The effect of Valeriana Officinalis and Amitriptyline on Reserpinated rats

Abstract Background: Valeriana officinalis is used as an antidepressant drug in herbal medicine. Objective: To evaluate the effect of valeriana officinalis which is an antidepressant herbal drug on reserpinated rat. Methods: 36 white male rats in NMRI type with an average weight of 165±5.5g were divided into 3 groups. Group A was injected with reserpin, group B with VO plus reserpin and group C with amitriptyline plus reserpin. Aqueous extract of valeriana was prepared in standard conditions with suckcele. In all groups diarrhea eye, feet and hand haemorrhage behavioral signs and righting reflex were studied and scored from 1 to 4. The obtained data were evaluated by SPSS software, ANOVA and T-test. Findings: The findings indicated that valeriana is as effective as amitriptyline except for cases of diarrhea (P<0.01). Conclusion: The antidepressant effect of valeriana probably depends on the inhibition in the release of centeral and peripheral amine neurotransmitor. Further studies are recommended for the compounds.