Melatonin is a metabolic hormone made in the pineal gland, retina and intestines. Melatonin is released into the blood stream by the pineal gland (which resides in the brain) to set your bodys biological clock and initiate sleep. Darkness stimulates the pineal gland and causes it to produce more melatonin. Day light stops your bodys production of melatonin. Melatonin helps to promote healthy sleep patterns. Melatonin also protects cells from free radical damage and directs the release of growth and sex hormones.

Theanine is believed to be the primary component of green tea that provides a relaxing effect. Theanine is an amino acid derivative of glutamine. Oral doses of 50 and 200 mg of theanine given to healthy volunteers promoted alpha brain wave production. Alpha waves are associated with a calm mental state. Theanine helps to induce a state of calm relaxation.

Valerian is known for its calming effects and also used as a sleep aid. GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid) is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter (message sender) in the brain. GABA plays a role in regulating sleep wake cycles and is involved in initiation of sleep. Melatonin, theanine and Valerian extracts all interact with the GABA receptor.