhibiting the NMDA receptor and adenosine pathways, and nitric oxide (NO) modulation. Moreover, these compounds synergize with clonazepam, diazepam, phenobarbital, and phenytoin. Conclusion: It is recommended to prepare proper drug forms and study its anticonvulsant effects in clinical studies.

Valeriana officinalis L. is a plant from the Caprifoliaceae family, which is widely distributed in various parts of the world, especially in Europe and Asia. All species of Valeriana are distinguished by their ability to synthesize essential oil, which has a powerful effect on the physiological and mental aspects of the human body. The aim was to study the qualitative and quantitative composition of essential oil from valerian roots, collected in different countries, using the gas chromatography method, and to establish marker compounds for valerian species. 13 samples of commercial roots with rhizomes of V. officinalis from nine countries of the world and a sample of Valeriana pratensis and Valeriana stolonifera growing in Ukraine were selected for the study. The essential oil was obtained from dried valerian roots by the distillation method described in the European Pharmacopoeia. To determine the component composition of the essential oils of the selected samples, the methods of gas chromatography with a mass spectrometric detector and capillary gas chromatography were used. The commercial samples of V. officinalis from different countries yielded 0.21%–1.03% of essential oil. Only six of 13 samples contained essential oil in an amount that satisfies the requirement of the European Pharmacopoeia standard (not less than 4 mL/kg). 150 compounds were identified in the essential oils of 13 samples of V. officinalis essential oils. The range and average content and coefficients of variation of the identified compounds were determined. The principal compounds of V. officinalis essential oils were bornyl acetate (1.6%–27.1%), valeranone (0.5%–17.9%), valerenal (0%–14.7%), camphene (0%–14.6%), α -fenchene (0%–10.6%), and valerenic acid (0%–8.5%). The samples of V. pratensis and V. stolonifera yielded rather high levels of essential oil (1.18% and 0.93%, respectively). Three chemotypes of V. officinalis samples were determined-bornyl acetate/valerenal, valeranone, and isovaleric acid. The composition of the three essential oils compared was rather similar. Based on the study results, we propose the following marker compounds for V. officinalis consistently present in all 16 examined samples: bornyl acetate (1.6%–27.1%), limonene (0.2–2.3), and valeranone (0.5%–17.9%). The study of samples from Ukraine indicates the prospects of using these species of the genus Valeriana with the aim of expanding the raw material base and creating potential herbal preparations with a sedative effect, which are extremely necessary for the population of the country in the war and post-war periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insomnia is caused by a myriad of factors and can be very disruptive to a person's quality of life and health. When people see a health care provider, often a thorough assessment occurs and people are given various treatment options that include lifestyle interventions, medications, and/or cognitive behavior therapy. There are also many people that may choose to take over the counter or herbal medications as a remedy for insomnia. While there are many supplements that claim to have sleep benefits, clinical data supporting such claims are not always present. This article will briefly discuss the three most common herbal supplements taken for insomnia: melatonin, valerian, and lavender. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historic spring barley varieties can be a source of resistance to abiotic (drought) and biotic (diseases) environmental factors in breeding programs. They can be a source of the new technological characteristics of malt or sensory characteristics of beer. Beers made from Pilsner malt from two historical varieties - Chlumecky (1902) and Stupicky Starocesky (1926) and two contemporary varieties - Bojos and Sebastian (2005) were evaluated. These beers have been flavoured with valerian, which in combination with hops has been shown to have anxiolytic and sedative effects. A comparison of elementary and sensory parameters of beers with addition of 0.5 g.L-1 and 1.5 g.L-1 of valerian to two different series of beers was carried out. The Chlumecky samples had the lowest content of alcohol by volume (6.17% and 5.12%) in both batch series of beer and the highest real extract in the first batch series (4.11%). The samples of beer from the Stupicky Starocesky variety had low real extract (3.57% and 3.60%) and high content of alcohol by volume in both batch series (6.34% and 5.96%). In terms of sensory analysis it means that beers brewed from the malt made from the older barley varieties - Chlumecky and Stupicky Starocesky with addition of 0.5 g.L-1 of valerian had the highest overall impression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historic spring barley varieties can be a source of resistance to abiotic (drought) and biotic (diseases) environmental factors in breeding programs. They can be a source of the new technological characteristics of malt or sensory characteristics of beer. Beers made from Pilsner malt from two historical varieties – Chlumecky (1902) and Stupicky Starocesky (1926) and two contemporary varieties – Bojos and Sebastian (2005) were evaluated. These beers have been flavoured with valerian, which in combination with hops has been shown to have anxiolytic and sedative effects. A comparison of elementary and sensory parameters of beers with addition of 0.5 g.L-1 and 1.5 g.L-1 of valerian to two different series of beers was carried out. The Chlumecky samples had the lowest content of alcohol by volume (6.17% and 5.12%) in both batch series of beer and the highest real extract in the first batch series (4.11%). The samples of beer from the Stupicky Starocesky variety had low real extract (3.57% and 3.60%) and high content of alcohol by volume in both batch series (6.34% and 5.96%). In terms of sensory analysis it means that beers brewed from the malt made from the older barley varieties – Chlumecky and Stupicky Starocesky with addition of 0.5 g.L-1 of valerian had the highest overall impression.

