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Seifritz E, Kasper S, Möller HJ, Volz HP, Müller WE, Eckert A, Hatzinger M. Effect of anxiolytic drug silexan on sleep - a narrative review. World J Biol Psychiatry 2022; 23:493-500. [PMID: 36259937 DOI: 10.1080/15622975.2021.2013092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Silexan is an orally administered, proprietary essential oil from Lavandula angustifolia with significant anxiolytic and sleep improving properties. Here we present a narrative review that provides an overview of the available evidence of the effects of silexan on sleep. METHODS We start with a summary of the pharmacological background and continue with presenting sleep-related results from controlled clinical trials with silexan. Then we report on a meta-analysis of item 'insomnia' from the Hamilton Anxiety Scale, which includes data from all randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trials with silexan in which the scale was administered. Finally, we summarise the results of a mediation analysis that was performed to elucidate the pathway of the effect of silexan on sleep. RESULTS In randomised, placebo-controlled trials in patients suffering from anxiety disorders silexan had a significant anxiolytic effect and improved sleep along with recovery from anxiety. Mediation analysis demonstrates that more than 98% of the effect of silexan on sleep was mediated by its anxiolytic effect while the direct effect on sleep was marginal. CONCLUSIONS Silexan improves sleep as a result of its anxiolytic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erich Seifritz
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Siegfried Kasper
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Center of Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hans-Jürgen Möller
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, Germany
| | - Hans-Peter Volz
- Hospital for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine Schloss Werneck, Werneck, Germany
| | - Walter E Müller
- Department of Pharmacology Biocenter, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Anne Eckert
- Transfaculty Research Platform MCN & Psychiatric University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Switzerland
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Xie D, Yao L, Huang Y, Wu S, Ma L, Li Y, Wang W. Anxiolytic Effect of Two Tobacco Essential Oils ( Nicotiana tabacum Linn.) on Mice. Molecules 2021; 26:4171. [PMID: 34299447 PMCID: PMC8306096 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26144171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum Linn.) is a famous traditional herb used in folk medicine. The essential oils of tobacco have been demonstrated in modern studies to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, while its anxiolytic effect has not been reported. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the anxiolytic effect of Yunnan tobacco essential oil (YTO) and Zimbabwe tobacco essential oil (ZTO) on mice. The constituents of YTO and ZTO were analyzed by GC/MS. The anxiolytic effect of YTO and ZTO (0.1%, 1%, and 10%, v/v) on male ICR mice was evaluated in the light-dark box test (LDB) and the elevated plus maze test (EPM) test via inhalation and transdermal administration. After the behavioral tests, salivary corticosterone levels in mice were measured. The behavioral analysis showed that the administration of both YTO and ZTO elevated the time that the mice spent in the light chamber in the LDB test compared to the untreated control. In the EPM test, YTO and ZTO increased the time spent in open arms and the number of entries into the open arms. In addition, both YTO and ZTO significantly decreased salivary corticosterone levels in mice (p ≤ 0.001). In summary, our results demonstrated that inhalation and transdermal administration of both YTO and ZTO showed anxiolytic effect on male ICR mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danqing Xie
- Department of Landscape Architecture, School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dong Chuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China; (D.X.); (L.Y.); (L.M.)
- R&D Center for Aromatic Plants, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dong Chuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Lei Yao
- Department of Landscape Architecture, School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dong Chuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China; (D.X.); (L.Y.); (L.M.)
- R&D Center for Aromatic Plants, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dong Chuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yan Huang
- Huabao Flavours & Fragrances Co., Ltd., 1299 Yecheng Road, Shanghai 201821, China; (Y.H.); (S.W.)
| | - Shuaifan Wu
- Huabao Flavours & Fragrances Co., Ltd., 1299 Yecheng Road, Shanghai 201821, China; (Y.H.); (S.W.)
| | - Li Ma
- Department of Landscape Architecture, School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dong Chuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China; (D.X.); (L.Y.); (L.M.)
- R&D Center for Aromatic Plants, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dong Chuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yuhong Li
- Department of Landscape Architecture, School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dong Chuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China; (D.X.); (L.Y.); (L.M.)
