Dogbane (Apocynum venetum) is also sometimes called luobuma. Evidence suggests that extracts of the herb have particular sedative and anxiolytic effects. In a review of the herb, researchers found evidence that dogbane possesses a wide range of pharmaceutical effects including antihypertensive, cardiotonic, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, lipid-lowering, antidepressant sedative and anxiolytic properties. These wide ranging effects explain the use of dogbane as a general tonic in traditional Chinese medicine. The researchers suggested that the pharmacological effects of dogbane relate to the presence of a number of flavonoids in the plant, which include the flavonols kaempferol and quercetin. The researchers also suggested that studies show that dogbane extracts are safe for long term use, with no adverse effects reported at doses of 50 mg per person per day for up to three years. These observations support other studies to show that flavonoid rich plants are effective at treating mood disorders.
Flavonoids such as kaempferol and quercetin may explain the effects that dogbane (Apocynum venetum) has on the central nervous system. These effects can include anxiolytic and sedative effects.
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