Abstract:

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) that belongs to Valerianceae family is a flowering plant native to Europe, and Asia and it is most commonly used for the treatment of insomnia and anxiety disorders. In this study, the antimicrobial activity and an antioxidant capacity of valerian collected from Ardahan region were investigated. Methanol/ethanol extracts of valerian were tested for antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeroginosa (ATCC 9027), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538), Bacillus megaterium (DSM 32), Escherichia coli, Yarrovia lipolytica, Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The measurements of glutathione (GSH) levels were done spectrophotometrically and total oxidant and antioxidant capacity (TOC and TAC, respectively) were performed by ELISA method. Antibacterial activity was found at different rate against test microorganisms used in this study. Additionally, GSH levels were higher in methanolic extracts than ethanolic extracts. Similarly, it was determined that TAC in the methanolic extract was much better than ethanolic extract. In conclusion, it has been concluded that the mechanism of action of antibacterial and antioxidative ingredients that determine beneficial effects of Valeriana officinalis should be supported by in vitro studies.

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