Efficacy and Toxicity Study of Nardostachys Jatamansi DC and Valeriana Wallichii DC in Sleep Disorders

Abstract

Background: Sleep disorders are common in general population and adversely affects the health related quality of life. Many people do not want to rely upon allopathic drug easily available over the counter because of their side effects. Cases of sleep disorders have exponentially increased during pandemic (Covid -19) and new term Covid-somnia have been coined for the same. Two Perennial herbs from Valerianeaceae family i.e Nardostachys jatamansi DC and Valeriana wallicii DC which are known as high value medicinal plants were selected for the study. Nardostachys jatamansi DC is used in the treatment of epilepsy, hysteria, convulsive ailments whereas rhizome of Valeriana wallicii DC have shown anxiolytic, stress releasing and antidepressant effects.
Materials and Methods: The present study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of the selected herbs for Sleep Disorders. A dose dependent Phenobarbitone - induced sleep time measurement study was performed. Further measure the effect of motor coordination, walking assay was performed.
Results and Conclusions: Results of acute toxicity study and Irwin test indicated that selected extracts of Nardostachys jatamansi DC and Valeriana wallichii are safe. Further dose dependent Phenobarbitone - induced sleep time measurement study showed significant increase in selected three doses for this study (125, 250, 500 mg/kg body weight compared to control. The result of the study demonstrated that oral administration of extracts produced a dose-dependent decrease in sleep latency and increase in sleep duration in mice treated with extracts. These extracts exhibited a non- significant reduction in the number of foot slips in non-dose dependent manner relative to Phenobarbitone treated group.