- R&D Center for Aromatic Plants, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dong Chuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Wencui Wang
- Department of Landscape Architecture, School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dong Chuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China; (D.X.); (L.Y.); (L.M.)
- R&D Center for Aromatic Plants, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dong Chuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
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Möller HJ, Volz HP, Seifritz E, Müller H, Kenntner-Mabiala R, Kaussner Y, Schoch S, Kasper S. Silexan does not affect driving performance after single and multiple dose applications: Results from a double-blind, placebo and reference-controlled study in healthy volunteers. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 136:543-551. [PMID: 33221027 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Anxiolytic drugs often have sedative effects that impair the ability to drive. Our double-blind, randomized crossover trial investigated the effect of Silexan, a non-sedating, anxiolytic herbal medicinal product, on driving performance in healthy volunteers. Part 1 aimed at demonstrating equivalence between 80 mg/d Silexan and placebo. Part 2 was performed to demonstrate superiority of 160 and 320 mg Silexan over 1 mg lorazepam and included a placebo arm for assay sensitivity. Driving performance was assessed in a validated, alcohol-calibrated simulator test. The primary outcome was the standard deviation of the lane position (SDLP). Secondary outcomes included driving errors and sleepiness. Fifty and 25 subjects were randomized in Parts 1 and 2, respectively. In Part 1, Silexan 80 mg was confirmed to be equivalent to placebo after single administration (equivalence range: δ = ±2 cm). The 95% confidence interval (CI) for the SDLP marginal mean value difference Silexan-placebo for single administration was -1.43; +1.38 and thus similar to the 95% CI of -1.45; +0.79 cm for 7 days' multiple dosing. In Part 2, 95% CIs for SDLP marginal mean value differences to lorazepam were -8.58; -5.42 cm for Silexan 160 mg and -8.65; -5.45 cm for 320 mg (p < 0.001). Confirmatory results were supported by secondary outcomes, where results for Silexan were comparable to placebo and more favorable than for lorazepam. The study demonstrates that single doses of up to 320 mg Silexan and multiple doses of 80 mg/d have no adverse effect on driving performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans-Jürgen Möller
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig Maximilian University, Nußbaumstraße 7, 80336 Munich, Germany.
| | - Hans-Peter Volz
- Hospital for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine Schloss Werneck, Balthasar-Neumann-Platz 1, 97440 Werneck, Germany
| | - Erich Seifritz
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich, Lenggstrasse 31, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Heiko Müller
- Dr. Willmar Schwabe GmbH & Co. KG, Willmar-Schwabe-Straße 4, 76227 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Ramona Kenntner-Mabiala
- Würzburg Institute for Traffic Sciences (WIVW), Robert-Bosch-Straße 4, 97209 Veitshöchheim, Germany
| | - Yvonne Kaussner
- Würzburg Institute for Traffic Sciences (WIVW), Robert-Bosch-Straße 4, 97209 Veitshöchheim, Germany; Department for General Practice, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Wurzburg, Josef-Schneider-Straße 2 / Haus D7, 97080 Wurzburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Schoch
- Würzburg Institute for Traffic Sciences (WIVW), Robert-Bosch-Straße 4, 97209 Veitshöchheim, Germany
| | - Siegfried Kasper
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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Seifritz E, Möller HJ, Volz HP, Müller WE, Hopyan T, Wacker A, Schläfke S, Kasper S. No Abuse Potential of Silexan in Healthy Recreational Drug Users: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 24:171-180. [PMID: 33300578 PMCID: PMC7968617 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyaa064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Silexan is a lavender essential oil with established anxiolytic and calming efficacy. Here we asked whether there is a potential for abuse in human patients. METHODS We carried out a phase I abuse liability single-center, double-blind, 5-way crossover study in healthy users of recreational central nervous system depressants. They received single oral doses of 80 mg (therapeutic dose) and 640 mg Silexan, 2 mg and 4 mg lorazepam (active control) and placebo in randomized order, with 4- to 14-day washout periods between treatments. Pharmacodynamic measures included validated visual analogue scales assessing positive, negative, and sedative drug effects and balance of effects; a short form of the Addiction Research Center Inventory; and a drug similarity assessment. The primary outcome measure was the individual maximum value on the drug liking visual analogue scale during 24 hours post-dose. RESULTS Forty participants were randomized and 34 were evaluable for pharmacodynamic outcomes. In intraindividual head-to-head comparisons of the drug liking visual analogue scale maximum value, both doses of Silexan were rated similar to placebo whereas differences were observed between Silexan and lorazepam and between placebo and lorazepam (P < .001). These data were supported by all secondary measures of positive drug effects and of balance of effects. Differences between placebo and both doses of Silexan were always negligible in magnitude. Moreover, Silexan showed no sedative effects and was not perceived to be similar to commonly used drugs that participants had used in the past. CONCLUSIONS Silexan did not exhibit any abuse potential in a standard abuse potential detection screen study and is unlikely to be recreationally abused.