MOOD

A naturally occurring amino acid first discovered in green tea, it’s a well-known anti-anxiety supplement with proven relaxation benefits, which is thought to be the result of L-theanine’s interaction with many neurotransmitters in the brain including serotonin, dopamine, and glutamine. Recent research points to its ability to reduce resting heart rate as another reason why it can be effective at promoting relaxation. ¹

Phytotherapy has recently come to light as alternative treatments for mood disorders. One potential candidate is saffron (Crocus sativus L.), whose main bioactive components are crocins and safranal. Analysis indicated a significant decrease in negative mood and symptoms related to stress and anxiety. ² ³

Green tea is traditionally known to induce mental clarity, cognitive function, physical activation and relaxation. One reviewed study presented evidence that green tea influences psychopathological symptoms (e.g. reduction of anxiety), cognition (e.g. benefits in memory and attention) and brain function (e.g. activation of working memory seen in functional MRI). ⁴ ⁵

A unique and mysterious amino acid that acts to promote a calm focus through regulating the traffic of our neurotransmitters. GABA works by reducing the ‘noise’ of overthinking and allows the brain to relax.

Ginseng has been shown to effectively promote immune response and the hormonal changes due to stress, thus maintaining homeostasis. In addition to promoting the suppression of the occurrence of psychological diseases such as anxiety and depression, ginseng also combats stress-associated physiological diseases. ⁶

According to the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, holy basil has anti-anxiety properties comparable to low grade diazepam.⁷ ⁸

Supplementing with Holy Basil can also increase levels of dopamine, is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), and inhibits acetylcholinesterase (AChE) which boosts acetylcholine.⁹

W. somnifera is used in Ayurveda toward promoting health and longevity, slowing the aging process, revitalizing the body, reducing anxiety, and creating a general sense of well‐being.¹⁰