Valerian GABA activity

Valerian root, an over-the-counter herbal supplement, has also been used for insomnia. Thought to act, like the benzodiazepines, by increasing the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, preliminary studies indicate that 400 mg of valerian root decreases sleep latency and enhances sleep quality. 

Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) Uses Rx of superficial wounds (bacterial, viral, fungal, insect bites, minor burns, cold sores, acne Action Broad-spectrum antibiotic activity against E. coli, S. aureus, C. albicans Available forms Topical creams, lotions, oint, oil apply topically PRN Notes/SE Ataxia, contact dermatitis, D, drowsiness, GI mucosal irritation Interactions Effects OF drugs that affect histamine release EMS effects of Benadryl Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) Uses Anxiolytic, antispasmodic, dys-menorrheal, restlessness, sedative Action Inhibits uptake stimulates release of GABA, which T GABA concentration extracellularly causes sedation Available forms Ext 400-900 mg PO 30 min < hs, tea 2-3 g (1 tsp of crude herb) qid, PRN, tine 3-5 mL (1/2-1 tsp) (1 5 ratio) PO qid, PRN Efficacy Probably effective sedative (reduces sleep latency) Notes/SE GI upset, HA, insomnia, N/V, palpitations, restlessness, vision changes Interactions T Effects OF barbiturates, benzodiazepines, opiates, EtOH, catnip, hops, kavakava, passion flower, skullcap effects OF MAOIs, phenytoin, warfarin EMS T Effects of benzodiazepines and opiates abruptly D/C may cause withdrawal symptoms... 

Valerian is used in the treatment of insomnia and stress and anxiety. The important active compounds of valerian are the valepotriates (iridoid molecules) and valeric acid. These compounds are found exclusively in valerian. Originally, it was thought that just the valepotriates were responsible for valerian s sedative effects but, recently, an aqueous extract of valerian has also been shown to have a sedative effect. As the valepotriates are not soluble in water, it was concluded that valeric acid also possesses sedative action and is the chemical factor responsible for the sedative effect noted in human clinical trials with aqueous extracts of valerian (Murray, 1995). Valerian inhibits the uptake of GABA and enhances the release of GABA. 

Valerian originated in Europe and Asia, where it has been used for more than 1,000 years for a variety of purposes but primarily to treat insomnia and anxiety. Valerian preparations, derix ed from the root of the plant, contain active chemicals that collectively appear to enhance inhibitory neurotransmission through the GABA system. Valerian is not well studied, but several reports support the claim that it reduces sleep latency and improves sleep quality, albeit with many of the same side effects associated with benzodiazepines (Julien, 2005 Spinella, 2001). 

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