The Muscle Mag
‘Relissa’ was developed to support mental, emotional, and sleep health to meet the increasing consumer demand for non-melatonin sleep products.
The ingredient leverages the well-known properties of lemon balm, also known as Melissa officinalis, using Indena Phytosome technology to create a delivery system that enhances the potency of phytonutrients.
The expert panel of judges that chose the ingredient as a winner commented: “Overcoming the negative effects of stress and sleep is crucial for effective cognitive function. The selected ingredient is backed by the right data, providing consumers with confidence.”
Elisabetta Frattini, senior research scientist at Indena SpA, expressed her appreciation for the award, stating: “The award recognizes the excellent work and results achieved by the scientific team at Indena.”
Frattini also emphasized the importance of collaborative scientific work and the rigorous and high-quality approach to nature that can lead to tangible and successful outcomes.
Relissa
Melissa leaves are widely recognized as a traditional sleep aid, primarily due to hydroxycinnamic and rosmarinic acids and their derivatives.
Relissa was formulated to harness high levels of hydroxycinnamic and rosmarinic acid, standardized through Indena’s Phytosome technology.
This technology creates phospholipid molecules that facilitate better dispersion in gastrointestinal fluids and enhance the bioaccessibility profile of the ingredient. The goal is to improve the biological performance of the active ingredients in Melissa officinalis while preserving their natural profile.
Studies have shown that Relissa can have positive effects on mental and sleep health in adults with mild sleep issues related to depression, anxiety, and stress. A double-blind randomized clinical study demonstrated improvements in sleep and mental well-being in adults after three weeks of Relissa supplementation.
The ingredient has also been tested to confirm that it does not have negative interactions with the microbiome, as the connection between gut health and mood and sleep becomes more apparent.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus, naturally present in the gut, has been shown to improve night rest and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, and according to Frattini, Relissa has shown no negative interactions with Lactobacillus rhamnosus, thus preserving its beneficial effects.
Improving Sleep
Enhancing sleep quality is essential in addressing the challenges of living in a fast-paced society, according to Frattini, who stated: “Quality sleep leads to better daily functioning, and vice versa. By prioritizing sleep, emotional well-being can be significantly enhanced.”
Research indicates that sleep quality is the most critical factor in improving quality of life. A recent study with 4,253 participants showed that while sleep duration and timing are important factors, improved sleep quality has the strongest correlation with enhanced quality of life.
Frattini observed, “We are living in a society where brain health is a concern for individuals of all ages. It is crucial to have a natural and safe ingredient that can support sleep quality and emotional health.”
