In the busy world we live in, finding moments of calm can be tough. Stress and anxiety can take over, leaving us in search of relief. Ü Relax, a product from Calming Co., promises to help with this – it claims to provide deep relaxation, calm your nerves, and lift your mood. But does it truly do all that, or is it just a clever marketing trick? In this thorough review, we’ll take a close look at the product to see if it lives up to its promises.
What is U Relax drink from U Calming Co?
U Relax is a calming drink made by Calming Co. It’s designed to reduce stress and anxiety and is often promoted as an alternative to alcohol, offering relaxation, calmness, and a better mood. This plant-based drink is said to go through rigorous testing to ensure its quality. It comes in a handy powdered form that you can mix with water. U Relax is available in two tasty flavors, making it an easy choice for anyone looking for relaxation.
U Relax Benefits & Claims
- Effective Stress Relief: U Relax claims to be a potent stress-relief solution, blending natural ingredients known for relaxation.
- Enhanced Clarity and Calm: It asserts to provide mental clarity and a sense of calm without inducing drowsiness.
- Quiets Racing Thoughts: Suited for those battling racing thoughts, U Relax aims to calm the mind and restore control.
- Natural Mood Boost: Harnessing Kava’s natural properties, it suggests a mood lift for a refreshed feeling.
- Taste: Available in Pineapple and Mixed Berry flavors, sweetened with Stevia without artificial additives.
- Long-Lasting Calm: Claims quick onset (15-20 mins) and up to four hours of uninterrupted calm, ideal for a busy day.
- Supports Better Sleep: By easing stress, U Relax suggests aiding a more restful night’s sleep.
U Relax Ingredients Breakdown
Kava, derived from the tropical evergreen shrub Piper methysticum, is recognized for its efficacy in treating short-term anxiety (1). This natural dietary supplement contains seven kavalactones that impact serotonin receptors in the amygdala region of the brain, inducing feelings of euphoria, well-being, and calm. Clinical studies have shown that Kava uniquely promotes relaxation and enhances calm focus during stressful experiences. (2 )
Kava’s Key Ingredient: Kava’s active ingredients, kavalactones, constitute 3-20% of the dry weight of the plant’s root ( 3).
Range of Effects: Kavalactones have been associated with a variety of effects, including anxiety reduction, neuroprotection, pain relief, and a potential reduction in the risk of cancer —although the latter is primarily based on animal studies.(4), (5), (6), (7)
Anxiety Treatment: A review of 11 studies concluded that Kava extract is effective in treating anxiety, and it has even been suggested as an alternative to certain anxiety drugs and antidepressants (8) (9) (10).
Sleep Aid: Due to its calming effects, Kava is commonly used as an alternative to sleep medications. In one study involving 24 participants, Kava was found to reduce stress and insomnia compared to a placebo (11).
Neurotransmitter Impact: The precise mechanisms of kavalactones are not fully understood, but it is believed they work by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain, notably gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which reduces nerve activity (12) (13).
Current research indicates that kava may be a valuable option for addressing anxiety. It shows promise as a treatment with effectiveness comparable to specific anxiety medications, and it doesn’t seem to lead to dependency. Kava also presents a natural alternative to prescription sleep aids, demonstrating its efficacy in managing stress-induced insomnia. However, its impact on individuals without underlying health concerns remains an area that requires further exploration.
L-Theanine, a naturally occurring amino acid found in green tea, is recognized for its dual ability to promote relaxation and enhance focus. It serves as a precursor to gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a primary inhibitory neurotransmitter that aids in calming the mind and sharpening focus. L-Theanine is efficiently absorbed in the gut and has garnered attention through recent clinical studies as a promoter of calm and relaxation.
1. Anxiety and Stress Relief: L-Theanine, a naturally occurring amino acid found in green tea, is celebrated for its potential to reduce anxiety and stress without inducing drowsiness. Multiple studies support its calming effects, with one study specifically indicating a reduction in anxiety (14).
2. Focus Enhancement: Paired with caffeine, L-Theanine can boost focus and attention. A study combining L-Theanine (97 mg) with caffeine (40 mg) showcased improved focus during challenging tasks. This is particularly significant, as a typical cup of coffee contains approximately 95 mg of caffeine. Participants also reported increased alertness and reduced fatigue. (15) (16)
3. Reduced Stress Responses: Research using a nutrient beverage containing 200 mg of L-Theanine revealed reduced subjective stress responses one hour post-dose and significantly decreased cortisol responses three hours post-dose. This highlights its potential to mitigate stress without compromising cognitive performance (17).
