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Abstract
Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) is a popular and widely available herbal supplement,
primarily used to treat insomnia and anxiety. Until recently, its mechanism of action
has remained unknown. Neurobiological research has begun to show that the herb, with
its active valerenic acid, interacts with the GABA(A)-ergic system, a mechanism of
action similar to the benzodiazepine drugs. This series of experiments sought to corroborate
these findings with behavioral measures, compare them to the benzodiazepine diazepam,
and to analyze the chemical composition of Valeriana officinalis. Rats were administered
either ethanol (1 ml/kg), diazepam (1mg/kg), valerian root extract (3 ml/kg), valerenic
acid (3mg/kg), or a solution of valerenic acid and exogenous GABA (75 microg/kg and
3.6 microg/kg, respectively) and assessed for the number of entries and time spent
on the open arms of an elevated plus maze. Results showed that there was a significant
reduction in anxious behavior when valerian extract or valerenic acid exposed subjects
were compared to the ethanol control group. The evidence supports Valeriana officinalis
as a potential alternative to the traditional anxiolytics as measured by the elevated
plus maze.
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