Background and Aim: Chronic neuropathic pain is one of the common and debilitating problems of human societies and is a challenge in health care Valerian officinalis has been used in the treatment of pain and anxiety due to its antioxidant effects and multiple mechanisms. Also, the medicinal form of emulsion is studied to increase the bioavailability and absorption of herbal products. The present study was conducted to determine the analgesic and anti-anxiety effects of the oral emulsion of the extract and compare it with the effects of the extract in adult male rats. Methods: First, the oral emulsion of the extract was formulated with the help of similar studies and Design Expert software, and the best formulation was selected. Then, neuropathic pain was induced in the animals with the help of a sciatic nerve chronic obstructive lesion (CCI) neuropathy surgical model. The extract and emulsion were given orally (gastric gavage) to the animals for 30 days, after which behavioral tests were performed, to investigate thermal allodynia, and elevated plus maze (EPM), to investigate induced anxiety behaviors, one day before Induction of neuropathy and on days 2, 4, 6, 10, 14, 21, 30 after neuropathy were investigated, and at the end, the effects of oral emulsion gavage of extract and extract on lipid peroxidation of malondialdehyde (MDA) in brain tissue were investigated and compared. Results: Separate administration of valerian extract and emulsion reduced cold allodynia in all days after CCI surgery compared to the neuropathy group (P<0.05). In addition, CCI surgery caused anxiety in rats. Administration of valerian emulsion and its extract were able to significantly reduce anxiety in the behavioral test of the plusshaped elevated maze. The difference is that this reduction process started earlier with the administration of the extract emulsion (P<0.001). Also, the administration of the extract and emulsion significantly reduced the amount of malondialdehyde in the brain tissue in neuropathic rats compared to the neuropathy group (P<0.001), with the difference that the emulsion of the extract caused a greater decrease in the amount of malondialdehyde compared to the extract. Conclusion: Valerian extract and emulsion have analgesic and anti-anxiety effects. In addition, the administration of valerian emulsion in neuropathic rats has significantly more anti-anxiety and analgesic effects compared to the administration of valerian extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Safe medications for mild mental diseases in pregnancy are needed. Phytomedicines fromSt. John'swort and valerian are valid candidates, but safety data in pregnancy are lacking. The transplacental transport of hyperforin and hypericin (from St. John's wort), and valerenic acid (from valerian) was evaluated using the ex vivo cotyledon perfusion model (4 h perfusions, term placentae) and, in part, the in vitro Transwell assay with BeWo b30 cells. Antipyrine was used for comparison in both models. U(H)PLC-MS/MS bioanalytical methods were developed to quantify the compounds. Perfusion data obtained with term placentae showed that only minor amounts of hyperforin passed into the fetal circuit, while hypericin did not cross the placental barrier and valerenic acid equilibrated between the maternal and fetal compartments. None of the investigated compounds affected metabolic, functional, and histopathological parameters of the placenta during the perfusion experiments. Data from the Transwell model suggested that valerenic acid does not cross the placental cell layer. Taken together, our data suggest that throughout the pregnancy the potential fetal exposure to hypericin and hyperforin - but not to valerenic acid-is likely to be minimal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Safe medications for mild mental diseases in pregnancy are needed. Phytomedicines from St. John’s wort and valerian are valid candidates, but safety data in pregnancy are lacking. The transplacental transport of hyperforin and hypericin (from St. John’s wort), and valerenic acid (from valerian) was evaluated using the ex vivo cotyledon perfusion model (4 h perfusions, term placentae) and, in part, the in vitro Transwell assay with BeWo b30 cells. Antipyrine was used for comparison in both models. U(H)PLC-MS/MS bioanalytical methods were developed to quantify the compounds. Perfusion data obtained with term placentae showed that only minor amounts of hyperforin passed into the fetal circuit, while hypericin did not cross the placental barrier and valerenic acid equilibrated between the maternal and fetal compartments. None of the investigated compounds affected metabolic, functional, and histopathological parameters of the placenta during the perfusion experiments. Data from the Transwell model suggested that valerenic acid does not cross the placental cell layer. Taken together, our data suggest that throughout the pregnancy the potential fetal exposure to hypericin and hyperforin – but not to valerenic acid – is likely to be minimal.