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erich Seifritz
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zürich, Switzerland
- Correspondence: Prof. Dr. Erich Seifritz, MD, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zürich, Lenggstrasse 31 / PO-Box 1931, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland, ()
| | - Hans-Jürgen Möller
- Clinic and Policlinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, Germany
| | - Hans-Peter Volz
- Hospital for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine Schloss Werneck, Werneck, Germany
| | - Walter E Müller
- Department of Pharmacology, Biocenter Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Talar Hopyan
- Scientific Affairs-Neuropsychology | Early Phase; Syneos Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Anna Wacker
- Dr. Willmar Schwabe GmbH & Co. KG, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | | | - Siegfried Kasper
- Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Friedland K, Silani G, Schuwald A, Stockburger C, Koch E, Nöldner M, Müller WE. Neurotrophic Properties of Silexan, an Essential Oil from the Flowers of Lavender-Preclinical Evidence for Antidepressant-Like Properties. PHARMACOPSYCHIATRY 2020; 54:37-46. [PMID: 33254260 DOI: 10.1055/a-1293-8585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Silexan, a special essential oil from flowering tops of lavandula angustifolia, is used to treat subsyndromal anxiety disorders. In a recent clinical trial, Silexan also showed antidepressant effects in patients suffering from mixed anxiety-depression (ICD-10 F41.2). Since preclinical data explaining antidepressant properties of Silexan are missing, we decided to investigate if Silexan also shows antidepressant-like effects in vitro as well as in vivo models. METHODS We used the forced swimming test (FST) in rats as a simple behavioral test indicative of antidepressant activity in vivo. As environmental events and other risk factors contribute to depression through converging molecular and cellular mechanisms that disrupt neuronal function and morphology-resulting in dysfunction of the circuitry that is essential for mood regulation and cognitive function-we investigated the neurotrophic properties of Silexan in neuronal cell lines and primary hippocampal neurons. RESULTS The antidepressant activity of Silexan (30 mg/kg BW) in the FST was comparable to the tricyclic antidepressant imipramine (20 mg/kg BW) after 9-day treatment. Silexan triggered neurite outgrowth and synaptogenesis in 2 different neuronal cell models and led to a significant increase in synaptogenesis in primary hippocampal neurons. Silexan led to a significant phosphorylation of protein kinase A and subsequent CREB phosphorylation. CONCLUSION Taken together, Silexan demonstrates antidepressant-like effects in cellular as well as animal models for antidepressant activity. Therefore, our data provides preclinical evidence for the clinical antidepressant effects of Silexan in patients with mixed depression and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Friedland
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute for Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Germany
| | - Giacomo Silani
- Department of Pharmacology, Biocenter, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Anita Schuwald
- Department of Pharmacology, Biocenter, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Carola Stockburger
- Department of Pharmacology, Biocenter, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Egon Koch
- Preclinical Research, Dr. Willmar Schwabe Pharmaceuticals, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Michael Nöldner
- Preclinical Research, Dr. Willmar Schwabe Pharmaceuticals, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Walter E Müller
- Department of Pharmacology, Biocenter, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Germany
