Acute anxiolytic effects of a refined Valeriana officinalis extract in healthy humans

A new, patented, refined Valeriana officinalis extract (phytofin Valerian 368) from Finzelberg GmbH & Co. KG has previously been shown to possess anxiolytic properties in rodent models of anxiety [1]. The current study extended this line of research into humans. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study, 29 healthy participants attended the laboratory on three separate days, 7 days apart, receiving a different treatment in counterbalanced order on each occasion (placebo, 300, 900mg valerian extract). On each day mood and physiological responses were assessed pre-dose and at 1 and 3 hours post-dose. Each assessment comprised measurement of blood pressure, heart rate, salivary cortisol and sIgA, and completion of Bond-Lader mood scales and the State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) before and after 20 minutes performance of the Defined Intensity Stress Simulator (DISS) computerized multitasking stressor battery.

The most notable results were improved mood in comparison to placebo for both doses of valerian in the absence of the stressor (i.e. pre-DISS data), with increased ratings of 'calmness' at both post-dose time points, and anxiety at the earlier time point. There was no additional effect on the change in mood inculcated by the stressor for either dose. Both doses of valerian also led to improved cognitive performance on either one (300mg) or two (900mg) of the four concurrent DISS modules. The results confirm the potential for this extract to exert a beneficial effect on mood in humans and demonstrate that this property is not accompanied by any cognitive decrements.

[1] Hattesohl M: Pharmakologische Untersuchungen zu Valeriana officinalis L.s.l. [Dissertation]. Universität Münster 2006.