GABA VENETRON Sleep & Relax

GABA VENETRON is a dietary supplement designed to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. It contains GABA, derived from fermented barley, which acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, and VENETRON™, an extract from the Apocynum venetum leaf, known for its calming and stress-relieving properties. Together, these ingredients help manage nervous tension, support a calm mood, and enhance sleep, making it easier to fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper, more restorative sleep.

Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) is a vital amino acid that plays a pivotal role in our central nervous system. It acts primarily as the main inhibitory neurotransmitter, which means it suppresses excessive neuronal activity. This suppression is particularly important as it contrasts the excitatory functions of other neurotransmitters like glutamate. Furthermore, GABA is not just a product of our bodies; it's also found in certain plants, offering a natural source for those interested in its benefits.

 

 

 

Fermented Barley:

The GABA in this supplement comes from the lactic fermentation of "fermented barley extract," created during the brewing of Mugi Shochu "iichiko." This extract, termed "発酵大麦エキス," stems from the "大麦発酵液" made in the "iichiko" brewing process. Rich in amino acids and peptides, it's a result of barley proteins decomposed by Koji mold enzymes.

 

The extract also includes barley-derived oligosaccharides, self-digesting yeast extract (with nucleic acids and amino acids), citric acid from the Shochu Koji mold, and polyphenols, emphasizing its nutritional richness.

 

 

Neurotransmission and GABA:

The nervous system is a complex web of neurons transmitting continuous messages. While some of these messages rev up the system, GABA acts as the 'calming force', ensuring balance. By inhibiting certain signals, it maintains an equilibrium between excitatory and inhibitory activities in our brain. This balance is essential for various brain functions like attention, emotion, and motor control.

 

 

Roles & Functions:

The primary role of GABA is to block excessive information flows, ensuring a balance between excitatory and inhibitory processes in our brain. This helps in providing functions such as attention, motor, and emotional control.

Other major functions include:

 

• Regulating motor activity

 

• Supporting memory and cognition

 

• Exhibiting anticonvulsant properties

 

• Supplying the brain with blood

 

• Activating energy processes

 

• Increasing respiratory activity

 

• Accelerating the utilization of glucose

 

• Excreting toxic metabolites.

 

In essence, GABA's inhibitory effects serve as a counteraction to the excitatory (activating) effects of glutamate. When the brain is overstimulated, it can lead to feelings of restlessness, irritability, and even insomnia. GABA helps address these imbalances associated with anxious states, offering a relaxing and sedative effect. It also promotes better sleep quality, aiding in faster sleep onset.

 

Moreover, GABA has been shown to:

• Promote calmness and relaxation
• Manage "panic" states associated with anxiety
• Reduce muscle tone and spasms
• Decrease heart rate and normalize blood pressure
• Enhance overall immunity
• Accelerate the recovery process after injuries.

 

 

Blood Pressure Regulation Using GABA:

When an individual faces intense stress situations, the body responds by activating the sympathetic nervous system. This leads to a heightened release of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which in turn constricts blood vessels, resulting in increased blood pressure.

 

GABA, or gamma-aminobutyric acid, has the capability to regulate and reduce the secretion of norepinephrine. This action exerts a calming and relaxing effect on the sympathetic nervous system, aiding the body in returning to a relaxed state. It's important to note, however, that GABA effectively assists in managing elevated blood pressure but does not have an additional hypotensive effect on normal or low pressure.

 

Additionally, the kidneys play a role in blood pressure regulation. When blood flow to the kidneys is compromised, they begin to produce the enzyme "renin". This enzyme promotes the constriction of blood vessels, leading to increased pressure. Notably, the release of renin is stimulated by the action of norepinephrine. Thus, by reducing the level of norepinephrine due to GABA's effects, there is also a decrease in the level of renin, positively influencing the stabilization of blood pressure.

 

 

Effects of Fermented Barley:

In a study referenced by PMID: 20057128 and DOI: 10.1271/bbb.90653, scientists studied the impact of fermented barley extract P (FBEP), sourced from barley-shochu by-products, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on atopic dermatitis-like skin issues in NC/Nga mice.

 

Given separately, both FBEP and GABA reduced the appearance of these skin problems in a dose-related manner. GABA achieved this by reducing certain serum markers (immunoglobulin E or IgE) and a specific protein (interleukin-4 or IL-4) involved in immune responses. On the other hand, FBEP reduced skin issues without altering these markers.

 

Interestingly, when FBEP and GABA were used together in mice already having skin issues, there were decreased levels of IgE and IL-4, and an increase in another protein, interferon-gamma.