Extractions of the underground parts of valerian were prepared with water and ethanol (25–95%) at 25–75 °C. Extraction yields, bioactive compounds, and the 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging ability of lyophilized extracts were determined. The inhibitory effects of the extracts, valerenic acid derivatives and phenolic acids, on metabolic syndrome (MS)-related enzymes activities were further examined. Both roots and rhizomes extracted with 95% ethanol at 75 °C had the highest levels of bioactive compounds. The antioxidant capacity and inhibition of MS-related enzymes of the roots extract were better than those of the rhizomes. The roots extract more strongly inhibited pancreatic lipase (inhibition of 50% of enzyme activity (IC50), 17.59 mg/mL), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE, IC50, 3.75 mg/mL), α-amylase (IC50, 12.53 mg/mL), and α-glucosidase (IC50, 15.40 mg/mL). These four phenolic acids inhibited the activity of MS-related enzymes. Valerenic acid demonstrated more of an inhibitory ability for ACE (IC50, 0.225 mg/mL, except for caffeic acid) and α-glucosidase (IC50, 0.617 mg/mL) than phenolic acids. Valerian extract inhibited key enzyme activities that were associated with obesity (lipase), hypertension (ACE), and type 2 diabetes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase), suggesting that it is a potential candidate for the development of functional supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) is an important medicinal plant revealing sedative, hypotensive, anti-spasmodic and anxiolytic activity. The purpose of the study was to determine the intraspecific variability of the common valerian growing wild in Poland and the 'Lubelski' landrace, as to their developmental traits, chemical composition and selected genetic parameters. Both wild-growing populations (19) and the landrace (1) were evaluated under ex situ conditions. Observations of the underground organs parameters, both developmental and chemical (according to the European Pharmacopoeia) were carried out in the first year of the plant's development, while the characteristics of the aboveground organs, followed by the sowing value of seeds (according to the International Seed Testing Association)—in the second year. The genetic analyses were performed using the NGS-DArT-seq method. Results indicate the presence of five different gene pools covering the regions of population's origin, with a gene flow within and between them. A high level of developmental and chemical variabilities among the wild-growing populations was noticed, however without a clear relation to the region of the origin. The mass of underground organs ranged from 107.4 to 403.6 g FW × plant−1 with the content of sesquiterpenic acids at the level of 0.004–0.094%. Population no 18 was distinguished by the highest content of sesquiterpenic acids and the relatively high mass of underground organs, followed by the admixture of the gene pool, typical for the 'Lubelski' landrace. Unlike the 'Lubelski' landrace, the wild-growing populations were characterized by a high amount of an essential oils (3.90 to 10.04 mL/kg), which may be promising from the perspective of their potential use. In turn, the sowing value of the seeds obtained from the populations, expressed as the germinability, was rather low (25.25–62.25%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of medicinal plants as an alternative phytotherapeutic remedy against mild illnesses and dysfunctions is increasingly embraced by people. Among these dysfunctions, episodes of nervousness and anxiety due to lack of sleep and insomnia are becoming more and more frequent among the population. To remedy these problems, several plants with sedative activity are recommended. In particular, valerian root (Valeriana officinalis L.) is the most recommended and studied with a significant difference. This study presented a quantification of the phytomelatonin contents in valerian root and several related and recommended herb supplements against nervousness, anxiety, and insomnia. The results showed the presence of phytomelatonin in all the samples analyzed. The high phytomelatonin contents in valerian root and its supplements indicated that, in addition to the known constituents of valerian root such as valerenic acid, phytomelatonin also contributed to the phytotherapeutic activity of this plant since the relaxing and sleep-inducing activity of melatonin is well documented. The recommended daily doses of valerian are analyzed according to their phytomelatonin content, and recommendations are given on the possible synergistic action of the components of valerian as a relaxant and sleep inducer in patients with these dysfunctions. It is also recommended to document the phytomelatonin contents in phytotherapeutic preparations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Valeriana jatamansi Jones, belongs to the Valerianaceae family, is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, traditional Indian medicine (TIM). This traditional herb has been officially listed in the pharmacopoeia of sixteen countries. Its usage was first described in Diannan Bencao , also known as "Zhizhuxiang", is a famous folk medicine herb with a long history of medicinal usage in China, and it was used to treat indigestion, flu, and mental disorders in the Han, Achang, Bai, Blang, Dai, Jingpo, Naxi, and Wa ethnic groups. In recent years, V. jatamansi has attracted worldwide attention as an important medicinal due to its pharmacological activity especially in nervous and digestive systems, and multiple uses. The current review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicity, and quality control of V. jatamansi. The relevant information of V. jatamansi was obtained from several databases including Web of Science, PubMed, ACS Publications, Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar, CNKI, Ph.D. and MSc dissertations, using " Valeriana jatamansi Jones", " Valeriana jatamansi ", and "蜘蛛香" as keywords. After eliminating repetitive and low-quality reports, the remaining reports were analyzed and summarized to prepare this review. Plant information was retrieved by www.worldfloraonline.org and www.gbif.org using " Valeriana jatamansi Jones" as keyword. V. jatamansi has been historically utilized as a traditional medicine to treat various diseases, including infectious, inflammatory, neurological, and gastrointestinal disorders. More than 400 compounds have been identified in V. jatamansi including iridoids, volatile oils, lignans, flavonoids, phenolic acids, phenylpropanoids, sesquiterpenes, sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, triterpenes as well as other compounds. The plant extracts and compounds showed various pharmacological activities such as antitumor, cytotoxic, antivirus, etc. In addition, V. jatamansi has found various applications in the agricultural, food, and cosmetics industry. A review of literature shows V. jatamansi has pharmacological properties valuable in treating diseases, particularly for antianxiety and gastrointestinal disorders. Despite a wide spectrum of effects from specific compounds, research mainly focuses on in vitro and in vivo , with a lack of pharmacokinetics, clinical trials and underlying mechanisms. Consequently, it becomes important to embark on additional researchs to elucidate the pharmacokinetics, material basis and mechanisms of V. jatamansi , thereby realizing the aspiration of its comprehensive utilization and sustainable development. [Display omitted] • V. jatamansi is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine and traditional Indian medicine. • Research progress in the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, and quality control of V. jatamansi. • The iridoids of V. jatamansi were well highlighted. • Future perspectives and challenges of V. jatamansi were proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of bio and chemical fertilizers on yield and production factors of valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) at the Homad-Absard Agricultural Complex in Damavand city, Tehran Province, Iran, through a factorial experiment based on a randomized complete blocks design with 3 replications during 2017 to 2020. Experimental factors consist Nitroxin and Phosphate Barvar2 biofertilizers each with 2 levels of inoculation and control, and also the urea (46% N) chemical fertilizer in 5 levels (0, 30, 60, 90 and 150 kg/ha). Measured parameters were root diameter (mm), root length (cm), leaf width (cm) and leaf length (cm) root dry weight (kg/ha), shoot dry weight (kg/ha), valernic acid content (%) and valernic acid yield (g/ha). Results showed that the biofertilizers had significant effect (p≤ 0.01) on the all quantity and quality parameters studied. Unlike the urea chemical fertilizer at all levels which had a negative effect on the yield and amount of valernic acid (%), biofertilizers increased it. Maximum and minimum amount of valernic acid (%) were measured in control (0.465%) and 150 kg/ha urea (0.215%) respectively. The highest and lowest root dry weight were obtained in interaction of Nitroxin+Phosphate barvar2 + 150 kg urea (665 kg/ha) and control (221 kg/ha) respectively. Results of this experiment showed that biofertilizers with positive effects on experimental parameters are able to replace the chemical fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of herbal extracts could represent an advantageous approach for treating sleeping disorders, especially in mild-to-moderate conditions, before the onset of a specific therapy with first-line drugs. Specifically, the focus was posed about the use of extracts from Valeriana officinalis, Ziziphus jujuba, and Humulus lupulus. Multiple studies demonstrated the efficacy of these medicinal plants to positively manage insomnia symptoms. Additionally, their efficacy in the treatment of sleeping disorders could also be improved by their pharmacological association. In the present study, extracts from Valeriana officinalis, Ziziphus jujuba, Humulus lupulus, melatonin, and their pharmacological association, Vagonotte® MEL, were studied for potential application in the treatment of insomnia. Methods: The extracts and melatonin were tested on hypothalamic neurons and tissue for evaluating biocompatibility and protective and neuromodulatory effects. The neuromodulatory effects were evaluated as orexin A gene expression and serotonin steady state level, in the hypothalamus. Results: The extracts and melatonin, although with evident differences, were effective as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents; additionally, they were also able to reduce the hypothalamic gene expression of orexin A and the steady state level of serotonin, playing master roles in wakefulness. It is noteworthy that the formulation displayed all the effects of the single ingredients, without any sign of toxicity and pharmacological interference in the hypothalamus. Conclusions: Concluding, the present study explored the biological effects of melatonin and herbal extracts with phytotherapy interest in V. officinalis, Z. jujuba, and H. lupulus. The study demonstrated their intrinsic scavenging/reducing activity, together with protective and neuromodulatory effects in the hypothalamus, with a significant reduction of both orexin A gene expression and serotonin steady state level. Additionally, the study also considered their pharmacological association, which displayed an overall pharmacological spectrum mirroring, including all the effects of the single ingredients, without showing any sign of toxicity in the brain and interference between the extracts and melatonin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and aim. Valeriana officinalis has been recognized in traditional medicine and used since ancient times for a variety of health ailments. It is mainly appreciated for its sedative and sleeping properties. Currently, scientists are conducting numerous studies on the exact chemical composition of valerian and the properties they carry in the human body. Material and methods. This paper presents a narrative review on valerian. Analysis of the literature. The desire to summarize information on the uses and properties of V. officinalis is presented. V. of- ficinalis exhibits sedative, sleep-inducing and antidepressant properties. Studies show broad effects on the human nervous system, for example, reducing stress. Conclusion. By discovering new properties of valerian, its properties are expanding significantly day by day. Its main use is primarily in the treatment of sleep disorders and nervous system disorders. However, it is also used in headaches, depression, anti-cancer therapy, urinary and digestive disorders. More and more people are turning to valerian as an alternative to drugs that have more side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When confronted with non-psychotic mental disorders, pregnant women often refrain from using synthetic drugs and resort to herbal medicines such as St. John's wort, California poppy, valerian, lavender, and hops. Nevertheless, these herbal medicines have not yet been officially approved in pregnancy due to lack of safety data. Using a variety of in vitro methods (determination of cytotoxicity, apoptosis induction, genotoxicity, effects on metabolic properties, and inhibition/induction of differentiation) in a commonly used placental cell line (BeWo b30), we were previously able to show that extracts from these plants are likely to be safe at the usual clinical doses. In the present work, we wanted to extend our safety assessment of these herbal medicines by 1) looking for possible effects on gene expression and 2) using the same in vitro methods to characterize effects of selected phytochemicals that might conceivably lead to safety issues. Proteomics results were promising, as none of the five extracts significantly affected protein expression by up- or down-regulation. Protopine (contained in California poppy), valerenic acid (in valerian), and linalool (in lavender) were inconspicuous in all experiments and showed no adverse effects. Hyperforin and hypericin (two constituents of St. John's wort) and valtrate (typical for valerian) were the most obvious phytochemicals with respect to cytotoxic and apoptotic effects. A decrease in cell viability was evident with hypericin (≥1 µM) and valtrate (≥10 µM), whereas hyperforin (≥3 µM), hypericin (30 µM) and valtrate (≥10 µM) induced cell apoptosis. None of the tested phytochemicals resulted in genotoxic effects at concentrations of 0.1 and 1 µM and thus are not DNA damaging. No decrease in glucose consumption or lactate production was observed under the influence of the phytochemicals, except for valtrate (at all concentrations). No compound affected cell differentiation, except for hyperforin (≥1 µM), which had an inhibitory effect. This study suggests that extracts from St. John's wort, California poppy, valerian, lavender, and hops are likely to be safe during pregnancy. High plasma concentrations of some relevant compounds—hyperforin and hypericin from St. John's wort and valtrate from valerian—deserve special attention, however. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Valeriana officinalis L., commonly known as "valerian", is a traditional herbal medicine distributed in the north temperate zones of America, Europe and Asia. In traditional Chinese medicine, valerian and its roots were used for the treatment of restlessness of the heart and mind, palpitation and insomnia caused by internal depression of emotions and moods. However, safety evaluation of valerian remains deeply unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the genotoxicity, 14-days acute oral toxicity test, 90-day subchronic oral toxicity test and teratogenicity test of aqueous extract of valerian root (AEVR). The genotoxicity of AEVR was evaluated with bacterial reverse mutation, mouse erythrocyte micronucleus test and in vitro mammalian cell chromosome aberration test. In the 14-days acute toxicity study, Kunming mice were administered at a dosage of 96 g/kg body weigh by gavage. In the 90-day subchronic toxicity study, Sprague–Dawley rats received oral doses of 0, 3.5, 7 and 14 g/kg body weight of AEVR. In the teratogenicity study, pregnant Sprague–Dawley rats received a dose of 0, 3.5, 7 and 14 g/kg body weight of AEVR. AEVR did not show any genotoxicity based on the bacterial reverse mutation, mouse erythrocyte micronucleus test and in vitro mammalian cell chromosome aberration test. In the acute toxicity study, AEVR at a dose of 96 g/kg body weight did not cause death or abnormal behavior in male or female mice. In the subchronic toxicity study, at the doses of 0, 3.5, 7, 14 g/kg body weight, no dose-related effects on clinical observation, body weight, organ weight, hematology, serum biochemistry and urinalysis of AEVR were detected in male or female rats. Teratogenicity test shown that there were no significant toxicologically changes in embryonic formation, body weight of pregnant rats, external, skeletal and visceral examination observed in pregnant and fetal rats at the dosage of 0, 3.5, 7, 14 g/kg body weight. In vivo or in vitro assays demonstrated that AEVR does not exhibit genotoxicity. The LD 50 of AEVR was greater than 96 g/kg body weight in both sex of mice according to acute oral toxicity study. Subchronic toxicity and teratogenicity tests showed that the no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) of AEVR was no less than 14 g/kg body weight. This study established a non-toxic dose of AEVR, providing a foundation for the use of valerian as a new resource food in some countries and regions. [Display omitted] • Aqueous extract of valerian root (AEVR) did not induce genotoxicity. • The LD 50 of AEVR was greater than 96 g/kg in Kunming mice. • The NOAEL of AEVR was no less than 14 g/kg in male and female SD rats. • AEVR did not cause toxicological effects in pregnant and fetal SD rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When confronted with non-psychotic mental disorders, pregnant women often refrain from using synthetic drugs and resort to herbal medicines such as St. John’s wort, California poppy, valerian, lavender, and hops. Nevertheless, these herbal medicines have not yet been officially approved in pregnancy due to lack of safety data. Using a variety of in vitro methods (determination of cytotoxicity, apoptosis induction, genotoxicity, effects on metabolic properties, and inhibition/induction of differentiation) in a commonly used placental cell line (BeWo b30), we were previously able to show that extracts from these plants are likely to be safe at the usual clinical doses. In the present work, we wanted to extend our safety assessment of these herbal medicines by 1) looking for possible effects on gene expression and 2) using the same in vitro methods to characterize effects of selected phytochemicals that might conceivably lead to safety issues. Proteomics results were promising, as none of the five extracts significantly affected protein expression by up- or down-regulation. Protopine (contained in California poppy), valerenic acid (in valerian), and linalool (in lavender) were inconspicuous in all experiments and showed no adverse effects. Hyperforin and hypericin (two constituents of St. John’s wort) and valtrate (typical for valerian) were the most obvious phytochemicals with respect to cytotoxic and apoptotic effects. A decrease in cell viability was evident with hypericin (≥1 µM) and valtrate (≥10 µM), whereas hyperforin (≥3 µM), hypericin (30 µM) and valtrate (≥10 µM) induced cell apoptosis. None of the tested phytochemicals resulted in genotoxic effects at concentrations of 0.1 and 1 µM and thus are not DNA damaging. No decrease in glucose consumption or lactate production was observed under the influence of the phytochemicals, except for valtrate (at all concentrations). No compound affected cell differentiation, except for hyperforin (≥1 µM), which had an inhibitory effect. This study suggests that extracts from St. John’s wort, California poppy, valerian, lavender, and hops are likely to be safe during pregnancy. High plasma concentrations of some relevant compounds—hyperforin and hypericin from St. John’s wort and valtrate from valerian—deserve special attention, however.

