Melatonin Information and Side Effects
Melatonin is a hormone manufactured by the pineal gland, a small gland located in the center of the brain. Melatonin synthesis is stimulated by darkness and suppressed by light. Increases in the level of melatonin causes the body to feel less alert. Basically what that means is… melatonin plays an important role in inducing sleep. Two factors are needed for the pineal gland to produce melatonin. It must be the right time...
Passion Flower: Benefits and Facts
Passion Flower grows on long vines in shaded, woody areas of the United States. The plant was named “Passion Flower” by Spanish explorers who thought that its flowers resembled three nails and a crown of thorns, reminding them of the Passion of Christ. The plant produces edible fruits; while the aerial parts are dried and used medicinally. Passion Flower is used as a mild sedative and sleep aid. Although few clinical...
Valerian Root: Benefits and Side Effects Of This Natural Sleep Aid!
What is Valerian Root? Valerian is a perennial plant that has been used as an herbal remedy since the time of the Ancient Greeks, who used it to treat digestive problems. The herb grows in damp areas throughout the Americas, Europe and northern Asia. Valerian root has been used for centuries to treat nervous system disorders, and it is commonly used as a sleep aid as well. Valerian root extracts contain a number of biologically active...
Kava Sedative Review: Information And Side Effects
Kava (also commonly referred to as “kava kava”) is a plant in the pepper family. The herbal preparation known as kava is derived from the kava plant and is native to the South Pacific. Kava has been used traditionally to make a drink consumed during tribal ceremonies to help people attain a state of higher consciousness. The kava drink was taken regularly by tribal elders, who also offered it to important visitors. In...
GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) Review: Benefits and Information
GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a non-protein amino acid that functions as a neurotransmitter (a chemical that facilitates communication between neurons). Neurotransmitters are either “excitatory” (i.e. they stimulate the firing of a neuron) or “inhibitory” (i.e., they tend to suppress neuron firing). GABA, which is produced from glutamate, is an inhibitory neurotransmitter. In fact, it’s the primary...
Chamomile & Chamomile Tea: Benefits and Information
If you are a tea connoisseur or a fan of calming, warm drinks that settle you down before bedtime, you are probably familiar with chamomile. Chamomile tea is a popular drink, thanks to its mild, fruity flavor and capacity to soothe one’s nerves. The word “chamomile” is derived from the Greek terms for “on the ground” (kamai) and apple (melon). There are actually two kinds of chamomile: German chamomile...
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