 

To sum it up, the combined use of FBEP and GABA might help reduce atopic dermatitis symptoms in mice by balancing specific immune responses.

 

 

Breast Cancer Prevention:

In a recent study published in "Acta Histochemica et Cytochemica", researchers explored the potential use of fermented barley extract (FBE) in preventing the invasion of cancer cells during the early stages of breast cancer.

 

Scientists utilized a mouse model of early breast cancer and found that adding FBE to the diet prevented the thinning of the external elastic fibrous layer of the milk duct, which is typically lost as cancer develops. This extract also effectively halted the penetration (or invasion) of breast cancer cells.

 

The study's findings suggest that fermented barley extract may serve as a significant dietary tool in the prevention of early-stage breast cancer.

 

 

Relaxation and Brain Activity:

In research referenced by PMID: 16971751 and DOI: 10.1002/biof.5520260305, the influence of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on human brain activity was evaluated.

 

A total of 13 study participants were administered either GABA or water. Subsequent to this, researchers analyzed changes in their electroencephalograms (EEG), a method used to study brain activity.

 

Results indicated that GABA consumption led to an increase in what are known as "alpha waves" in the brain, often associated with a relaxed state of consciousness. Concurrently, there was a decrease in "beta waves", typically linked to alertness and stress.

 

Conclusively, the study affirmed that GABA can effectively promote relaxation and mitigate feelings of anxiety in individuals.

 

Improving Sleep with Naturally Fermented GABA and Apocynum venetum Leaf Extract by Atsushi Yamatsu et al.

 

Researchers investigated the sleep-enhancing properties of two natural ingredients: γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), produced through natural fermentation, and an extract from the Apocynum venetum leaf. Brain activity measurements (EEGs) revealed that GABA intake shortened the time it took for individuals to fall asleep by 5.3 minutes.

 

The Apocynum venetum leaf extract increased the duration of deep, restorative sleep (referred to as non-REM sleep) by 7.6%.

Combining both GABA and the leaf extract led to participants falling asleep 4.3 minutes faster and experiencing a 5.1% increase in non-REM sleep duration.

Participants also reported noticeable sleep improvements. In essence, while GABA aids in falling asleep faster, the leaf extract promotes deeper sleep. Given that both ingredients originate from natural food sources and have been consumed for years, they are considered safe for regular consumption to enhance sleep quality.

 

 

Effect on Skin Condition:

In a study conducted by Hideki Hokazono and Eriko Uehara from Sanwa Shurui Co., Ltd., the impact of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on human skin condition was examined. Over a period of 8 weeks, 36 women with dry skin issues, fatigue, and sleep disturbances were either administered 100 mg/day of GABA or a placebo.

 

The results revealed that women who took GABA experienced a significant improvement in cheek skin elasticity compared to those on the placebo. However, changes in sleep quality were nearly identical for both groups.

 

In conclusion, the study confirms that oral consumption of GABA can enhance skin elasticity, though it doesn't significantly influence sleep quality.

 

 

 

VENETRON™

Apocynum venetum, or the Rafuma leaf, is a shrub native to northwestern China. Historically anchored in traditional Chinese medicine, its therapeutic attributes have been utilized to address ailments like neurasthenia, heart palpitations, insomnia, and hypertension.

 

Research from the 1960s and 70s identified Apocynum venetum as an agent assisting in stress mitigation and exhibiting antioxidant properties. It is now recognized in the Chinese pharmacopeia as a certified medical entity.

 

VENETRON™, inspired by Apocynum venetum, is a sophisticated calming agent derived from Rafuma leaf extract. This product represents a blend of traditional herbal practices and contemporary scientific methodologies.

 

The efficacy of VENETRON™ is attributed to its potent components, specifically its content of over 4% flavon glycosides. It has also earned recognition in the United States as a dietary supplement.

 

 

Functional Benefits:

 

• Mood Regulation: VENETRON™ enhances mood stability by increasing serotonin levels, which further facilitates the production of melatonin, governing sleep cycles.

 

• Stress Management: VENETRON™ suppresses the release of chromogranin A and interacts with GABA, a primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, providing a balanced neural environment.

 

• Sleep Augmentation: VENETRON™ fortifies sleep quality by fostering melatonin production through the preservation of serotonin levels.

