5-HTP
5-HTP is a short term
for 5-Hydroxy Tryptophan. This is an important “precursor” to
seratonin. A precursor is a substance that precedes, and is the source,
of another substance. Seratonin is vital in many functions of the body.
5-HTP supports the production of melatonin, and assists in easing
stress and anxiety.
5-HTP is a natural extract from the seeds
of the Griffonia tree found in West African countries. Traditionally,
the African people use all parts of the tree for various maladies.
5-HTP
is generally well tolerated. However, light nausea and some mild
gastric disturbances could occur at first. Usually these symptoms
disappear quickly. If you experience continued disturbance, discuss
this with your health care professional.
Melatonin
Just
as the growth of plants is affected by the hours of daylight, so too,
are animals and humans affected. Darkness triggers production of
the hormone, melatonin, and causes the drowsy, sleepy feeling you get
which is your body’s signal it’s time to go to sleep. Bright light
halts the production of melatonin.
Melatonin is produced by
the pineal gland in the brain. It can also be produced by bone marrow
cells, the retina, and the gastrointestinal tract. Even plants, such as
rice, produce
melatonin. When you eat rice or other foods containing melatonin, it will reach and bind to sites in the brain.
In
addition to helping you sleep, melatonin is an antioxidant. It helps
protect DNA, protects the brain, and may play a role in increasing
longevity.
Melatonin is not toxic for the human body even when taken over a period of time. However, like all supplements, caution is advised against taking more than directed. High doses can cause complications.
Valerian Root
Valerian
has been used to improve people’s lives since the times of ancient
Greece and Rome. Hippocrates discussed its benefits, and Galen
prescribed Valerian as a remedy for insomnia.
Only the roots,
rhizomes and stolons (A horizontal stem which grows along the surface
of the soil) of the plants are used. The flowers of Valerian are quite
sweet-smelling, and can perfume your whole garden.
On the
other hand, the dried root has a pungent, unpleasant smell some people
say is like “dirty socks.” Herbalists often suggest Valerian root to
people who are nervous, anxious, and not sleeping well.
Gamma Amino Butyric Acid
Gamma
Amino Butyric Acid is usually called GABA. It is an amino acid
necessary for the action of certain cells. In adults, it is inhibitory
in action. That is, it inhibits certain substances from entering the
cells. It’s found primarily in the tissues of the nervous system.
GABA
functions as a neurotransmitter to prevent certain neurons from
over-reacting. This makes it possible for the brain to relax, and
reduces stress and anxiety.
Rhodiola Rosea Extract
Rhodiola
Rosea, sometimes called “golden root” or “roseroot,” grows in the dry
sandy areas of high mountains from Iceland through Siberia.
It was not named Rosea for its flower, but for the sweet, rose-like fragrance of the freshly cut root.
Until
the 1960s Rhodiola rosea was not well known in this country. For many
years, the people of the northern latitudes kept it a secret.
In
1725, the Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus gave the herb its modern name.
It was later determined that the plant extract was a powerful
adaptogen.
The term adaptogen is
used by herbalists to refer to a natural herb product, that is proposed
to increase the body's resistance to stress and anxiety. In the past,
they have been called “rejuvenating herbs.”
Passion Flower
The
Passion Flower is a frequent sight in many gardens. It is a delightful
vine, which can climb to 30 feet, and is covered with purple and white
flowers during the blooming season.
The unique flowers give
the plant its name. In 1609 Jacomo Bosio, a monk and scholar in Rome,
thought the shape of the flowers resembled the crown of thorns put upon
the head of Jesus. He felt it represented the mysteries of the cross
and the passion of Jesus.
Passion Flower was used for
centuries for people with anxiety, insomnia, and “hysteria.” Herbalists
today still use Passion Flower for people with occasional sleep
problems, tension and nervousness.
It is said that Passion Flower will bring sweet dreams to the user, but there is no scientific evidence to support this.
It
is generally well-tolerated by most people. People taking MAO
inhibitors or blood-thinning medication should consult with their
primary care provide before taking Melatrol.
Go ahead.
Order your supply of Melatrol Natural Sleep Aid now. Imagine how great
it will be to sleep deep and wake up feeling rested and refreshed.