This study evaluated the effects of dietary supplementation with valerian (Valeriana officinalis) extract on growth performance, immune responses, and gene expression in common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Four experimental diets (V-0, V-0.25, V-0.5, and V-1) containing 0%, 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1% valerian extract were administered for 30 days. Dietary supplementation did not significantly influence growth performance (p > 0.05). Glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity remained unchanged except in the high-dose group (V-1), while malondialdehyde (MDA) activity was significantly reduced in the V-0.25 group (p < 0.05). Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity increased in the V-1 group (p < 0.05), whereas alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity decreased in the V-0.25 group (p < 0.05). Albumin (ALB) levels were elevated in the V-1 group (p < 0.05), while globulin (GLB) levels increased in all valerian-supplemented groups (p < 0.05). Creatinine (CRT) levels rose significantly only in the V-1 group (p < 0.05), and cholesterol levels decreased in the 0.5% and 1% groups (p < 0.05). Gene expression analysis revealed an increase in interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) expression in the V-0.5 group (p < 0.05) but reductions in IL-10 and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) in the V-0.25 group (p < 0.05). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) gene expression levels significantly decreased in the groups fed with 0.25% and 0.5% valerian extract (p < 0.05), while catalase (CAT) gene expression levels significantly decreased in the groups fed with 0.25% and 0.5% valerian extract (p < 0.05). GPX gene expression levels declined across all experimental groups (p < 0.05). Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) gene expression showed no significant changes (p > 0.05). These findings highlight the potential of valerian extract as a functional feed additive. However, further research with extended feeding durations and varying doses is required to understand its physiological effects in aquaculture better.

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