 

The Apocynum venetum has a great potential as a natural antidepressant. In a 2003 study published in the journal "Pharmacol Biochem Behav", titled "Long-term effects of an Apocynum venetum extract on brain monoamine levels and beta-AR density in rats", the antidepressant potential of an extract from the leaves of Apocynum venetum (AV) was highlighted:

 

• When tested on rats, the AV-extract showcased effects similar to imipramine, a common antidepressant.
• Specifically, after 8 weeks of treatment, the AV-extract reduced certain brain chemicals, hinting at its potential mood-regulating properties.
• Unlike imipramine, AV-extract did not affect serotonin levels, suggesting a different mechanism of action.
• Researchers believe AV's benefits may stem from its interaction with specific brain receptors.
• In essence, Apocynum venetum stands out as a natural alternative with potential antidepressant effects, deserving further exploration.

 

 

Sleep improvement and Psychological Stress reduction:

In a 2022 study conducted by Kohei Fujiki et al., and published in the journal Jpn Pharmacol Ther, the effects of VENETRON® on sleep quality and psychological stress were examined. The research, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study, involved 17 adult participants who had subjective dissatisfaction with their sleep quality. Key conclusions from this study are:

 

VENETRON® intake led to a significant improvement in both the initiation and maintenance of sleep for the participants.

 

A noticeable reduction in psychological stress was observed. Specifically, after consuming VENETRON®, participants exhibited decreased performance fluctuation, increased resting effects, and diminished feelings of mental stress.

 

In summary, the findings suggest that VENETRON® is not only beneficial for improving sleep quality but also effective in mitigating psychological stress among individuals dissatisfied with their sleep.

 

Antidepressant Potential:

A research study led by Xiangting Li et al., published in 2018, investigated the antidepressant properties of the Apocynum venetum leaf extract (AVLE) in rats subjected to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS), a condition analogous to human depression. Utilizing behavioral tests and biochemical analyses, the research team examined the rats' responses to AVLE treatment.

 

Their results indicated that the rats treated with AVLE exhibited behaviors akin to those administered with fluoxetine, a well-established antidepressant. Specifically, AVLE diminished the levels of stress hormones in these rats. Additionally, it seemed to protect the brain from adverse stress effects, bolstering the health of certain brain cells.

 

In conclusion, the findings suggest that Apocynum venetum leaf extract might possess antidepressant potential by alleviating stress responses and enhancing brain health in rats under stress.

 

 

 

Japanese and Chinese Plant Extracts:

 

In both Japanese and Chinese medical traditions, herbal treatments are commonly combined rather than administered singularly. By doing so, practitioners leverage not only the unique advantages of each herb but also the amplified benefits derived from their interactions.

Traditional Chinese Medicine, also recognized as Kanpō Medicine in Japan, springs from ancient Chinese methodologies. Central to its philosophy is the pursuit of bodily harmony. Its treatments focus on reinstating equilibrium, fortifying the body's innate capacity for recovery. Within TCM, diverse natural compounds are blended, with each component offering its specific therapeutic virtue.

 

For everyone feeling restless, grappling with anxiety or depression, or those seeking avenues for restful sleep: our blend of Japanese and Chinese botanicals might be the answer.

 

Gardenia Fruit Extract:

Extracted from the fruits of the Rubiaceae family plant, this shrub is prevalent in Japan, China, and Taiwan. The pigments extracted from it are used in food. Moreover, research indicates that crocin, one of gardenia's pigments, can aid memory impairments, eye fatigue, sleepiness, and poor circulation.

 

 

Fermented Soy:

Soy-based fermented products are rich in probiotics that aid gut health. This can potentially reduce stress responses via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Additionally, improving gut flora may boost neurotransmitter levels such as serotonin and GABA.

 

 

 

Passion Flower Extract Powder:

The Passionflower, known scientifically as Passiflora incarnata, is a renowned herb, celebrated not only for its visual appeal but also for its calming and therapeutic properties.

 

One of the most distinctive attributes of the passionflower is its cooling effect on the body, combined with its ability to calm the mind and soothe the spirit. It acts as a balm to quell agitation and interrupt repetitive or ruminating thoughts, facilitating natural relaxation and aiding in stress management. The herb's gentle nature renders it suitable for a wide demographic, from children to the elderly, particularly those seeking solace from an overactive or restless mind.

 

An interesting cultural tidbit links the passionflower to Japan, where it is fondly referred to as the "herb-clock". This name springs from the perception of its petals, and more specifically, its stamens and pistils, as resembling the hands of a clock.

 

Diving deeper into its therapeutic history, the Passiflora stands as a testament to ancient medicinal practices. Indigenous populations of South America revered this herb, harnessing its potent calming properties, often referring to it as a "natural tranquilizer". It has been particularly effective in alleviating symptoms of insomnia, especially those stemming from nervous tension and anxiety.