4. Blood Pressure Regulation: Notably, L-Theanine has demonstrated the ability to reduce anxiety and attenuate blood pressure increases, particularly in individuals with high-stress responses (18).
In summary, L-Theanine’s versatile benefits encompass anxiety reduction, heightened focus, stress response management, and blood pressure regulation. These effects underscore its potential as a natural solution for both relaxation and cognitive enhancement.
Ashwagandha, a well-regarded dietary supplement, has earned its place in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its stress-relieving qualities. Here, we delve into its potential benefits:
Stress and Anxiety Relief: Ashwagandha has shown promise in stress and anxiety management. Studies suggest it can regulate stress-related factors like heat shock proteins (Hsp70), cortisol, and stress-activated c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase (JNK-1) (source: 19).
In an eight-week study involving 58 participants, those who took 250 or 600 mg of ashwagandha extract reported significant reductions in perceived stress and cortisol levels compared to a placebo group (20). Notably, the ashwagandha consumers also enjoyed improved sleep quality.
Mental Well-Being: Ashwagandha may play a vital role in supporting mental health. In a study encompassing individuals with moderate to severe anxiety, those receiving ashwagandha as part of naturopathic care experienced marked reductions in anxiety, enhanced mental health, and an overall boost in their quality of life (21).
Managing Mental Health Conditions: Ashwagandha’s potential extends to individuals with schizophrenia dealing with depression and anxiety, showing encouraging outcomes (source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31046033/). A 2021 review also suggests its effectiveness in addressing conditions like depression, anxiety, insomnia, and neurological issues (22).
Stress Relief and Weight Management: Research indicates that Ashwagandha can reduce both psychological and physiological stress markers, improve mental well-being, lower cortisol levels, curb food cravings, and enhance eating behaviors. Furthermore, it exhibits promise in aiding body-weight management for those grappling with chronic stress (23) (24).
Chamomile, often underestimated, holds a wealth of potential for promoting relaxation and overall well-being. Let’s uncover its diverse benefits:
Enhanced Sleep Quality: Chamomile contains apigenin, an antioxidant known to bind to specific receptors in the brain, which may induce drowsiness and combat insomnia. A study suggests that it can reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and decrease nighttime awakenings, leading to better sleep quality (25).
Digestive Health: Chamomile’s anti-inflammatory properties make it a promising candidate for digestive health. Research conducted in mice has shown its potential to protect against diarrhea (26). Additionally, in a study involving rats, chamomile was found to be effective in preventing stomach ulcers by reducing stomach acidity and inhibiting the growth of ulcer-related bacteria (27).
Anxiety and Depression Relief: Although primarily studied in aromatherapy or supplement form, there is some evidence that chamomile can mitigate the severity of anxiety and depression. It serves as an additional tool in the arsenal against these common mental health challenges (28, 29, and 30).
Magnesium L-Threonate, discovered by MIT scientists in 2010, possesses unique attributes that set it apart from other forms of magnesium. Here’s a glimpse of its remarkable qualities:
Blood-Brain Barrier Crossing: Unlike other magnesium forms, Magnesium L-Threonate has the exceptional ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. This property allows it to increase magnesium levels within the brain, making it a potential asset for cognitive health.
Derived from Threonic Acid: It’s derived from threonic acid, a water-soluble compound resulting from the metabolic breakdown of vitamin C (source: 31). This form is known for its easy absorption.
Brain-Boosting: Animal research suggests that it may be the most effective magnesium type for boosting magnesium concentrations in brain cells (32).
Promoting Better Sleep: There is growing interest in the potential connection between magnesium intake and sleep quality. While more research is needed, it’s notable that Mg intake has been associated with sleep outcomes ( 33).
Neuroprotective Effects: Magnesium L-Threonate shows promise in protecting against oxidative stress and neuronal damage in the brain, which can be associated with neurodegenerative disorders (34).
Mental Health Benefits: Research suggests that magnesium, including Magnesium L-Threonate, may be effective in the treatment of depression and related mental health conditions. These conditions include traumatic brain injury, anxiety, insomnia, and more (35).