Underground Valerian roots (Vаlеrіаnае radix) are officinal raw materials. More than 1000 compounds were detected in Valeriana officinalis L. s.l., of which no less than 500 natural substances of organic and inorganic origin were identified, among them – carbohydrates, amino acids, lipids, vitamins, enzymes, phenolic compounds, essential oil, iridoids, alkaloids, steroids. The aerial part of Valerian is a source of various flavonoids with pronounced antioxidant properties and specific pharmacotherapeutic activity. The aim of the research is to determine, by means of gas chromatography, component composition of Valerian tinctures, made of the aerial part of V. tuberosa L., V. stolonifera Czern (Kantserivska balka, Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine) and V. officinalis L. (Łódź, Bydgoszcz, Poland). Materials and methods. Tincture samples of the aerial part of wild species V. tuberosa L., V. stolonifera Czern (Kantserivska balka, Zaporizhzhia region), and V. officinalis L. (the experimental site of ZSMU; Łódź and Bydgoszcz in Poland) were selected for experimental studies according to the traditional production recipe for making tinctures (1 : 5). Component composition of the tinctures was studied using a 7890B gas chromatograph with a 5977B mass spectrometer detector. Results. By means of chromato-mass spectrometry, component composition of the Valerian tinctures has been identified, namely: in the tincture prepared from the aerial part of V. officinalis (Łódź, Poland) 54 components have been identified, V. tuberosa – 50; V. stolonifera – 46 and V. officinalis (Bydgoszcz, Poland) – 30. The chromatogram analysis of four Valerian tinctures helped to identify 118 components, 5 of which were present in all studied tinctures; 12 components were present in three tinctures; 22 components have been found in two tinctures. It should be noted that 10 components have been found in the tinctures in large quantities, their content ranging from 10.91 % to 30.02 %. Conclusions. Analyzing the obtained data of the GC, it can be seen that Valerian tinctures differ both in quantitative and qualitative composition. From the aerial part of Valeriana officinalis, prepared in Łódź and Bydgoszcz in Poland, 17 components coincide. In the tinctures, prepared from herbs collected in Ukraine, 10 components coincide. The highest content of Butanoic acid, 3-methyl – from 4.01 % to 16.78 %; 9,12,15-Octadecatrienoic acid, ethyl ester, (Z,Z,Z)- – from 0.47 % to 7.09 %; Dihydroxyacetone – from 0.37 % to 5.69 % and Quinic acid – from 0.30 % to 4.66 % in all four tinctures by peak areas and retention time should be marked. In three tinctures Cyclododecane, 1,5,9-tris(acetoxy)- has been identified in amount of 30.56 % to 14.56 %. The obtained results confirm the expediency of using the aerial part of Valeriana officinalis as raw material with a large commodity yield and various contents of biologically active substances for further pharmacognostic researches for the purpose of creation of new medicines and phytopreparations

