Antidepressant activity of a refined valerian extract – an interesting new feature

Preparations from Valeriana officinalis L.s.l. were traditionally used as mild sedatives, anxiolytics and hypnotics. However, despite numerous attempts, the mechanism of action is still discussed controversially. Sedative effects were studied in numerous investigations. However, neither in pharmacological nor in human studies these effects could be convincingly demonstrated. Only recently a comprehensive preclinical testing of the refined valerian extract phytofin Valerian 368 demonstrated in particular anxiolytic properties [1]. Because of the high comorbidity of anxiety, depressive and sleep disorders [2, 3],…