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Müller WE, Sillani G, Schuwald A, Friedland K. Pharmacological basis of the anxiolytic and antidepressant properties of Silexan®, an essential oil from the flowers of lavender. Neurochem Int 2020; 143:104899. [PMID: 33181239 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2020.104899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Silexan®, a proprietary essential oil manufactured by steam distillation from Lavandula angustifolia flowers showed pronounced anxiolytic effects in patients with subthreshold anxiety disorders and was also efficacious in patients with Generalized Anxiety disorder (GAD). Moreover, evidences for antidepressant-like properties of Silexan® have been observed in anxious patients suffering from comorbid depressive symptoms and in patients with mixed anxiety-depression disorder (ICD-10 F41.2). In accordance with the clinical data Silexan® is active in several behavioral models in rodents at rather low concentrations indicating potent anxiolytic and antidepressive properties. As possible mechanism of action a moderate inhibition of voltage dependent calcium channels (VDCC) has been found showing some similarities to the anxiolytic drug pregabalin. However, while pregabalin mainly inhibits P/Q-type channels by binding to a modulatory subunit, Silexan® moderately inhibits mainly T-type and N-type channels and to some extent P/Q-type channels. Unlike pregabalin Silexan® is free of hypnotic or sedative side effects and seems to be devoid of any abuse potential. With respect to its specific antidepressant like properties Silexan® improves several aspects of neuroplasticity which seems to be the common final pathway of all antidepressant drugs. As a potential mechanism of its effects on neuroplasticity an activation of the transcription factor CREB via activation of intracellular signaling kinases like PKA and MAPK has been found. Since the concentrations of Silexan® needed to inhibit VDCC function and to improve neuroplasticity are quite similar, the effects of Silexan® on PKA or MAPK could constitute a common intracellular signaling cascade leading to VDCC modulation as well as CREB activation and improved neuroplasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter E Müller
- Department of Pharmacology, Biocenter, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Giacomo Sillani
- Department of Pharmacology, Biocenter, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Anita Schuwald
- Department of Pharmacology, Biocenter, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Kristina Friedland
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute for Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Germany
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Seifritz E, Schläfke S, Holsboer-Trachsler E. Beneficial effects of Silexan on sleep are mediated by its anxiolytic effect. J Psychiatr Res 2019; 115:69-74. [PMID: 31121394 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2019.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2018] [Revised: 04/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Disturbed sleep is among the most prevalent hyperarousal symptoms in anxiety disorders. Most drugs recommended for anxiety and insomnia have a sedating effect which is related to their beneficial effect on disturbed sleep. Silexan is a proprietary essential oil from Lavandula angustifolia. This drug has significant anxiolytic and sleep improving properties. Interestingly, these effects are not associated with sedation. Here we asked whether the positive effects on sleep are due to primary pharmacodynamic or secondary, disease related effects. We used the data from a double-blind, randomized study in which 212 patients were analyzed for efficacy after ten weeks' treatment with 80 mg/day Silexan or placebo. Anxiety and disturbed sleep were assessed using the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), respectively. Regression-based mediation analysis was employed to estimate direct treatment effects and indirect effects mediated by anxiety control separately for each study group. Sobel's test was used to investigate the extent to which the mediator (HAMA change) contributes to the total effect of the independent variable (treatment) on the dependent variable (PSQI change). Compared to placebo, Silexan significantly reduced the total scores of the HAMA (p < 0.001) and of the PSQI (p = 0.002) after ten weeks, with clinically meaningful treatment group differences that were observed already after two and six weeks for HAMA and PSQI, respectively. Silexan had a statistically meaningful indirect effect on sleep (mediated by the effect on anxiety; p < 0.001) but no appreciable direct effect (p = 0.958). The ratio between the indirect and the total effect was determined to be 0.984, i. e., 98.4% of the total effect of Silexan on disturbed sleep were explained by the effect of Silexan on the symptoms of anxiety whereas 1.6% were attributable to a direct effect. The results indicate that Silexan exerts a secondary sleep improving effect almost exclusively through its anxiolytic action rather than by sedation. Findings are consistent with the drug's assumed mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erich Seifritz
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich Lenggstrasse, 31/PO-Box 1931, 8032, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Sandra Schläfke
- Dr. Willmar Schwabe GmbH & Co. KG, Willmar-Schwabe-Straße 4, 76227, Karlsruhe, Germany.
| | - Edith Holsboer-Trachsler
- University of Basel, Psychiatric Clinics (UPK), Center for Affective, Stress and Sleep Disorders, Wilhelm Klein-Strasse 27, 4002, Basel, Switzerland.
