Preparation of valerian (Valeriana officinalis) extract powder and its sleep potentiating activity

In this study, extraction conditions and spray drying conditions were established for the preparation of valerian extract powder with sleep activity. When 80% ethanol was used for extraction of valerian, valerenic acid content as an active ingredient was higher than the concentrations of other components in the ethanol extract. However, differences in contents of the extracts were not significant compared with the 60% ethanol extract. Therefore, 60% ethanol extract was most suitable when considering production costs. The maximum spray dried yield was obtained at an inlet heating temperature of 170°C and atomized speed of 20,000 rpm. High dose administration of valerian extract (80 mg/kg) resulted in significant differences in sleep latency time and total sleep time compared to the control (P<0.05). Valerian extract powder, which was produced under optimal extraction and spray drying conditions, showed sleep potentiating activity in a pentobarbital-induced model.