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How do plant extracts promote healthy sleep?
Author : Naturalin Date : Click : times
In today's fast-paced and high-pressure life, sleep disorders such as insomnia, light sleep, and difficulty falling asleep have become common problems that plague many people. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 27% of the global population suffers from sleep disorders.In China, the prevalence of insomnia among adults is also as high as 38.2%. According to the "China Sleep Research Report 2024" published by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, the sleep index for Chinese residents in 2023 was 62.61 points, a decrease of 5.16 points compared to the previous year.
The Sleep-Regulating Mechanism of Plant Extracts
Regulating neurotransmitters
Neurotransmitters such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and serotonin play key roles in sleep. Many plant extracts can increase the level of inhibitory neurotransmitters (such as GABA) or adjust the balance of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters, thereby calming the central nervous system and reducing brain activity to facilitate falling asleep.
Relieving anxiety and stress
Psychological factors such as anxiety and stress are important causes of insomnia. Plant extracts with soothing effects can reduce the body's stress response, lower the level of stress hormones (such as cortisol), and help people relax mentally and emotionally, creating a favorable condition for sleep.
Regulating circadian rhythm
The circadian rhythm is the internal biological clock of the human body that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Some plant extracts can adjust the body's circadian rhythm, aligning it with the natural day-night cycle and improving sleep quality and regularity.
Recommended Plant Extracts for Healthy Sleep
Zizyphus seed has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for nourishing the heart and calming the mind. Modern scientific research has confirmed that zizyphus seed extract can significantly improve sleep quality by regulating the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic system in the central nervous system. GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the human central nervous system, which can inhibit the overexcitement of nerve cells and promote the body to enter a relaxed state, thereby laying the foundation for falling asleep.
Spinosin can regulate the secretion of melatonin, the key hormone that regulates circadian rhythm, improving sleep duration and reducing nighttime awakenings. In addition, zizyphus seed extract also has the effect of relieving mental anxiety and soothing the mood, which is particularly suitable for people with insomnia caused by overthinking and mental stress.
2.Valeriana Officinalis Extract
Valerian root is obtained from the roots and rhizomes of Valeriana officinalis L., a plant in the Caprifoliaceae family, and is widely recognized as a natural sleep aid in both traditional and modern medicine.
Valerenic acid can inhibit the breakdown of GABA in the brain, increasing the concentration of GABA in synaptic clefts and enhancing its inhibitory effect on neural activity, thereby producing a calming and hypnotic effect. Valepotriates also have sedative and anxiety-relieving properties, which can help relieve restlessness and irritability and improve sleep depth. Unlike some chemical hypnotics, valerian root extract does not easily cause morning drowsiness or dependence, making it suitable for long-term use to regulate sleep. In addition, valeriana officinalis extract can reduce the secretion of cortisol to lower stress response.
3.Chamomile Extract
Chamomile extract is derived from the flowers of Matricaria chamomilla L. or Chamaemelum nobile (L.) All., plants in the Asteraceae family, and is famous for its soothing and calming effects.
Chamomile extract contains a sedative flavonoid called apigenin. Apigenin is a natural flavonoid that can bind to GABA receptors in the brain, exerting a sedative effect and reducing the excitability of the central nervous system. Chamomile extract have anti-inflammatory and anxiety-relieving properties, which can relieve physical and mental tension, soothe the mood, and create a relaxed state conducive to sleep. In addition, the aroma of chamomile extract is transmitted to the brain through the olfactory system, producing a sedative effect and improving sleep quality. Chamomile extract is particularly suitable for people with mild insomnia, difficulty falling asleep due to stress, or poor sleep quality caused by emotional restlessness.
How to Incorporate Sleep-Promoting Plant Extracts into Health Products
First, select the appropriate extract based on the product’s target audience and sleep issue. For example, Zizyphus seed extract is ideal for products targeting sleep latency (difficulty falling asleep) and nervous system relaxation; Valerian Extract is suitable for individuals with anxiety-related insomnia or nighttime awakenings; and Chamomile Extract is gentle enough for daily use, making it suitable for products aimed at mild sleep disturbances or stress relief.
Second, optimize the concentration of active compounds. For most sleep supplements, a concentration of 2%-8% of key active ingredients (e.g., jujubosides, valerenic acid, apigenin) is recommended. Too low a concentration may not deliver noticeable sleep benefits, while excessively high concentrations may increase the risk of drowsiness the next day without additional efficacy.
Finally, ensure compatibility with other ingredients. Sleep-promoting plant extracts are generally compatible with common sleep-supporting ingredients such as Melatonin, Magnesium, and Passionflower Extract. However, compatibility testing should be conducted during formulation to ensure product stability and avoid potential interactions.
Conclusion
Contact Naturalin
Naturalin Bio-Resources Co., Ltd. are dedicated to delivering premium, pure plant extracts tailored for sleep health products, standing as a trusted partner in the natural health industry. As a bulk supplier of sleep-supporting plant extracts to global markets each year, Naturalin takes pride in offering high-quality products. We source our raw materials—including Zizyphus seeds, Valeriana officinalis roots, and Chamomile flowers—from select plantations across optimal ecological regions.
1.Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2020, Research on the sleep-promoting effect of jujube seed extract.
2.Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2019, Meta-analysis of valerian root extract for insomnia.
3.Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 2021, Study on the effect of chamomile extract on sleep quality.
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