(P12-010-24) Acute Effects of Valeriana officinalis Extract on Actual Sleep Time: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study

Objectives: Insufficient sleep duration and poor sleep quality may negatively impact health and wellbeing including weight gain, weakened immune systems, heart disease, and diminished quality of life. Valeriana officinalis has been used traditionally to manage sleep issues. The objective of the study was to evaluate the acute effect of V. officinalis extract (VOE) on sleep.

Methods: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel, intervention study was conducted to evaluate the effects of VOE (commercially known as Sleeproot) on sleep. The study was conducted on 80 subjects with mild insomnia where effects were evaluated on sleep parameters like actual sleep time, sleep latency, and sleep efficiency using wrist actigraphy device. Adverse events and serious adverse events were monitored throughout the 56 day study period.

Results: A total of 72 subjects (35 in the placebo group and 37 in the VOE group) out of 80 randomized participants finished the study and were used for efficacy evaluations. The VOE group showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in actual sleep time compared to the placebo group on day 1 and day 3 utilizing wrist actigraphy. Additionally on day 3, the VOE group demonstrated a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in sleep latency as compared to the placebo group. No significant changes in sleep efficiency were identified between the groups on days 1 and 3. No safety concerns were observed during the study.

Conclusions: Our study indicated a significant improvement in the actual sleep time after a single dose of Sleeproot and reduced sleep latency at day 3 of supplementation suggesting the effect of Valerian on sleep. These within-in days effects on sleep could be advantageous for those looking for an alternative to hormonal melatonin.

Funding Sources: OmniActive Health Technologies Ltd.