Somnien Reviewed

5-HTP is short for 5-Hydroxytryptophan, which is an amino acid. As a transitional component in tryptophan metabolism, 5-HTP is also a compound which in the metabolic pathway precedes the monoamine neurotransmitter serotonin. As a dietary supplement, 5-HTP is suggested for use as an antidepressant, sleeping aid, but also as an appetite suppressant. Vitamin B6 helps 5-HTP decarboxylate into serotonin, with assistance of a lyase enzyme, namely the aromatic L amino acid decarboxylase. The theory is that 5-HTP, when ingested as a supplement, leads to increased serotonin production. While mainly being used as an appetite suppressant in the body building community, it also improves cognitive abilities, but also endurance and stamina. While there are some concerns in use of 5-HTP and MAO inhibitors in combination, sensitive users report only positive effects, that is why it was included in Somnien.

Inositol is a carbocyclic polyol found in fiber rich food items such as bran, wheat or legume. Even though it is a form of sugar, it works differently from glucose. With the help of several nutrients and vitamins like B6 and B12, inositol controls fat accumulation in the liver. It is also effective in the treatment of diabetes, low blood cholesterol levels and liver problems. This essential component helps in the formation of cell membrane that allows passage of molecules in and out of the cells. It also affects the signaling molecules of the body and is important for pleasure (serotonin) activity of the brain. Some of the good sources of inositol are kidney beans, cereals with bran content and fruits like oranges and cantaloupes.

Passion Flower- Passion vines, or Passiflora, are a 500 species strong genus of flowering plants that all belong to the family of Passifloraceae. While most of the plants are classified as vines, there are also some shrubs and herbaceous plants that can be found. With the exception of Europe and Africa, as well as Antarctica, these plants are found all over the rest of the world. While the passion flower is mostly known for the Maracuja, or Passiflora edulis, the passion fruit, the vines of some species in this genus are known to have properties that have been used by Native Americans for treatment of insomnia, epilepsy and hysteria, as noted with Passiflora incarnata. Many other species contain beta carboline harmala alkaloids, which function as monoamine oxidase inhibitors and are powerful antidepressants.

Valerian Root is a perennial plant, which can bloom into pink and white flowers that have a scent perceived as sweetly. It can be found in Europe and some areas in Asia, recently also in North America, where it has been imported. The sedative and anxiolytic properties of the valerian roots have been known to mankind for centuries. Valerian root extracts contain many pharmacologically active substances, some which are valeric acid, GABA, isovaleramide, valerine, valerianine, actinidine, an essential oil that contains sesquiterpenes, and many more. Since that valerian has been used as a pain reliever, anti convulsant, a sedative and for migraine treatment, the primary use has been always related to the GABA receptor system. It has been recommended as a potent sleeping agent.