Sleep and Magnesium: Observational studies hint at a link between magnesium status and sleep quality, including falling asleep during the day, sleepiness, snoring, and sleep duration. However, randomized clinical trials present varying results, necessitating further investigation (36).
Potential for Brain Disorders: Magnesium L-Threonate is being explored for its potential in managing brain disorders like depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and age-related memory loss. Although promising, ongoing research is required to fully understand its efficacy (37).
Passionflower, also known as purple passionflower or maypop, has garnered attention as a natural remedy for sleep-related concerns. Scientific studies have provided insights into its potential benefits:
Falling Asleep and Staying Asleep: Clinical research suggests that Passionflower can reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and promote a deeper, more restful sleep. It is believed to work by increasing the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter that helps lower the activity of certain brain cells, leading to a greater sense of relaxation (38).
Calming the Mind: Early studies indicate that Passionflower may have a calming effect, which can help alleviate insomnia and anxiety. By elevating GABA levels in the brain, it can reduce excessive brain activity, contributing to improved relaxation and sleep quality (39).
Improved Sleep Quality: In a trial where participants consumed a daily dose of herbal tea with purple passionflower, improvements in sleep quality were reported after seven days. This suggests that Passionflower may assist in managing mild sleep irregularities (40).
Anxiety Relief: Some studies indicate that Passionflower may also be effective in relieving anxiety. In a study involving patients scheduled for surgery, those who consumed Passionflower reported lower levels of anxiety compared to those who received a placebo (41).
Another study found that Passiflora extract is effective for managing generalized anxiety disorder. It demonstrated a low incidence of impairment of job performance compared to oxazepam, a common medication for anxiety. Further large-scale trials may be justified (42).
Effects on Sleep States: Experiments on adult rats revealed that Passiflora incarnata, the botanical name for Passionflower, significantly increased the total sleep time, primarily by enhancing the duration of slow wave sleep (SWS). This resulted in decreased wakefulness, while the time spent in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep showed a tendency to decrease (43).
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in promoting relaxation, making it an integral factor in initiating and sustaining sleep. Several studies have explored the effects of GABA supplementation on sleep quality and insomnia, yielding promising results:
Faster Sleep Onset and Improved Sleep Quality: A 2018 study involving participants who consumed 300 milligrams of GABA an hour before bedtime reported falling asleep faster compared to a placebo group. Additionally, these individuals experienced enhanced sleep quality four weeks into the treatment (44).
Effective Treatment for Sleep Disorders: Another study demonstrated that low doses (75 mg) of natural GABA effectively treat sleep disorders, particularly sleep-onset insomnia. Patients receiving this lower dose experienced a reduction in sleep latency, suggesting that GABA has a hypnotic effect. Notably, the low dose was associated with no adverse effects (45).
Synergistic Sleep Benefits: A study involving a GABA/l-theanine mixture (100/20 mg/kg) showcased impressive sleep-related effects. This combination reduced sleep latency, increased sleep duration, and improved both rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM sleep compared to individual GABA or l-theanine supplementation. It was suggested that the GABA/l-theanine combination positively affects sleep quality and duration, potentially through neuromodulatory properties (46)
U Relax Side Effects, Safety and Cautions
As of now, there haven’t been reported side effects directly linked to the consumption of U Relax. However, it’s worth noting that Ü Relax hasn’t undergone clinical testing, which makes it somewhat challenging to definitively determine whether it may cause side effects.
To assess possible side effects, let’s focus on the active ingredient, kava. While known for anxiety relief, it raises concerns about liver impact, particularly when used with specific medications.
Kava affects enzymes breaking down kava and other drugs, potentially leading to enzyme inhibition. This accumulation of drugs in the body may harm the liver. (47). Adulteration is another concern associated with kava products (48).
Some companies, in a bid to cut costs, use various parts of the kava plant, such as leaves or stems, rather than the root. It’s worth noting that leaves and stems have been linked to liver-related issues. (49). Calming Co claims to use the root part of the kava plant.
Short-term studies haven’t found evidence of liver damage in individuals using kava supplements for just 1 to 24 weeks (50), (51).
As a result, individuals without pre-existing liver conditions and those not taking medications that affect the liver may potentially use kava safely, provided they adhere to appropriate dosages for about one to two months (52).
