Melatonin- Just as the development of plants is impacted by the minutes of daylight, so too, are animals and humans affected. Darkness sparks production of the hormone, melatonin, and causes the drowsy, sleepy feeling you get. This is your body signaling it is time to go to sleep. Bright light blocks the production of melatonin.

Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It can also be produced by bone marrow cells, the retina, and the gastrointestinal tract. Even plants, such as rice, produce melatonin. When you consume rice or additional foods containing melatonin, it will reach and bind to sites in the brain.

In addition to assisting you sleep, melatonin is an antioxidant. It assists in protecting DNA, protects the brain, and might play a role in increasing longevity.

Melatonin is SAFE for the human body even when taken over time. Even so, like all supplements, precaution is advised against taking more than directed. High doses could cause complications.

5-HTP 5-HTP is a short term for 5-Hydroxy Tryptophan. This is an important "precursor" to serotonin. A precursor is a substance that precedes, and is the origin, of another ingredient. Serotonin is critical in numerous functions of the body. 5-HTP supports the production of melatonin, and aids in easing stress and anxiety levels.

5-HTP is a natural extract from the seeds of the Griffonia tree found in West African countries.

5-HTP is generally well tolerated.

Valerian Root - Valerian has been used to improve individuals lives since the times of Christ. Hippocrates may have discussed its benefits.

Just the stolons (A horizontal stem which grows along the surface of the soil), rhizomes and roots of the plants are used. The flowers of Valerian are very sweet-smelling, and spread an entire fragrance across your entire garden.

But then, when the root is dried out it carries a pungent, objectionable smell some folks say is like dirty gym socks. Herbalists frequently advise Valerian root to individuals who are anxious, nervous and not sleeping well, but the smell keeps many from ever trying it.

Gamma Amino Butyric Acid - Gamma Amino Butyric Acid is generally called GABA. It's an amino acid essential for the action of certain cells. In adults, it is repressive in action. It inhibits certain substances from getting into the cells. It is primarily located in the tissues of the nervous system.

GABA operates as a neurotransmitter to keep certain neurons from over reacting. This is when the brain has its best chance of relaxing, because the GABA has reduced the amount stress and anxiety that the brain has had to contend with.

Rhodiola Rosea Extract - Rhodiola Rosea, sometimes called "roseroot" or "the golden root", originates in the arid sandy areas of high mountains from Iceland all the way through Siberia.It wasn't named Rosea for its flower however, but for the sweet rose-like fragrance of the freshly cut roots.

Until the 60's Rhodiola Rosea wasn't even well known in the United States. For numerous years, the people of the northern latitudes kept it to themselves.

Around the year 1700, the Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus gave the Rhodiola its modern name. It was later ascertained that the plant extract was a powerful adaptogen.The term adaptogen is used by herbalists, it refers to a natural herb product that is supposed to raise the body's immunity to anxiety and stress. In the past, they've been called "regenerating herbs."

The Passion Flower - The Passion Flower is a common sight in many of the worlds gardens. It is an amazing vine, which routinely climbs to 30 feet, and is covered with beautiful purple and white flowers during its blossom.

The unique flowers give the plant its name. Around 1600 Bosio, a scholar in Europe, thought the shape of the flower resembled the crown of thorns that was placed upon the head of Jesus. He felt it represented the passion of Jesus Christ and the mysteries of the cross.

Passion Flowers were used for 100's of years by folks with sleeplessness, anxiety, and hysteria. Individuals still use the Passion Flower for tension, sleep problems and nervousness. It's said the Passion Flower will bring sweet dreams to whomever uses it, but there is not any scientific evidence supporting this.