The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) recently consulted Natural Standard to discuss the available scientific evidence on various ingredients used in popular relaxation drinks.
In the article, "Relaxation Drinks: The Opposite of Energy Drinks" reporter Sarah Nassauer discusses the increased interest in relaxation drinks and the scientific evidence available for commonly used ingredients in these products with Dr. Catherine Ulbricht, Founder of the Natural Standard Research Collaboration.
Among the many ingredients included in relaxation drink products, melatonin, valerian root and L-theanine "appear reasonably safe for most adults, but users should check with a doctor or research how they might mix with other medications or pre-existing illnesses," Dr. Ulbricht told WSJ.
The use of valerian as a sedative and anti-anxiety treatment has been reported for more than 2,000 years, while melatonin has good supportive evidence for use as a sleep aid. Theanine has historically been used as a relaxing agent. Limited research suggests that theanine may have a slight relaxing effect but not significantly reduce anxiety. Additional research is needed in this area.
To read the full article please visit http://online.wsj.com.
For more information about valerian, melatonin or theanine, please visit Natural Standard's Foods, Herbs & Supplements Database.
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