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Möller HJ, Volz HP, Dienel A, Schläfke S, Kasper S. Efficacy of Silexan in subthreshold anxiety: meta-analysis of randomised, placebo-controlled trials. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2019; 269:183-193. [PMID: 29150713 PMCID: PMC6726711 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-017-0852-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Subthreshold psychiatric disorders do not fully meet the diagnostic criteria of syndromal disorders but may be associated with comparable disability. To investigate the anxiolytic effect of Silexan, an active substance from lavender oil for oral administration, in patients with subthreshold anxiety, a meta-analysis that included all published trials with Silexan in this indication was performed. Three randomised, placebo-controlled trials in subthreshold anxiety disorders (anxiety disorder not otherwise specified, restlessness and agitation, mixed anxiety and depressive disorder) were included. Eligible participants with a baseline Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA) total score ≥ 18 points received 1 × 80 mg/day Silexan or placebo for 10 weeks. Outcomes included the HAMA, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Zung Self-rating Anxiety Scale, the Clinical Global Impressions questionnaire and the SF-36 health status inventory. Data were analysed using meta-analysis based on pooled raw data of individual patients (random effects models). A total of 697 patients were assessed for efficacy. Silexan was superior to placebo in reducing the HAMA total score during 10 weeks' treatment [mean value difference, 95% confidence interval: 3.83 (1.28; 6.37) points]. Superiority was comparably pronounced for psychic and somatic anxiety as well as for observer- and self-rated anxiety. Silexan had a beneficial effect on sleep (secondary to the anxiolytic effect) without causing sedation and improved the patients' health-related quality of life. Adverse event incidence in both treatment groups was comparable [risk ratio: 1.06 (0.85; 1.33)]. Silexan has a significant and clinically meaningful anxiolytic effect in subthreshold anxiety. The results cannot be generalised to other lavender oil products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans-Jürgen Möller
- 0000 0004 1936 973Xgrid.5252.0Clinic and Polyclinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, Germany
| | - Hans-Peter Volz
- Hospital for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine Schloss Werneck, Werneck, Germany
| | - Angelika Dienel
- 0000 0004 0390 2958grid.476242.1Department of Clinical Research 1, Dr. Willmar Schwabe GmbH & Co. KG, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Sandra Schläfke
- 0000 0004 0390 2958grid.476242.1Department of Biostatistics, Dr. Willmar Schwabe GmbH & Co. KG, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Siegfried Kasper
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
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Lavandula angustifolia Essential Oil and Linalool Counteract Social Aversion Induced by Social Defeat. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23102694. [PMID: 30347669 PMCID: PMC6222471 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23102694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Many vegetable extracts, essential oils, and their main constituents are active on the Central Nervous System (CNS). In fact, they have been used as sedatives, hypnotics, or tranquilizers for their activity in treating CNS disorders. In this research, we studied the possible activities of Lavandula angustifolia (LA) essential oil and of its main constituent, linalool, as anti-stress compounds on anxiety and social interaction and their in vitro effects on proteins (pERK and PKA) involved in the transmission of the signal. An acute intraperitoneal injection of linalool (100 mg/kg) and of LA essential oil (200 mg/kg) reduced motor activity without any anxiolytic effect, but significantly increased social interaction. Stressed mice, after being exposed to a social defeat encounter, showed heightened anxiety and social avoidance. Acute administration of LA essential oil blocked stress-induced anxiety, while linalool showed no effects. However, both compounds were capable of reversing social aversion, acting as antidepressant agents. Our results showed that linalool inhibits pERK and PKA expression in the SH-SY5Y cell, but no effect was detected with the LA essential oil. Therefore, the LA essential oil and linalool may be considered as useful alternative tools to the available traditional treatments for social stress-induced mental illnesses.
