In a world of overstimulation, blue light, and high stress, more people than ever are turning to natural sleep aids. But not all "natural ingredients" are created equal — and only a few are scientifically backed to support better, deeper sleep.
At Nutreska, we carefully formulate our products using ingredients that are clinically studied and trusted by experts to promote sleep, calm the mind, and support your body’s natural rhythms. Here are 7 powerful natural sleep ingredients that actually work — and the science to back them up.
1. Melatonin (1mg — The Smart Dose)
Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by your brain’s pineal gland to regulate your sleep-wake cycle. While many supplements overload you with 5–10mg, studies show that 1mg is just as effective — and much safer for long-term use.
✅ Supports your circadian rhythm
✅ Helps you fall asleep faster, especially after jet lag or shift changes
✅ Less risk of side effects like grogginess or vivid dreams
🧪 A 2001 study found that 0.3mg of melatonin was just as effective as 3mg in helping older adults fall asleep — with fewer side effects.
Source: NIH / Sleep Medicine Reviews
2. Valerian Root Extract
Used since ancient Greece, valerian root has calming properties that help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. It increases GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a chemical that promotes relaxation in the brain.
✅ Naturally sedative without causing dependence
✅ Especially helpful for stress-related sleep troubles
🧪 A meta-analysis of 16 studies found valerian significantly improved sleep quality without major side effects.
Source: National Library of Medicine
3. Chamomile Extract
Chamomile isn’t just for tea. It contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to GABA receptors in the brain, producing a calming effect.
✅ Reduces mild insomnia and anxiety
✅ Non-habit-forming and safe for daily use
✅ Helps improve overall sleep quality
🧪 A 2011 study in postpartum women found chamomile significantly reduced sleep disturbances.
Source: PubMed
4. GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)
GABA is a neurotransmitter that slows brain activity, helping you transition into sleep mode. Supplementing with GABA has been shown to reduce anxiety, lower stress levels, and support deep sleep.
✅ Helps your mind stop racing before bed
✅ Improves sleep latency (time it takes to fall asleep)
🧪 A 2018 study found GABA supplementation reduced sleep latency and improved sleep duration.
Source: Frontiers in Neuroscience
5. L-Theanine
Commonly found in green tea, L-Theanine promotes relaxation without drowsiness. It works by increasing alpha brain waves, the same kind produced during meditation.
✅ Eases anxiety and restlessness
✅ Boosts the effectiveness of melatonin
✅ Encourages a calm, focused state
🧪 Research shows L-Theanine may enhance sleep efficiency and quality.
Source: National Library of Medicine
6. Passiflora (Passionflower)
Passionflower is a traditional herbal remedy known for its calming properties. It helps increase GABA levels in the brain, promoting a sense of relaxation and improved sleep quality.
✅ Naturally soothes nervous tension and anxiety
✅ Reduces sleep onset time and helps you stay asleep longer
🧪 A clinical study found Passionflower tea significantly improved sleep quality in adults with mild sleep disturbances.
Source: Phytotherapy Research
7. Lavender Extract
Lavender is one of the most well-known herbs for calming the nervous system. Its relaxing aroma has been proven to enhance deep sleep and reduce anxiety.
✅ Calms the nervous system naturally
✅ Improves slow-wave (deep) sleep and relaxation
✅ Works aromatically and orally in supplement form
🧪 A study found that oral lavender oil significantly improved sleep and reduced anxiety in adults with mild insomnia.
Source: National Library of Medicine
💤 Bonus Mentions
Lemon Balm and Magnesium also remain strong contenders — both known for their ability to calm the nervous system and regulate mood, helping prepare the body for sleep.
✨ The Nutreska Difference
At Nutreska, we combine these proven ingredients in smart, synergistic doses to help you fall asleep naturally — and wake up without the crash.
Our formulas are:
- 🛌 Non-habit forming
- 🌿 Made with science-backed ingredients
- 😌 Designed to promote deep, restorative sleep