O transtorno de ansiedade generalizado (TAG) é uma doença de alta prevalência devido ao estresse e à exigência contemporânea. Com isso, há grande uso de ansiolíticos com efeitos adversos. O objetivo do estudo foi analisar as plantas medicinais e fitoterápicos que constam nos documentos do Ministério da Saúde e podem ser indicadas por profissionais no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) para o tratamento complementar do TAG. Esta revisão bibliográfica foi elaborada principalmente pelos documentos do Ministério da Saúde (MS), o Memento Fitoterápico da Farmacopeia Brasileira (MFFB), o Formulário de Fitoterápicos – Farmacopeia Brasileira e a Relação Nacional de Plantas Medicinais de Interesse ao Sistema Único de Saúde (RENISUS). Além disso, foram realizadas pesquisas em livros e artigos científicos para complementar informação. Foi constatado que o MS incentiva o uso no SUS de seis plantas para o tratamento da TAG, Hypericum perforatum L., Matricaria chamomilla L., Melissa officinalis L, Passiflora incarnata L., Piper methysticum G. Forst. e Valeriana officinalis L. Nesse contexto, foram destacadas sobre estas plantas, as indicações, a composição química, as evidências clínicas, os efeitos adversos, as contraindicações e as interações medicamentosas. Apesar dos benefícios da ampliação de opções no tratamento da TAG, existem os efeitos adversos e as interações medicamentosas. Desta forma, recomenda-se a indicação/prescrição, orientação e acompanhamento dos pacientes na utilização desta terapia integrativa e complementar por profissionais capacitados.

The research aimed to demonstrate the effect of Myconate® HB (formononetin) on the growth, weight, nutrients and active compounds in Valeriana officinalis and Salvia officinalis. The research was carried out in the experimental field on brown soil. A univariate experiment was established using the randomized block design in four replications. The research showed that the use of Myconate® (Agrii Polska Sp. z o.o.) on V. officinalis seedlings positively affected the weight of the aerial parts and roots, as well as the content of dry matter and fiber. However, the content of total protein and nitrogen-free extracts was unfavourable. In the case of S. officinalis, the use of Myconate® also had a positive impact on the weight of the aboveground parts and roots and on the content of total protein and crude ash in the herb, while it negatively influenced the contents of dry matter, fiber and nitrogen-free extracts. Myconate®, however, did not affect the length of the phenological stages in the experimental plants. The percentage content of essential oils increased during the vegetation period in both species in all the tested plots, while their statistically higher contents were observed from the full tillering stage in the plots sprayed with Myconate®. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to induction of hairy roots, the leaf and petiole explants from seedlings grown under in vitro condition were inoculated with A4 strain of Agrobacterium rhizogenesis. Transgenic hairy roots were confirmed by PCR. Transgenic hairy roots were treated with different concentrations of iron and nickel nano-oxides and methyl jasmonate alone and in combination with L-leucine. Then hairy roots were sampled at 24 and 72 hours after treatment and the biochemical properties and expression of VoTPS1 and VoTPS6 genes were evaluated. The gene expression level was measured using real-time PCR technique and specific primers for each gene. The results showed that the combined application of 100 μM methyl jasmonat and 1 mM L-leucine was increased the activity of catalase enzymes and proline content in Valerian hairy root compared to the control. Among the different concentrations of nickel nano-oxide, the treatment containing 30 mg/l nickel nano-oxide with 1 mM L-leucine increased the activity of peroxidase enzyme and containing 60 mg/l nickel nano-oxide increased the total protein content in hairy roots. In addition, Among the different concentrations of iron nano-oxide, 30 mg/l of this nano-oxide increased the activity of peroxidase enzyme and the amount of flavonoid content, and combination of 90 mg/l of this nano-oxide with 1 mM of L-leucine amino acid was led to the an increase in proline content. The highest expression for VoTPS1 gene was observed in treatment containing 60 mg/l iron Nano-oxide at 24 hours after elicitation. The highest expression for VoTPS6 gene was observed in treatment containing methyl-jasmonate (100µM) and L-leucine (1mM) at 72 hours after elicitation.