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Kasper S, Müller WE, Volz HP, Möller HJ, Koch E, Dienel A. Silexan in anxiety disorders: Clinical data and pharmacological background. World J Biol Psychiatry 2018; 19:412-420. [PMID: 28511598 DOI: 10.1080/15622975.2017.1331046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Silexan is a lavender oil preparation available in 80-mg capsules. Here we review clinical trials investigating its anxiolytic efficacy, safety and tolerability in humans, as well as preclinical investigations supporting this therapeutic use. METHODS Besides three selected publications reporting preclinical investigations, seven clinical trials are included, of which five had a treatment duration of 6 or 10 weeks. Primary outcome measure was the HAM-A total score reduction, while single items were assessed with regard to effects on concomitant depressive symptoms and on quality of sleep. RESULTS In patients with subthreshold (subsyndromal) anxiety or generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), an anxiolytic effect of Silexan was evident after 2 weeks. HAM-A total score reductions between baseline and end of treatment were significantly superior to placebo in patients with subthreshold anxiety and comparable with those achieved under lorazepam or paroxetine in patients with GAD. In addition, Silexan had beneficial effects on typical concomitant symptoms of anxiety disorders, such as impaired sleep, somatic complaints, co-morbid depression or decreased quality of life. Except for mild gastrointestinal symptoms, Silexan did not induce any adverse effects and did not cause drug interactions, sedation or withdrawal symptoms at daily doses of 80 or 160 mg. CONCLUSIONS Silexan is a safe and effective treatment in anxiety disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siegfried Kasper
- a Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy , Medical University of Vienna , Vienna , Austria
| | - Walter E Müller
- b Department of Pharmacology Biocenter , Goethe-University , Frankfurt , Germany
| | - Hans-Peter Volz
- c Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine , Hospital for Psychiatry , Werneck , Germany
| | - Hans-Jürgen Möller
- d Clinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy , Ludwig Maximilians University , Munich , Germany
| | - Egon Koch
- e Research and Development Department, Dr. Willmar-Schwabe GmbH & Co. KG , Karlsruhe , Germany
| | - Angelika Dienel
- e Research and Development Department, Dr. Willmar-Schwabe GmbH & Co. KG , Karlsruhe , Germany
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Zhang K, Yao L. The anxiolytic effect of Juniperus virginiana L. essential oil and determination of its active constituents. Physiol Behav 2018; 189:50-58. [PMID: 29326032 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2018.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Revised: 01/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Essential oil from Juniperus virginiana L. (eastern red cedarwood essential oil, CWO) has been used to relax mind and enhance comfort for medical purposes. Few reports showed its effect on anxiety behaviors in animal models. The present study investigated the anxiolytic effect of CWO using two anxiety tests in mice, then determined the major active constituents, examined the change of neurotransmitters after intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration. Analysis using GC/MS revealed that the CWO contained (-)-α-cedrene (28.11%), (+)-β-cedrene (7.81%), (-)-thujopsene (17.71%) and (+)-cedrol (24.58%). CWO at 400-800mg/kg increased the percentage of open arm entries and the percentage of the time spent in open arms in the elevated plus maze (EPM), suggesting that the oil has anxiolytic effect. However, it didn't show anxiolytic effect in the light-dark box (LDB) test. Tests of the cedrene did not show anxiolytic effect in either test, but rather induced anxiety-related behaviors and inhibited the locomotor activity in EPM and LDB. Cedrol produced significant anxiolytic effect in both EPM and LDB tests at 400-1600mg/kg and 800-1600mg/kg, respectively. A more significant increase in locomotor activity was observed in cedrol at 200-1600mg/kg administration than CWO. CWO increased the 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) concentration at 800mg/kg, whereas it didn't affect the dopamine (DA) concentration. Cedrol significantly reduced the DA level at 100-200mg/kg and elevated the 5-HT level at 1200-1600mg/kg. Moreover, it changed the ratio of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid/5-HT and 3, 4-dihydroxyphenyl acetic acid/DA at 1200-1600mg/kg. CWO and cedrol, in particular might act in an anxiolytic effect through the 5-HTnergic and DAnergic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zhang
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Yao
