Exploring Valeriana species: Unraveling anticonvulsant potential through phytochemistry and pharmacology

Abstract

Background and aims: The Valerianaceae comprises about 300 species of annual and perennial plants found worldwide. Several species are utilized for biological purposes, while others are consumed. The various Valeriana species have different therapeutic effects, including sleep aid, sedative and anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant effects. The study intends to review the phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, and molecular pathways of these plants to explore their potential as therapeutic options for seizures and epilepsy. Methods: Until 2023, all relevant information about Valeriana species was gathered from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. Valerianaceae, Valeriana, valeric acid, and Valeriana officinalis, phytochemical composition, in vivo investigations, epilepsy, neuroprotective, anticonvulsant, GABA, seizure, and preclinical and clinical research were among the search terms utilized for this review. Results: Based on the results obtained from the studies conducted in this field, significant anticonvulsant effects of various compounds extracted from the Valeriana species have been observed in multiple animal models, including pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)- and maximal electroshock (MES)-induced seizures in mice, rats, and zebrafish. It has also been determined that the molecular and pharmacological mechanisms involved in these anti-epileptic effects are increasing the GABA pathway, inhibiting the NMDA receptor and adenosine pathways, and nitric oxide (NO) modulation. Moreover, these compounds synergize with clonazepam, diazepam, phenobarbital, and phenytoin. Conclusion: It is recommended to prepare proper drug forms and study its anticonvulsant effects in clinical studies.