Twelve compounds, including a new iridoid (1) and 11 known compounds, were obtained from the aerial part of Valeriana officinalis var. latifolia Miq. Their structures were assigned by spectroscopic and mass spectrometric methods. All isolates were screened in vitro for cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitory activity. Two compounds (9 and 10) exhibited significant COX-2 inhibitory activity, with IC50 values ranging from 0.67 to 6.77 μM. The possible recognition mechanism between compound 9 and COX-2 was predicted by molecular docking analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Valerenic acid (VA), a sesquiterpenoid of the plant Valeriana officinalis, has attracted attention of the research community due to its potential positive role against neurodegenerative diseases induced by chemicals. However, the relevant evidence in the literature is scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the putative protective role of VA on the toxic effects of the fungicide benomyl on SH-SY5Y neural cells. Methods: Cell viability was determined via the MTT and NRU assays, DNA damage was assessed via comet assay and apoptosis was evaluated through the expression of relevant genes. Results: According to the results, exposure of the cells to benomyl enhanced viability inhibition and promoted DNA damage and apoptosis since the expression levels of the genes coding for MAPK8, NF-kB, Bax, Caspase-9 and Caspase-3 were increased. Treatment of the cells with VA ameliorated these effects in a concentration dependent manner. Conclusion: It is concluded that the molecular mechanism through which benomyl exerts its toxic action appears to depend on DNA oxidation and apoptosis induction. Furthermore, VA, a plant-derived compound is a protective antioxidant against pesticide-induced toxicity. Therefore, herbs, extracts and compounds of plant origin could be used as nutritional supplements that back up the beneficial role of medicine in neurodegenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Tension-type headache is the most frequent type of headache. Considering the effectiveness of Valeriana officinalis (Valerian) in treatment of some types of headache, the effect of valerian root was studied in patients with tension-type headache. Materials and Methods: The current study is a double-blind randomized clinical trial that was conducted in Shams Hospital of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran, from January to June 2018. We included 88 participants with tension-type headache and randomly assigned them to intervention and control group by block randomization in a 1:1 ratio. The intervention group received Sedamin® capsule (530 mg of valerian root extraction) while the placebo group received 500 mg of breadcrumbs both given as two capsules daily for a month -after dinner. The headache impact on activity of daily livings performance, headache disability, and headache severity were measured using questionnaires in baseline and one month after intervention in both groups. Results: The average age (±SD) of the participants was 34.9 (±8.7) years old. After one month, the impact of headache on daily livings performance, significantly reduced in intervention group (mean=51.2) versus the placebo (mean=57.0), (p Conclusion: The present trial showed that valerian capsule could reduce the headache impact on daily livings performance, disability and severity of tension-type headache.

Extractions of the underground parts of valerian were prepared with water and ethanol (25–95%) at 25–75 °C. Extraction yields, bioactive compounds, and the 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging ability of lyophilized extracts were determined. The inhibitory effects of the extracts, valerenic acid derivatives and phenolic acids, on metabolic syndrome (MS)-related enzymes activities were further examined. Both roots and rhizomes extracted with 95% ethanol at 75 °C had the highest levels of bioactive compounds. The antioxidant capacity and inhibition of MS-related enzymes of the roots extract were better than those of the rhizomes. The roots extract more strongly inhibited pancreatic lipase (inhibition of 50% of enzyme activity (IC50), 17.59 mg/mL), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE, IC50, 3.75 mg/mL), α-amylase (IC50, 12.53 mg/mL), and α-glucosidase (IC50, 15.40 mg/mL). These four phenolic acids inhibited the activity of MS-related enzymes. Valerenic acid demonstrated more of an inhibitory ability for ACE (IC50, 0.225 mg/mL, except for caffeic acid) and α-glucosidase (IC50, 0.617 mg/mL) than phenolic acids. Valerian extract inhibited key enzyme activities that were associated with obesity (lipase), hypertension (ACE), and type 2 diabetes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase), suggesting that it is a potential candidate for the development of functional supplements.

Common valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) is an important medicinal plant revealing sedative, hypotensive, anti-spasmodic and anxiolytic activity. The purpose of the study was to determine the intraspecific variability of the common valerian growing wild in Poland and the ‘Lubelski’ landrace, as to their developmental traits, chemical composition and selected genetic parameters. Both wild-growing populations (19) and the landrace (1) were evaluated under ex situ conditions. Observations of the underground organs parameters, both developmental and chemical (according to the European Pharmacopoeia) were carried out in the first year of the plant’s development, while the characteristics of the aboveground organs, followed by the sowing value of seeds (according to the International Seed Testing Association)—in the second year. The genetic analyses were performed using the NGS-DArT-seq method. Results indicate the presence of five different gene pools covering the regions of population’s origin, with a gene flow within and between them. A high level of developmental and chemical variabilities among the wild-growing populations was noticed, however without a clear relation to the region of the origin. The mass of underground organs ranged from 107.4 to 403.6 g FW × plant−1 with the content of sesquiterpenic acids at the level of 0.004–0.094%. Population no 18 was distinguished by the highest content of sesquiterpenic acids and the relatively high mass of underground organs, followed by the admixture of the gene pool, typical for the ‘Lubelski’ landrace. Unlike the ‘Lubelski’ landrace, the wild-growing populations were characterized by a high amount of an essential oils (3.90 to 10.04 mL/kg), which may be promising from the perspective of their potential use. In turn, the sowing value of the seeds obtained from the populations, expressed as the germinability, was rather low (25.25–62.25%).

Objectives: Traditional treatment methods are becoming popular and commonly used in many societies and have become the first treatment option for most people. While some of these methods are helpful, they can interact with medications the patient is taking for another disease and cause a variety of life-threatening risks. Valerian (catweed) plant is used in traditional medicine as a sleep aid due to its sedative effects. Valerian may also exert anticancer effect in vitro. Materials and Methods: In this study, the cytotoxicty and oxidative stress effects of valerian root extract were evaluated in human liver hepatocellular carcinoma (Hepg2) and human colorectal adenocarcinoma (Caco2) cell lines. The cytotoxicity was evaluated via the 3-(4,5-dimethythiazol-2-yl)- 2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide test. Total reactive oxygen species analysis was performed via a 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate assay in flow cytometry. Results: Inhibition concentration 50 values were calculated as 936.6 and 1097.5 μg/mL in the Hepg2 and Caco2 cell lines, respectively. It was observed that valerian root extract did not induce oxidative stress in HepG2 and Caco2 cell lines. Conclusion: These results indicate that the use of valerian root extract as an alternative method in cancer treatment may not be effective and may cause a risk for public health. On the other hand, it may be safe at recommended tolerated concentrations since it does not cause oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal anxiety symptoms in the perinatal period might have long-term health effects on both the mother and the developing child. Valerian is a phytotherapeutic agent that is widely used for the treatment of anxiety. This study investigated the effects of valerian treatment in postpartum rats on maternal care, toxicity, and milk composition. Postnatal development, memory, and anxiety behavior in the offspring were also assessed. Postpartum Wistar rats received the valerian (500, 1000, or 2000 mg·kg–1·day–1) by oral gavage. Clinical and biochemical toxicity was evaluated with commercial kits. Maternal behavior was observed daily. Milk composition was analyzed by colorimetric methods. Physical and neuromotor tests were used to analyze postnatal development. Anxiolytic activity was assessed by the elevated plus maze, and memory was evaluated by the step-down inhibitory avoidance task. Maternal toxicity and care behavior were not altered by the treatment, while only the highest dose promoted a significant increase of lactose, and the doses 1000 and 2000 mg·kg–1·day–1 promoted a reduction of protein contents in milk. Postnatal development was similar in all offspring. Adult offspring did not display altered anxiety behavior, while long-term memory was impaired in the female adult offspring by maternal treatment with 1000 mg·kg–1·day–1. These results suggested that high doses of valerian had significant effects on important maternal milk components and can cause long-term alterations of offspring memory; thus, treatment with high doses of valerian is not safe for breastfeeding Wistar rat mothers.