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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Fedotova J, Kubatka P, Büsselberg D, Shleikin AG, Caprnda M, Dragasek J, Rodrigo L, Pohanka M, Gasparova I, Nosal V, Opatrilova R, Qaradakhi T, Zulli A, Kruzliak P. Therapeutical strategies for anxiety and anxiety-like disorders using plant-derived natural compounds and plant extracts. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 95:437-446. [PMID: 28863384 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.08.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 08/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Anxiety and anxiety-like disorders describe many mental disorders, yet fear is a common overwhelming symptom often leading to depression. Currently two basic strategies are discussed to treat anxiety: pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy. In the pharmacotherapeutical clinical approach, several conventional synthetic anxiolytic drugs are being used with several adverse effects. Therefore, studies to find suitable safe medicines from natural sources are being sought by researchers. The results of a plethora experimental studies demonstrated that dietary phytochemicals like alkaloids, terpenes, flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans, cinnamates, and saponins or various plant extracts with the mixture of different phytochemicals possess anxiolytic effects in a wide range of animal models of anxiety. The involved mechanisms of anxiolytics action include interaction with γ-aminobutyric acid A receptors at benzodiazepine (BZD) and non-BZD sites with various affinity to different subunits, serotonergic 5-hydrodytryptamine receptors, noradrenergic and dopaminergic systems, glutamate receptors, and cannabinoid receptors. This review focuses on the use of both plant-derived natural compounds and plant extracts with anxiolytic effects, describing their biological effects and clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Fedotova
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, I.P. Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia; Laboratory of Comparative Somnology and Neuroendocrinology, I.M. Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia; Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, ITMO University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Peter Kubatka
- Department of Medical Biology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia; Division of Oncology, Biomedical Center Martin, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | | | - Alexander G Shleikin
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, ITMO University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Martin Caprnda
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Jozef Dragasek
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University and University Hospital, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Luis Rodrigo
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oviedo, Central University Hospital of Asturia (HUCA), Oviedo, Spain
| | - Miroslav Pohanka
- Facultpy of Military Health Sciences, University of Defence, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Iveta Gasparova
- Institute of Biology, Genetics and Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and University Hospital, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Vladimir Nosal
- Clinic of Neurology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and University Hospital in Martin, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Radka Opatrilova
- Department of Chemical Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tawar Qaradakhi
- The Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health & Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Werribee Campus, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anthony Zulli
- The Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health & Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Werribee Campus, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Kruzliak
- Department of Chemical Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic.
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The Protective Effect of Lavender Essential Oil and Its Main Component Linalool against the Cognitive Deficits Induced by D-Galactose and Aluminum Trichloride in Mice. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 2017:7426538. [PMID: 28529531 PMCID: PMC5424179 DOI: 10.1155/2017/7426538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2016] [Revised: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Lavender essential oil (LO) is a traditional medicine used for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). It was extracted from Lavandula angustifolia Mill. This study was designed to investigate the effects of lavender essential oil (LO) and its active component, linalool (LI), against cognitive impairment induced by D-galactose (D-gal) and AlCl3 in mice and to explore the related mechanisms. Our results revealed that LO (100 mg/kg) or LI (100 mg/kg) significantly protected the cognitive impairments as assessed by the Morris water maze test and step-though test. The mechanisms study demonstrated that LO and LI significantly protected the decreased activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and protected the increased activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and content of malondialdehyde (MDA). Besides, they protected the suppressed nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression significantly. Moreover, the decreased expression of synapse plasticity-related proteins, calcium-calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), p-CaMKII, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and TrkB in the hippocampus were increased with drug treatment. In conclusion, LO and its active component LI have protected the oxidative stress, activity of cholinergic function and expression of proteins of Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, and synaptic plasticity. It suggest that LO, especially LI, could be a potential agent for improving cognitive impairment in AD.
