24-05-2025
Neuropsychopharmacologist says one natural pill helps you sleep
As people struggle with the hot summer nights, a scientist who specialises in brain chemistry has explained how ingredients like ashwagandha and lemon balm can help with a more restful sleep. One in five people in the UK - 13.5million of us, are not getting enough sleep, according to Mental Health UK.
63% report their sleep is disrupted by hot weather, meaning sleep is worse in warm, weather Studies have shown that organic ingredients like ashwagandha, lemon balm, l-theanine and reishi mushrooms can help people sleep better.
Dr Rayyan Zafar, a Scientist at Imperial College London and the Chief Scientific Officer of Moodeys, said: . 'The key to good sleep is REM sleep. It's like hitting the reset button for your brain—it keeps you sharp, balanced, and ready to take on the day. But stress and restlessness can get in the way so it helps to find ingredients that can combat it. That's where natural sleep boosters like ashwagandha, lemon balm, reishi mushroom and l-theanine can help.
READ MORE: One thing treats depression 'better than drugs or talking therapy'
READ MORE: Eating this 20p fruit could help prevent wrinkles and ease arthritis pain
'Ashwagandha can help to lower cortisol (the 'stress hormone') so your body can relax. Lemon Balm can be useful in reducing anxiety and quieting a racing mind. Reishi Mushroom is a fungus that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to reduce inflammation and relax our central and peripheral nervous system. And L-Theanine? It has been found to induce relaxation and rest. These are all organic compounds found in nature that will help you drift into sleep smoothly and help you to stay there.
'These powerful ingredients work best in capsules as they are fast absorbing and have high bioavailability. The result? A calmer nervous system, less stress, and deep REM sleep that leaves you feeling amazing in the morning.'
Ashwagandha, lemon balm, reishi mushroom and L-Theanine are all sold separately and are available in pharmacies and supermarkets, however, combining the ingredients in supplements could be the ultimate sleepmaxxing hack. The supplements are available in a combined pill.