Most experts say it’s best to avoid products with proprietary blends, especially when they don’t give you details about the amounts of the ingredients.
Regrettably, U Relax Drink does not specify the milligrams of kava or the percentage contained in the dosage.
We did find a hint on Calming Co’s website that says this. “Most experts recommend that you take no more than 500 milligrams of kavalactones per day (that’s more than two servings of Ü Relax).” But this isn’t a guarantee that U Relax contains around 200mg of kavalactones.
Experts generally recommend that daily kavalactone intake does not exceed 250 mg (source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21112196/), with an effective dose typically falling in the range of 70 to 250 mg (53). So, don’t drink more than 1 serving of Ü Relax per day.
For accurate kavalactone information, choose products specifying content per serving or percentage of kavalactones in the product.
Calming Co suggests not mixing U Relax with alcohol, advises against driving or using heavy machinery post-consumption, and recommends consulting a healthcare professional if you have liver problems or take medication.
In a nutshell, U Relax Drink has not reported any side effects, but more research is needed. So U Relax may not be safe for everyone. If you’re worried about your liver or meds, talk to your doctor before sipping on it.
U Relax Alternatives
Consider these alternatives to U Relax if you have reservations about its Kava content or are seeking options from a reputable company with a proven track record. While not exact substitutes, these alternatives offer similar benefits and have decades of market presence, supported by scientific studies and clinical testing.
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Cortitrol from PharmanexCortitrol is a dietary supplement designed for stress management. It helps regulate cortisol levels, promoting a calm response to stress. The formula includes scientifically-backed natural ingredients for cortisol balance, along with theanine extract from green tea leaves. Theanine enhances relaxed alertness, aiding better sleep and improved performance.
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NightTime Formula from PharmanexNightTime Formula is a sleep supplement with melatonin, valerian, passion flower, and L-theanine for regular sleep. L-theanine, from green tea, boosts calmness, and melatonin supports natural sleep/wake cycles. It promotes better sleep without morning tiredness, ensuring a balanced and restful night.
Taste
U Relax comes in two flavors, Mixed Berry and Pineapple. However, it’s important to mention that taste is an aspect where U Relax, like many kava products, has received some bad reviews. Some individuals have expressed dissatisfaction with the taste, even after attempting to mix it with other beverages like lemonade or combining both flavors.
However, it’s essential to understand that kava, in general, isn’t known for its pleasant taste. In fact, many describe it as resembling muddy water. But most people don’t consume kava for its flavor; they drink it for the relaxation and calming effects it provides.
So, while there are bad reviews regarding the taste, the potential benefits in terms of relaxation may outweigh this drawback for many.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Potential Relaxation: U Relax contains kava, which is known for its potential to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. This can be beneficial for individuals seeking a natural way to unwind.
- Natural Ingredients: U Relax is made from natural ingredients, appealing to those who prefer products with minimal additives.
- 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee: The product comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to try it with a safety net.
- Non-GMO, Gluten-Free, Vegan, Low Calorie, Dairy-Free
Cons
- Taste: One of the notable drawbacks is the taste. U Relax, like many kava products, has received bad reviews regarding its flavor. Some users find it unpalatable, which can be a deterrent for those who prioritize taste.
- Unclear Dosage: U Relax does not specify the exact milligrams of kavalactones or the percentage from the dosage, which can make it challenging for users to determine the potency of the product.
- Safety Concerns: While kava may offer relaxation benefits, there are safety concerns related to its potential impact on the liver, especially when combined with certain medications. This necessitates caution and consulting with a healthcare professional, particularly for individuals with liver issues or those taking medications.
- Lack of Clinical Testing: U Relax has not undergone clinical testing, which may make it difficult to determine its efficacy and safety through scientific research.
- Price: U Relax may be considered relatively expensive, with a subscription costing $50 and a one-time purchase priced at $59. This cost factor may be a consideration for budget-conscious individuals.
Conclusion
U Relax offers a kava-based beverage with potential benefits for relaxation and stress relief. While the taste may not be its strong suit, the reported calming effects could outweigh any concerns about flavor. Safety considerations include the lack of reported side effects, but it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider if you have liver issues or are taking medications. Furthermore, the absence of detailed ingredient amounts in the product raises questions. As more research emerges, U Relax’s overall safety and efficacy may become clearer.
