Improves quality of sleep: Maypop is known for its sleep-facilitating properties that have been confirmed in clinical trials. Volunteers receiving passion flower extract showed an improvement in sleep quality and an increase of total sleep time. The results of polysomnographic studies have shown that the average time of the REM sleep phase has increased after using the extract from this plant. During this phase of sleep the mind rests most effectively. Valerian is a popular herbal remedy known particularly for its ability to calm down the nerves. It has been proven that it helps to fall asleep relatively faster and to wake up feeling more refreshed. Unlike the passion flower, it extends the phase of so-called slow-wave sleep during which the body is getting the most rest and its regeneration is most intense. Therefore, the combination of these two plants allows one to fall asleep quickly and helps the body to regenerate more effectively.

Enhances stress resilience: GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter. It is often considered a kind of calming agent for the mind as it reduces redundant nerve impulses. Therefore, its proper activity makes it easy to deal with stress at both physical and emotional levels. Biologically active compounds contained in passion flower and valerian support the activity of this neurotransmitter. Chrysin present in the maypop acts on receptors for GABA and increases the effects of their stimulation. Active substances of valerian promote the release of the GABA molecules into synapses while reducing their reuptake and enzymatic degradation. Thanks to those mechanisms, this neurotransmitter can influence its specific receptors longer and more effectively. It has been proven during clinical trials that both of these plants help to maintain peace of mind in stressful situations. The measurable results of this effect included a reduced blood pressure and heart rate as well as a reduction in cortisol level, i.e. “stress hormone”.

Stabilization of mood: GABA, dopamine and serotonin are key neurotransmitters essential for a good mood. GABA calms both the mind and the body. Dopamine is secreted during stimulation of the “reward system” in the brain. Serotonin is often referred to as the “happiness hormone” because its balanced activity is essential for a sense of mental comfort. It has been proven that Passiflora incarnata inhibits the activity of the enzyme which decomposes the dopamine and serotonin molecules. Thanks to this, these neurotransmitters act longer in the synapse and affect their target neurons. Passiflora together with valerian stimulates the activity of GABA as active compounds of these two plants stimulate the release of GABA molecules into the synapse, reduce their breakdown processes and stimulate GABA receptors. This way, passiflora and valerian help to regulate emotional responses and their intensivity. All in all, they might induce a good mood and stabilize it so it does not change under the influence of minor stimuli.