Sleep issues come in two main forms: A) falling asleep and B) staying asleep (sleep maintenance). Below we’ve listed out twenty ingredients that can serve as sleep aids. Everyone is different and ingredients that work for some, will not work for others. It’s important to try ingredients independently to find out which are best for you.
- Melatonin: A hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and signals the body to prepare for sleep.
- Valerian Root: Acts as a sedative and helps calm the nervous system, promoting relaxation and sleep.
- Magnesium: Helps relax muscles, reduce stress, and support neurotransmitter function for better sleep quality.
- L-theanine: Promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety, and enhances sleep quality by increasing alpha brain waves.
- Chamomile: Contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to certain receptors in the brain to induce sleepiness and reduce anxiety.
- Passionflower: Boosts levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep and reduce anxiety.
- 5-HTP: Increases serotonin levels, which plays a role in regulating sleep, mood, and relaxation.
- GABA: Acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, calming the nervous system and promoting relaxation and sleep.
- Glycine: Enhances sleep quality by reducing body temperature, decreasing core body movement, and promoting deep sleep.
- Ashwagandha: Reduces stress and anxiety, aiding in relaxation and improving sleep quality.
- Lemon Balm: Calms the nervous system, reduces anxiety, and promotes better sleep.
- Hops: Contains compounds that have sedative effects and can help improve sleep quality.
- Skullcap: Promotes relaxation and may help alleviate insomnia and nervous tension.
- California Poppy: Has sedative properties and can help promote relaxation and better sleep.
- Lavender: Known for its soothing scent, lavender can reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm before sleep.
- Tart Cherry Juice: Contains melatonin and may help regulate sleep-wake cycles and improve sleep duration.
- Vitamin B6: Plays a role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and GABA, promoting sleep and relaxation.
- Rhodiola Rosea: Reduces stress and fatigue, which can indirectly support better sleep quality.
- Lemon Verbena: Calms the nervous system, reduces anxiety, and can aid in improving sleep quality.
- Magnolia Bark Extract: Contains compounds that can promote relaxation, reduce stress, and support better sleep.
