Melatonin
Melatonin is secreted by the pineal gland, a pea-size structure at the center of the brain. Its secretion is stimulated by the dark and inhibited by light. Melatonin helps our bodies regulate our sleep-wake cycles. Interestingly, the amount of melatonin produced by our body seems to lessen as we get older. Scientists believe this may be why young people have less problem sleeping than older people.
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Chamomile
One of the safest medicinal herbs, chamomile is a soothing, gentle relaxant that has been shown to work for a variety of complaints from stress to menstrual cramps. Although best known as a muscle relaxant and antispasmodic, chamomile also has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory capabilities. Chamomile has been shown to promote general relaxation and relieve stress. Animal studies show that chamomile contains substances that act on the same parts of the brain and nervous system as anti-anxiety drugs. Chamomile also helps to control insomnia. Chamomile's mildly sedating and muscle-relaxing effects can help those who suffer from insomnia to fall asleep more easily.
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Passion Flower
Passion Flower has a depressant effect on the activity of the central nervous system. It is used for its sedative and soothing properties, to lower blood pressure, prevent tachycardia and for insomnia. Passion flower has recently been shown to have sedative activity in animals. It is the herb of choice for treating intransigent insomnia. It aids the transition into a restful sleep without any lasting effects after waking.
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Valerian Root
Valerian root has been used as a sleep aid for over 1,000 years. The plant was so valued in medieval times as a remedy, that it was known by the name, "All Heal." Its ability to help relax the central nervous system, promote feelings of calm, decrease levels of anxiety and stress, and enhance sleep are known to millions the world over. Unlike some prescription sleep aids, valerian is not known to cause morning grogginess and is non-addictive. Valerian root is believed to decrease the time it takes for a person to fall asleep and also to improve sleep quality.
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Lavender
Lavender is most often found in soaps, shampoos, and aromatics due to its wonderful scent; in fact the name lavender comes from the Latin root lavare, which means "to wash." Lavender most likely earned this name because it was frequently used in baths to help purify the body and spirit. However, this herb is also considered a natural remedy for a range of ailments from insomnia and anxiety to depression and mood disturbances. Recent studies prove hundreds of years of anecdotal evidence showing that lavender produces calming, soothing, and sedative effects. Since the middle ages pillows have been filled with lavender to help the restless fall sleep. There is now scientific evidence to suggest that lavender actually slows the activity of the nervous system, improves sleep quality, promotes relaxation, and lifts mood in people suffering from sleep disorders. Lavender has even been approved by Germany's Commission E (similar to our FDA) as a treatment for insomnia, restlessness, and nervous stomach irritations.
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Lemon Balm
Lemon balm doesn't actually come from lemons; rather, it is a lemon scented member of the mint family. As far back as the ancient Greeks this plant was recognized for both its soothing smell and its medicinal properties. The Greek physician Dioscorides would apply lemon balm to scorpion or animal bites for its antibacterial properties, and then give the patient wine infused with lemon balm to calm their nerves. This calming affect has often been noted throughout the years. The esteemed British herbalist Nicholas Culpeper said in the mid-1600s "[lemon balm] causeth the mind and heart to be Merry...and driveth away all troublesome cares." It has a slightly sedative effect, and can be helpful in lowering fever, relaxing spasms and improving digestion. In 2003 researchers in the United Kingdom found that it can also help strengthen long-term memory.
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Other Ingredients
Magnesium Stearate, Whey(milk), Dicalcium Phosphate, and Gelatin
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