Anticonvulsant effects of valerian extracts

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Anticonvulsant properties have been attributed to valeriana officinalis extracts. Our aim was to examine the anticonvulsant properties of valerian extracts in adult danio rerio (zebrafish).

METHODS: Zebrafish were pretreated with anti–epileptic drugs (AEDs), valerian extracts: aqueous (ValH2O) or ethanolic (ValEtOH), valerenic acid (VA) or a mix (phenytoin or clonazepam with valerian extracts or valerenic acid). Seizures were then induced with pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) in the water tank. The latency period was defined from initial exposure until the wild jumping immediately followed by the loss of posture.

RESULTS: Valerian extracts and VA had anticonvulsant properties similar to common AEDs such as phenytoin, gabapentin or valproate. Ethanolic valerian extracts were more potent than aqueous extracts. Valerenic acid is more potent than valerian extracts. A mix of clonazepam with valerian (aqueous or ethanolic) extracts or valerenic acid significantly increased the latency. However, phenytoin showed an exclusive interaction with the ethanolic valerian extracts.

CONCLUSION: Valerian extracts and valerenic acids have anticonvulsant properties similar to AEDs in adult zebrafish. The beneficial interaction of valerian extracts with phenytoin or clonazepam could be a possible adjuvant therapy to reduce drugs adverse effect in epilepsy patients.