Background: This study was pointed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of valerian and lemon balm additional to the quetiapine in critically ill patients with delirium and agitation. Methods: We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Fifty-three adult intensive care unit (ICU) patients (according to ICU Confusion Assessment Method scores) who were treated for delirium received quetiapine and Neurogol syrup ( a combination of valerian and lemon balm) or placebo 5 mL every 12 hours for five consecutive days. Improvement in agitation according to the Richmond Sedation and Restlessness Scale was considered the main outcome. Results: The trial was completed for 53 patients (27 in the treatment group and 26 in the placebo group). The baseline characteristics between the groups were similar. In the treatment group, the number of agitated patients was significantly reduced and the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.000). Compared with the placebo group, the length of ICU stay in the treatment group was significantly reduced (p = 0.001). The Glasgow Coma Scale improved significantly at the end of day 5 (p = 0.04). There was no statistical difference in the improvement of delirium between the study groups (p = 0.14). Neurogol syrup was well tolerated. Conclusion: The addition of Neurogol to quetiapine (a combination of valerian and lemon balm) can reduce agitation and shorten the length of stay in the ICU without adverse effects. Clearly, more research is still needed to investigate the role of herbal medicines in ICUs and their efficacy and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract. Valerianа officinalis rhizomes whis roots, monocomponent and complex herbal drugs based on Valerianа officinalis, and the drug Corvalol containing chemically synthesized α-bromizovalerianic acid ethyl ester (ethyl bromovalerianate) are OTC drugs and are widely used. At the same time, in the database of drug adverse effects «Pharmacovigilance» AIS Roszdravnadzor from 2009 to 2018, 147 spontaneous reports of adverse reactions were registered when taking Valeriana rhizomes whis roots and Corvalol. The aim of the study was the analisis of spontaneous reporting about adverse reactions when taking Valeriana rhizomes and roots and the multi-component drug Corvalol in the database «Pharmacovigilance» AIS Roszdravnadzor and assessment of their compliance with the information in the instructions for medical use. It was reactions from the nervous system (lethargy, drowsiness, weakness, apathy, headache, dizziness, depression of consciousness, stupor, neurotoxicity, toxic encephalopathy), from the gastrointestinal tract (nausea, bitterness in the mouth, burning of the mucous membrane, belching, heartburn, appetite disorders), cardiovascular system (tachycardia) and allergic reactions (skin itching, skin flushing, rash, maculo-papular rash, urticaria, dermatitis, cheilitis, aphthous stomatitis, angioedema) in the reports. The sedative and anxiolytic effects of the leading biologically active component of rhizomes with valerian roots, valerenic acid, are mediated through modulation of the function of type-γ-aminobutyric acid receptors A. Experimentally confirmed that the mechanism of action of valerenic acid is similar to benzodiazepine drugs, which cause of a number of reported adverse neurological reactions. However, the range of complaints from patients cited in the reports is significantly wider than in the instructions for the medical use of these drugs. There is a need for further monitoring of reports and analysis of already received data and the addition of prescribing information of Valeriana rhizomes whis roots and Corvalol for ensuring safety requirements.

Valeriana officinalis is a medicinal plant, a source of bioactive chemical compounds and secondary metabolites which are applied in pharmaceutical industries. The advent of ethnomedicine has provided alternatives for disease treatment and has increased demands for natural products and bioactive compounds. A set of preliminary steps to answers for such demands can include integrative omics for systems metabolic engineering, as an approach that contributes to the understanding of cellular metabolic status. There is a growing trend of this approach for genetically engineering metabolic pathways in plant systems, by which natural and synthetic compounds can be produced. As in the case of most medicinal plants, there are no sufficient information about molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of metabolic pathways in V. officinalis. In this research, systems biology was performed on the RNA-seq transcriptome and metabolome data to find key genes that contribute to the synthesis of major secondary metabolites in V. officinalis. The R Package Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) was employed to analyze the data. Based on the results, some major modules and hub genes were identified to be associated with the valuable secondary metabolites. In addition, some TF-encoding genes, including AP2/ERF-ERF, WRKY and NAC TF families, as well as some regulatory factors including protein kinases and transporters were identified. The results showed that several novel hub genes, such as PCMP-H24, RPS24B, ANX1 and PXL1, may play crucial roles in metabolic pathways. The current findings provide an overall insight into the metabolic pathways of V. officinalis and can expand the potential for engineering genome-scale pathways and systems metabolic engineering to increase the production of bioactive compounds by plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Valerian, scientifically known as Valeriana officinalis, is a herbaceous plant with numerous medicinal properties. Its root serves as a painkiller and antispasmodic, containing valeric acid that has anti-musclecontraction properties. Valerian has various medical uses, such as sedative, hypnotic, anti-anxiety, anti-spasmodic, antidepressant, anti-hysteric, anti-hypertensive, and diuretic effects. For this reason, valerian has been introduced by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a food supplement to reduce anxiety. The purpose of this study is to investigate the sedative effect of the valerian plant. Methods and Materials: This review was conducted by searching the keywords valerian, catnip, and sedation through journal database platforms such as Google Scholar, Pubmed, and ScienceDirect as search engines for journals related to this article between 2001 and 2023. 37 articles were studied, and after removing articles that did not match the purpose of this research and duplicates, a total of 21 articles were used in this research. Result: The research showed that this plant is known as an agonist of gamma-aminobutyric GABA receptors. Studies also show that this plant inhibits valeric acid, the enzyme responsible for GABA catabolism, and increases the concentration of GABA in the brain, reduces the activity of different brain nuclei, and causes sedative effects. Also, the property of this plant is similar to benzodiazepines and barbiturates. Conclusion: According to the attained results, natural materials are superior to synthetic drugs due to fewer side effects and no alterations in the physiological and biochemical pathways, so it is suggested to conduct more comprehensive research in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Valeriana officinalis L. (Caprifoliaceae) has been traditionally used to treat mild nervous tension and sleep problems. The basis of these activities are mainly attributed to valerenic acid through the modulation of the GABA receptor. Moreover, V. officinalis is claimed to have other biological activities such as cardiovascular benefits, anticancer, antimicrobial and spasmolytic. The current review aims to update the biological and pharmacological studies (in vitro, in vivo and clinical trials) of V. officinalis and its major secondary metabolites in order to guide future research. Databases PubMed, Science Direct and Scopus were used for literature search including original papers written in English and published between 2014 and 2020. There have been identified 33 articles which met inclusion criteria. Most of these works were performed with V. officinalis extracts and only a few papers (in vitro and in vivo studies) evaluated the activity of isolated compounds (valerenic acid and volvalerenal acid K). In vitro studies focused on studying antioxidant and neuroprotective activity. In vivo studies and clinical trials mainly investigated activities on the nervous system (anticonvulsant activity, antidepressant, cognitive problems, anxiety and sleep disorders). Just few studies were focused on other different activities, highlight effects on symptoms of premenstrual and postmenopausal syndromes. Valeriana officinalis continues to be one of the medicinal plants most used by today's society for its therapeutic properties and whose biological and pharmacological activities continue to arouse great scientific interest as evidenced in recent publications. This review shows scientific evidence on traditional uses of V. officinalis on nervous system.

