Holistic Sleep

Protecting You Against Sleep Deprivation

Getting enough rest at night is critical in leading a healthy and well-balanced life. Sleep is necessary for our minds and bodies to function normally. Effects of sleep deprivation include: weight gain, depression, heart disease and irritability (American Academy of Sleep Medicine). Out of 350 million Americans, 58% are estimated to experience insomnia symptoms or sleep disorders (Sleep Magazine). Prescription sleep aid sales are estimated at about $10-12 billion per year (Information Resources, Inc). WILD provides functional ingredients and blends to promote relaxation and help improve the quality of sleep.

WILD Flavors, Inc. has a line of H.I.T.S. -- Health Ingredient Technology & Solutions® -- which provides a wide variety of health ingredients and concepts that address the latest health concerns of consumers while continuing to provide great taste.

_{Gamma Amino Butryic Acid (GABA)}

GABA is an amino acid that is found in the nervous system. Studies have shown it acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter that prevents the over-firing of nerve cells and promotes calmness. GABA is commonly used to help reduce stress and tension. It is also known to promote mental acuity.

^L-Theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid commonly found in green tea. Some studies have shown it penetrates the brain and produces significant increases in concentrations of the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. Low levels of both serotonin and dopamine are associated with signs of depression. L-theanine promotes relaxation by increasing the production of GABA.

_Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone secreted from the pineal gland in the brain. It is synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan via serotonin. Production of melatonin is controlled by the level of light and increases in the dark. Melatonin may alleviate the symptoms associated with jet lag and circadian rhythm. Suggest a warning label on the product to state: "Will cause drowsiness; do not drive or operate heavy machinery."

_{Valerian Root Extract}

Valerian is a perennial plant native to Europe and Asia. It has been used as a medicinal herb since ancient Rome and Greece. Valerian may influence the availability of GABA in the body by increasing its production, decreasing its absorption, or
slowing its breakdown. Studies have shown that valerian helps reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and improves the quality of sleep itself.

_{5-Hydroxytryptophan}

5-hydroxytryptophan is an amino acid found in the plant Griffonia simplicifolia. It is a naturally produced precursor to the brain chemical serotonin. Low levels of serotonin in the brain are associated with signs of depression.

_{Passionflower Extract}

Passionflower is native to North America. It has been widely used by the Aztecs as a sedative. Flavonoids and other active compounds in passionflower can inhibit the breakdown of serotonin.

_{Lemon Balm Extract}

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial plant that belongs to the mint family. It has been used since the Middle Ages to help in reducing stress and anxiety as well as promoting sleep. The leaves contain terpenes, which may play a role in its relaxing effects.

_{Rhodiola Rosea Extract}

Rhodiola is a perennial plant. The roots are used in most extracts. Rosavin and salidroside are two of the active components. Rhodiola is considered to be an adaptogen, which means that it can increase the body's resistance to stress, trauma and anxiety. Adaptogens are herbs that help keep a natural balance in the body. Rhodiola also helps reduce feelings of fatigue, which results in better-quality sleep.

_{Chamomile Extract}

Chamomile is a flowering plant in the daisy family. The flowers are used in most extracts. There are two plants known as chamomile: the more popular German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and Roman or English chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). Although they belong to different species, they are used to treat similar conditions. Some studies indicate that chrysin and apigenin, flavonoid components of chamomile, contribute to its ability to help alleviate anxiety and promote sleep. Chamomile also helps promote relaxation through its soothing aroma. It is often used for children.

_{Lavender Extract}

Lavender is a flowering shrub. The name lavender comes from the Latin root lavare, which means "to wash." The essential oils from the flowers are used in aromatherapy and cosmetics to produce a soothing and calming effect. Some studies show that aromatherapy with lavender may slow the activity of the nervous system, improve sleep quality, promote relaxation, and alleviate the occasional blue feeling everyone experiences from time to time.

_{Elderflower Extract}

Elderflower (Sambucus nigra) is also called Elder. The berries and flowers can be made into wine. Elderberry extracts are often used as natural colors for food and beverages. The flowers are used in teas to promote a calming effect. It is often used in holistic medicine to support a healthy immune system.

Health & Wellness