Tossing and turning, staring at the ceiling, and counting endless sheep? We’ve all been there, and the consequences of poor sleep can wreak havoc on your well-being and nervous system, as well as the body’s ability repair. Optimum health and vitality is difficult to achieve with insufficient restorative sleep.

Want to know our secret for a dreamy, sweet slumber? Introducing our Sleep Tonic elixir!

Like our other health elixirs, our sleep tonic is based on theoretical foundations, our own experience and our philosophy of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts.  We know that the amount of melatonin contained in these foods does not go close to a melatonin supplement.  It is the synergy of the combination, as well as other beneficial impacts of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity that we believe assists.   It is important to remember that chronic insomnia or disturbed sleep patterns may take some time to correct and should be combined with other sleep preparation and enhancing behaviours such as avoiding being on devices, thus reducing exposure to blue light, and of course caffeinated drinks, including green tea in the afternoon.  (Link to sleep article?).   There is also something about the agency one can achieve when participating in their own health journey in a holistic way.  

Studies have suggested that melatonin containing foods may have many health benefits including immune system support and neuro-protective activity.   So there are many reasons to include these functional foods even if you are lucky enough to enjoy good quality sleep. 

The Magic Behind the Mix

Sour cherries (Montmorency)

In addition to melatonin inherent in sour cherries, a study hypothesised that improved sleep may be due, in part, to increased tryptophan (precursor to serotonin and melatonin) availability as well as reduction in inflammation due to high polyphenol content, including flavonoids and anthocyanin. 

Other reported benefits of Montmorency cherries, according to some studies, include improved memory and muscle recovery after oxidative damage induced by exercise.

Pistachios

Pistachios are also widely reported to be a good dietary source of exogenous melatonin.  Whilst studies are inconsistent in terms of actual amounts of melatonin, this is completely normal.  Any constituent of a natural food will vary accordingly to a number of factors, including growing conditions, storage etc. 

Additional nutrients within the pistachio nut include magnesium, which is also helpful and often prescribed for sleep improvement, and Vitamin B6.  Amongst the many functions of Vitamin B6 is the promotion of melatonin biosynthesis, thus further augmenting sleep enhancing melatonin. 

Dates

The addition of dates adds natural sweetness which makes this tonic delicious, whilst also providing sleep enhancing nutrients such as magnesium, vitamin B6 and a range of antioxidant compounds.

White Chestnut Bach Flower remedy

One of the greatest impediments to good sleep is a busy mind.  It can be challenging to turn off repetitive thoughts and worries, particularly at night time.  White Chestnut is specifically indicated to assist with this and therefore promote tranquility to induce sleep.   

This formula is a delicious way to re-establish healthy circadian rhythm, promoting better sleep over time.   We recommend taking this every night for at least two weeks. 

Looking for more health tonics? Check out our Inflammation Buster elixir.