4. GABA
It’s a gabaergic supplement for treating sleep problems, improve mood and relieve stress.
Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) is an amino acid synthesized in the brain from Vitamin B6 and glutamate. It is calming neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and prevents excessive stimulation of Glutamate.
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5. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a small shrub that grows in the Middle East, India, and parts of Africa. It is the root and berry we use for medicinal purposes.
It is primarily used for stress relief and as an adaptogen for many conditions. A study showed that Ashwagandha had a notable positive effect on sleep for the participants. There is additional evidence that this supplement can improve mood and reduce anxiety; and, to a lesser degree, nervousness, physical performance, and mindfulness. As these tend to war against sound sleep, it makes sense that a supplement that can calm the brain and reduce blood pressure can also ensure sound sleep.
SUMMARY
Ashwagandha is a supplement that has been shown to calm the brain and reduce blood pressure. This enables it to reduce anxiety and stress and improve mood and sleep.
6. Turmeric
The substance in turmeric that gives it that bright yellow color is called curcumin, and it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can significantly impact your health. Curcumin can reduce stress and sleep deprivation, as well as many other conditions.
A study used the Ayurvedic remedy on sleep-deprived mice. Curcumin protected these mice from the damage and altered behaviors of 72 hours of sleep deprivation. Over five days, they found that it prevented the impaired movement and reduced the anxiety-like effects of a severe lack of sleep.
Further, a 2006 study showed that curcumin inhibited the secretion of cortisol (the stress hormone) in the body.
SUMMARY
Turmeric contains curcumin, this a substance that has been proved to reduce anxiety and stress in the body at the chemical level. It protects the body from the ill-effects of sleep-deprivation. While curcumin doesn’t induce sleep, it does reduce some of the barriers to sound sleep.
7. Lion’s Mane
Lion’s mane, Hericium Erinaceus, is a mushroom with medicinal properties, used for many years in Asian countries, like India, China, Japan, and Korea. Of course, now a well-known nootropic.
In animal studies, Lion’s mane is seen reducing the symptoms of stress and depression in mice. In fact, one study referred to the effects of lion’s mane as ‘antidepressant-like’ because there is a direct connection between depression and inflammation in the body. Lion’s mane is anti-inflammatory.
SUMMARY
Lion’s mane fights inflammation in the body, which has a connection to depression and stress. As stress and depression are both indicated in insomnia and disrupted sleep, lion’s mane may help provide sleep by eliminating its adversaries.
Related: How To Stop Overthinking: A Simple Guide to Help You Relax
8. Tulsi
Tulsi, also called Holy Basil, is not new on the scene. This ancient Indian herb can much more for you than help you to sleep. In the Ayurvedic system, Holy Basil is referred to as ‘The Elixir of Life’ because of its broad healing properties. It has been used for thousands of years to promote spiritual awareness and longevity, as well as healing physical pains. But Holy Basil is best known for its calming properties and ability to reduce stress.
The effect of stress is significant on our ability to fall asleep and to stay asleep. Holy Basil can lower elevated cortisol and regulate your blood sugar. This can significantly help to normalize your sleep cycle. There are many studies to prove it’s safe and effective in humans for various diseases and conditions.
SUMMARY
Tulsi has broad healing properties. Among its many benefits, it can significantly reduce cortisol levels and regulate blood sugar. With lowered cortisol in the body, you can achieve more restful sleep.
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Final Thoughts
We all know how important sleep is to our mental and physical well-being, but sometimes we don’t prioritize it. Well done for reading up on nootropics that can help you achieve optimal sleep and better overall health. Our bodies are all different, so often, our responses to supplements vary. Do your research and try those that stand out. Don’t be disheartened if one doesn’t work for you. Try another.