VALERIANA OFFICINALIS: A COFACTOR IN THE TREATMENT OF INSOMNIA AND IMPROVEMENT OF DEPRESSION

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore the potential of Valeriana officinalis as an alternative in the treatment of depression by improving insomnia symptoms associated with this condition. Depression is a widely prevalent mental health condition, often accompanied by sleep disturbances, further exacerbating the clinical condition of patients. Phytotherapy is a cost-effective treatment, widely used by the Brazilian population in both traditional/popular medicine and public programs of the unified health system. The study consisted of a literature review addressing the effectiveness of this medicinal plant as well as the underlying mechanisms explaining its influences. Valeriana officinalis has a positive effect on reducing depression symptoms, showing significant improvement in sleep quality through the inhibition of the enzymatic system responsible for the central catabolism of γ-aminobutyric acid, this leads to increased concentrations and decreased activity of the central nervous system, also acting on serotonin receptors, which may have a positive impact on reducing depression symptoms. In this context, the herbal remedy demonstrates effective potential as a therapeutic option in insomnia treatment, leading to the improvement of depression with few adverse effects in treatment.