 

 

One of the benefits of Passionflower extract is improvement of Circadian rhythm, or the body's internal clock, operates on an approximately 24-hour cycle. It regulates numerous physiological activities like sleep, digestion, metabolism, hormone secretion, and body temperature.

Disruption of this rhythm can lead to various health issues, including obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and mental disorders.

The rhythm is influenced not just by external factors like light, temperature, and stress but also by internal factors like aging. For instance, the circadian rhythm of older individuals tends to have a reduced amplitude, leading to a disrupted sleep-wake cycle.

 

Effects of Passionflower Extract on Fibroblast Cells:

Studies on mouse fibroblast cells showed that when they were treated with Passionflower Extract, there was an increase in the expression of certain clock genes, specifically Per2 and Cry1. These genes play an important role in regulating the circadian rhythm.

Three compounds found in Passionflower Extract were identified to enhance the expression of the Per2 gene.

 

Effects of Passionflower Extract on Sleep Quality and Daytime Functioning:

A double-blind crossover test was conducted with 16 volunteers. Participants consumed 200 mg/day of Passionflower Extract or a placebo for two weeks.

The Athens Insomnia Scale was used for evaluation, a globally recognized metric for diagnosing insomnia. The higher the score, the more severe the insomnia.

Results indicated that after consuming PassionFlower Extract, there was a trend towards improvement in mood, activity, and sleepiness during the day.

 

Antioxidant Effects:

Studies on mouse fibroblast cells also showed that Passionflower Extract increased the expression of antioxidant-related enzymes (GPx1, SOD1), indicating its potential antioxidant properties.

 

 

 

Daylily Powder:

Daylily Powder, popularly known in Japanese as Kwansou (アキノワスレグサ), is a traditional vegetable revered in the Okinawan region. Known by several names such as "Aki no-Wasuregusa", "Tokiwa Kanzou", and "niibui gusas" (which translates to "sleepy vegetable" in Okinawan dialect), this botanical wonder holds a distinct place in Japanese folklore and traditional medicine.

 

Belonging to the Asphodelaceae family, Kwansou is primarily distributed in the Nansei Islands, including Okinawa. This perennial plant finds its roots in China and can be spotted in the warm regions of Kinki and beyond in Japan.

 

 

Culinary and Medicinal Importance:

Historically, during the Ryukyu Dynasty era, Kwansou graced the dishes of the Ryukyuan palace cuisine, suggesting its culinary importance. Beyond just its taste, it has been an integral part of Okinawan traditional medicine for its supposed sleep-inducing properties. Such attributes are not just based on age-old beliefs but have been supported by modern research.

 

 

Active Ingredients:

The root of the Kwanso plant contains amino acids like aspartic acid, lysine, and triterpenes. Its flowers are rich in hydroxyglutaric acid and β-sitosterol. However, the most noteworthy component is Oxypinatanin. Recent studies have identified this component as a potent sleep-inducing agent, offering a natural solution for insomnia and sleep disturbances.

 

 

Research and Findings:

A study conducted in 1998 by E Uezu, titled "Effects of Hemerocallis on sleep in mice", found that mice fed with freeze-dried flowers of Kwansou exhibited increased slow-wave sleep and paradoxical sleep during the dark periods. This finding was significant when compared to the control group.

 

 

Benefits:

 

• Sleep Induction: Oxypinatanin in Kwanso has been shown to help with sleep onset, reduce mid-night awakenings, and improve sleep quality.
• Physical Wellness: A good sleep cycle induced by Kwansou can alleviate physical fatigue, ensuring efficient cellular metabolism.
• Skin Health: By promoting sound sleep, Kwansou might help in enhancing skin health, leading to improved skin texture and reduced breakouts.
• Stress Reduction: By aiding in the regulation of the autonomic nervous system, Kwansou might help in reducing stress and improving overall well-being.

 

• Fermented Barley GABA

  100mg

• Rafuma extract VENETRON®

  50mg

• Passion Flower Extract Powder

  132mg

• Day Lillie Powder

  100mg

• Japanese and Chinese Plant Extracts

  24mg

• Vitamin B6

  3.60mg

• Vitamin B12

  7.2μg

 

Other Ingredients: crystalline cellulose, gelatin, silicon dioxide, calcium stearate, caramel pigment (some include soybean/gelatin)

 

SUGGESTED USE: Adult, as a dietary supplement take three (3) capsules daily with water