Stress Defense By Jarrow Formulas Overview & Drug Interactions

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.

Baikal skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) is a perennial herb native to eastern Asia. It is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is named for its small, helmet-shaped flowers, which resemble medieval helmets. Baikal skullcap has a long history of use in traditional medicine for a variety of health conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, inflammation, and allergies. Baikal skullcap is also sometimes used to support immune system function and to help protect against certain types of infections. Most Baikal skullcap dietary supplements are standardized for their baicalein and/or baicalin content.

Hops are the female flowers (also known as cones) of the hop plant, Humulus lupulus, and a member of the Cannabaceae family. Hops are native to Europe and are widely cultivated in many parts of the world. Hops have a variety of applications, such as for food flavoring and brewing beer. Hops extract has been used in topical medicinal preparations and as a dietary supplement.

California poppy is a plant, part of the Papaveraceae family, and native to North America. It is known for its bright orange flower and used in traditional medicine to help treat symptoms of anxiety and depression. It is also used as a food or garnish. It is the official state flower of California.

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.