De-Stress By Key Nutrients Overview & Drug Interactions

Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It plays a role in many important physiological processes, including the contraction and relaxation of muscles, the transmission of nerve impulses, and the regulation of blood pressure. Magnesium is found in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables, nuts, and grains, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. There are several different forms of magnesium that are available as supplements, all of which can be used to prevent deficiency. Additionally, magnesium is purported to have several different health benefits, such as improving sleep, reducing muscle cramps, reducing anxiety, and preventing or treating migraines. Although magnesium is essential for health, magnesium-containing foods and supplements can interact with some prescription medications if used at the same time.

Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is a herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is native to India, and is used to treat a variety of conditions, including stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Some studies have also suggested that ashwagandha may have potential health benefits for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. However, more research is needed. Ashwagandha is often referred to as an adaptogenic herb, which is theorized to help the body to adapt to stress.

Rhodiola is a type of plant native to the Arctic regions of Europe and Asia. It is also known as "golden root" or "arctic root." The roots and rhizomes of Rhodiola are commonly used in dietary supplements for their purported effects as an 'adaptogen', which are used to improve physical and mental performance, reduce fatigue, and enhance the ability to cope with stress. Rhodiola is believed to work by increasing the production of certain chemicals in the brain (e.g., serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine) that are involved in mood and energy regulation. Rhodiola supplements are often standardized to a specific amount of their rosavin and salidroside content.

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is a climbing vine with fragrant white and purple flowers that is native to the Americas. It is purported to have a number of potential health benefits, including reducing anxiety and improving sleep. It is thought to work by increasing the levels of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps regulate mood and anxiety. Passionflower may also have mild sedative and muscle-relaxing effects and may be helpful in the treatment of muscle spasms and other muscle disorders. Dietary supplements containing passionflower are generally standardized to contain no less than 1.5% of the flavanoid vitexin.

Theanine, often referred to as L-theanine as that is the predominant isomer of theanine, is an amino acid commonly found in tea leaves, particularly in green tea. It is purported to increase levels of GABA, serotonin, and dopamine in the brain, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. L-theanine may also promote a sense of calm and improve overall well-being. Some studies have also suggested that it may improve cognitive function, although more research is needed. Most reported drug interactions with theanine are due to its sedative effects.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that is involved in a variety of functions, including regulating brain activity and behavior, relaxation, and sleep. GABA is endogenously produced in the brain from the amino acid glutamate and is responsible for inhibiting the activity of nerve cells in the brain and central nervous system. GABA is a popular dietary supplement and is used to help reduce anxiety and improve sleep, but more research is needed to determine its safety and effectiveness.

5-HTP, or 5-hydroxytryptophan, is a naturally-occurring amino acid and a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. It is used as a dietary supplement to improve mood and help with anxiety, sleep disorders, and other conditions. It is also sometimes used in combination with other medications to treat migraines and fibromyalgia. The 5-HTP found in supplements is most often obtained from the seeds of the tropical shrub Griffonia simplicifolia