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Xu P, Wang K, Lu C, Dong L, Gao L, Yan M, Aibai S, Liu X. Protective effect of lavender oil on scopolamine induced cognitive deficits in mice and H 2O 2 induced cytotoxicity in PC12 cells. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2016; 193:408-415. [PMID: 27558947 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Revised: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/20/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Lavender essential oil (LO), an aromatic liquid extracted from Lavandula angustifolia Mill., has been traditionally used in the treatments of many nervous system diseases, and recently LO also reported to be effective for the Alzheimer's disease (AD). AIM OF THE STUDY The improvement effect of lavender oil (LO) on the scopolamine-induced cognitive deficits in mice and H2O2 induced cytotoxicity in PC12 cells have been evaluated. The relevant mechanism was also researched from the perspective of antioxidant effect and cholinergic system modulation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Cognitive deficits were induced in C57BL/6J mice treated with scopolamine (1mg/kg, i.p.) and were assessed by Morris water maze (MWM) and step-through passive avoidance tests. Then their hippocampus were removed for biochemical assays (acetylcholinesterase (AChE), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and malondialdehyde (MDA)). In vitro, the cytotoxicity were induced by 4h exposure to H2O2 in PC12 and evaluated by cell viability (MTT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level, nitric oxide (NO) release, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). RESULTS The results demonstrated that LO (100mg/kg) could improve the cognitive performance of scopolamine induced mice in behavioral tests. Meanwhile, it significantly decreased the AChE activity, MDA level, and increase SOD and GPX activities of the model. Moreover, LO (12μg/mL) protected PC12 cells from H2O2 induced cytotoxicity by reducing LDH, NO release, intracellular ROS accumulation and MMP loss. CONCLUSIONS It was suggested that LO could show neuroprotective effect in AD model in vivo (scopolamine-treated mice) and in vitro (H2O2 induced PC12 cells) via modulating oxidative stress and AChE activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Xu
- Research Center of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development (IMPLAD), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Kezhu Wang
- Research Center of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development (IMPLAD), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Cong Lu
- Research Center of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development (IMPLAD), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Liming Dong
- Research Center of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development (IMPLAD), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Li Gao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Xinjiang Institute of Traditional Uighur Medicine, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830049, China
| | - Ming Yan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Xinjiang Institute of Traditional Uighur Medicine, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830049, China
| | - Silafu Aibai
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Xinjiang Institute of Traditional Uighur Medicine, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830049, China
| | - Xinmin Liu
- Research Center of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development (IMPLAD), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China.
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A Systematic Review of the Anxiolytic-Like Effects of Essential Oils in Animal Models. Molecules 2015; 20:18620-60. [PMID: 26473822 PMCID: PMC6332383 DOI: 10.3390/molecules201018620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2015] [Revised: 09/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The clinical efficacy of standardized essential oils (such as Lavender officinalis), in treating anxiety disorders strongly suggests that these natural products are an important candidate source for new anxiolytic drugs. A systematic review of essential oils, their bioactive constituents, and anxiolytic-like activity is conducted. The essential oil with the best profile is Lavendula angustifolia, which has already been tested in controlled clinical trials with positive results. Citrus aurantium using different routes of administration also showed significant effects in several animal models, and was corroborated by different research groups. Other promising essential oils are Citrus sinensis and bergamot oil, which showed certain clinical anxiolytic actions; along with Achillea wilhemsii, Alpinia zerumbet, Citrus aurantium, and Spiranthera odoratissima, which, like Lavendula angustifolia, appear to exert anxiolytic-like effects without GABA/benzodiazepine activity, thus differing in their mechanisms of action from the benzodiazepines. The anxiolytic activity of 25 compounds commonly found in essential oils is also discussed.
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Ogawa K, Miyoshi T, Kitayama T, Ito M. Locomotor-reducing effects and structural characteristics of inhaled zerumbone and tetrahydrozerumbone derivatives. Biol Pharm Bull 2014; 37:1559-63. [PMID: 25177038 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b14-00314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Zerumbone 1 is an 11-membered cyclic sesquiterpene obtained from the rhizomes of Zingiber zerumbet SMITH (Zingiberaceae). In this study, we investigated the structure-activity relationship of 1, α-humulene (2), tetrahydrozerumbone stereoisomers (3-5), and tetrahydrozerumbone derivatives (6-9). The oxygen-containing functional groups and the configurations at C1 and C2 contributed to the spontaneous locomotor activity reduction of zerumbone 1 and derivatives 2-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kakuyou Ogawa
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University
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