Background: Valeriana officinalis has often been used to treat sleep disorders as a traditional medicine for 2000 years. The sedative effect of valerian extract is facilitated by the GABA A receptor β3 subunit. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of valerian extract on GABRB3 gene mRNA expression and sedative effect in BALB/c mice. Methods: This is an experimental preclinical study using a posttest-only control group design. A total of 20 BALB/c mice were randomly allocated into four groups consisting of five mice each. Group I was given 5 ml of Aqua Dest (distilled water), group II was given 0.025 mg/10 g of diazepam, group III was given 2.5 mg/10 g of valerian extract, and group IV was given 5 mg/10 g of valerian extract. The drugs were administrated for seven days through a gastric gavage. The rotarod test was performed on the seventh day. A blood sample was taken on the first day before drug administration and after the rotarod test on the seventh day to be analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR. Results: GABRB3 gene mRNA expression showed a significant increase in groups II, III, and IV (p Conclusions: GABRB3 gene mRNA expression was significantly increased after the administration of valerian extract. Based on the rotarod test, valerian extract and diazepam had a clinically similar sedation effect. A higher dose of valerian extract does not yield a higher level of GABRB3 gene mRNA expression nor sedative effects.

Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) is a popular and widely available herbal supplement used to treat sleeping disorders and insomnia. The herb's ability to ameliorate sleep dysfunction may signify an unexplored anti-tumorigenic effect due to the connection between circadian factors and tumorigenesis. Of particular interest are the structural similarities shared between valeric acid, valerian's active chemical ingredient, and certain histone deacteylase (HDAC) inhibitors, which imply that valerian may play a role in epigenetic gene regulation. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the circadian-related herb valerian can inhibit breast cancer cell growth and explored epigenetic changes associated with valeric acid treatment. Our results showed that aqueous valerian extract reduced growth of breast cancer cells. In addition, treatment of valeric acid was associated with decreased breast cancer cell proliferation, migration, colony formation and 3D formation in vitro in a dose- and time-dependent manner, as well as reduced HDAC activity and a global DNA hypomethylation. Overall, these findings demonstrate that valeric acid can decrease the breast cancer cell proliferation possibly by mediating epigenetic modifications such as the inhibition of histone deacetylases and alterations of DNA methylation. This study highlights a potential utility of valeric acid as a novel HDAC inhibitor and a therapeutic agent in the treatment of breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the effect of valerian root extract on the sleep quality of patients after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Methods: The patients who participated in this triple-blind clinical trial were selected by permuted block randomization. The participants were assigned to the valerian (n=36) and placebo (n=36) groups. The valerian group received 530 mg of valerian capsules for 30 nights after CABG surgery, and the placebo group received 530 mg of the placebo capsules containing wheat flour. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the prothrombin time (PT) and partial thromboplastin time (PTT) were assessed on four occasions, including the baseline, the 3rd, 14th and 30th days following intervention. Results: The odds ratio of worsened sleep quality significantly varied over time (the interaction of time and group) in the valerian group compared to the placebo group in various dimensions including total sleep quality (P=0.001), sleep latency (P<0.01), sleep duration (P=0.020), sleep efficiency (P=0.001) and daytime dysfunction (P=0.025). No significant difference was observed in the alterations of the odds ratio of PT in the two groups over time. (P=0.371). Conclusion: The consumption of oral valerian root extract over 30 nights could significantly improve the patients' sleep quality safely after CABG surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astrocytes can protect neurons against oxidative stress and excitability-dependent disorders, such as epilepsy. Valeriana officinalis has been used as anticonvulsant and can exert an antioxidant effect, which may underlie its opposing action against the toxic effects of the pesticide rotenone. We investigated the V. officinalis/rotenone interaction in the cortical spreading depression (CSD), a phenomenon that depends upon brain excitability (in vivo model). In addition, we analyzed the protective action of V. officinalis against the cytotoxic effects of rotenone in cultures of rat C6 glioma cells (in vitro model). For the CSD study, Wistar rats received either V. officinalis (250 mg/kg/day via gavage for 15 days; n = 8) or 10 mg/kg/day rotenone via subcutaneous injections for 7 days (n = 7), or they received both substances (n = 5). Two control groups received either saline (vehicle for V. officinalis; n = 8) or 1% Tween-80 aqueous solution (vehicle for rotenone; n = 9). After treatment, CSD was recorded for 4 h. The rotenone- and V. officinalis-treated groups presented, respectively, with lower (2.96 ± 0.14 mm/min), and higher CSD propagation velocity (3.81 ± 0.10 mm/min) when compared with the controls (Tween-80, 3.37 ± 0.06 mm/min and saline, 3.35 ± 0.08 mm/min; p < 0.05). The rotenone plus V. officinalis-treated group displayed a CSD velocity (3.38 ± 0.07 mm/min) that was similar to controls. In line with these results, in vitro experiments on rat glioma C6 cells revealed a protective effect (MTT assay) of V. officinalis against rotenone-induced cytotoxicity. These results suggest the therapeutic potential of V. officinalis for treating neurological diseases involving redox imbalance and astrocyte dysfunction.

Sleep problems are widely prevalent and associated with various comorbidities including anxiety. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) is a popular herbal medicine used as a sleep aid, however the outcomes of previous clinical studies are inconsistent. This study was conducted to update and re-evaluate the available data in order to understand the reason behind the inconsistent outcomes and to provide a broader view of the use of valerian for associated disorders. PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library were searched to retrieve publications relevant to the effectiveness of valerian as a treatment of sleep problems and associated disorders. A total of 60 studies (n=6,894) were included in this review, and meta-analyses were performed to evaluate the effectiveness to improve subjective sleep quality (10 studies, n=1,065) and to reduce anxiety (8 studies, n=535). Results suggested that inconsistent outcomes were possibly due to the variable quality of herbal extracts and that more reliable effects could be expected from the whole root/rhizome. In addition, therapeutic benefits could be optimized when it was combined with appropriate herbal partners. There were no severe adverse events associated with valerian intake in subjects aged between 7 and 80 years. In conclusion, valerian could be a safe and effective herb to promote sleep and prevent associated disorders. However, due to the presence of multiple active constituents and relatively unstable nature of some of the active constituents, it may be necessary to revise the quality control processes, including standardization methods and shelf life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]