Monteloeder’s RelaxPLX promotes melatonin production to enhance sleep quality, research reveals

29 May 2024 --- A clinical trial reveals that Monteloeder’s RelaxPLX supplement improves sleep patterns and increases endogenous secretion of melatonin, the sleep-inducing hormone. The supplement is a pure extract of lemon verbena, Aloysia citrodora.

Traditionally used as a digestive aid and to reduce muscle spasms and tension, Monteloeder observes a growing interest in lemon verbena’s impact on mood and sleep, specifically for its soothing effects, ability to provide emotional comfort and boost sleep quality. 

Through a Visual Analogue Scale survey, the researchers found significant improvements in overall sleep quality in the study participants taking RelaxPLX compared to the placebo group. Study participants reported that the supplement helped them drift off to sleep faster and experience better sleep quality midway through the 90-day study. 

“We discovered the positive effects of our lemon verbena on sleep while evaluating its use for joint health in athletes,” says Maria Ángeles Gutiérrez, marketing director at SuanNutra, Monteloeder’s parent company. 

“This initial finding spurred the development of RelaxPLX. Since then, we have explored how standardized doses can improve sleep quality, which we believe is critical to overall health, mental well-being and longevity. Our first eight-week clinical trial on 40 participants demonstrated RelaxPLX’s capabilities in alleviating occasional stress and sleep difficulties. The current clinical study aimed to confirm and delve deeper into these benefits.” 

Sleep quality  
Monteloeder asserts that sleep deficit is “one of the most prevalent complaints in the public health domain.” Sleep issues include non-restorative slumber, difficulties falling asleep and frequent awakenings. Such sleep problems may interfere with daily functions and, in the long term, can even deeply impact physical and mental well-being. 

Innova Market Insights data indicates that insomnia claims on supplements are growing globally, with a 4% year-on-year growth from October 2021 to September 2023. 

After 45 days of taking RelaxPLX, the trial participants reported sleep quality improvements.Monteloeder’s randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study included 71 healthy adult participants complaining of sleep disturbances, assessed through a validated questionnaire. The results are published in Nutrients. 

The participants took a capsule with 400 mg of RelaxPLX or a placebo one hour before bedtime for 90 consecutive days. They were instructed not to change their dietary habits or physical activity. 

Measuring improvements 
In addition to participants’ self-reported sleep improvements, the researchers validated these with actigraphy measurement — using an accelerometer in a small device like a wristwatch. These recorded physiological improvements in sleep latency, efficiency and fewer sleep disruptions or awakenings. 

Moreover, researchers found that nocturnal plasma melatonin levels in participants taking RelaxPLX increased by over 14%. Monteloeder notes that this is a “highly sought-after” trait in sleep supplements. 

“Botanical extracts have progressively gained the attention of consumers worldwide who are seeking natural interventions to improve well-being, and especially to promote a positive mental outlook and sleep quality. Our clinical studies endorse its role as an effective holistic solution for improving sleep and quality of life,” comments Gutiérrez.

Lemon verbena benefits 
RelaxPLX is standardized to 24% verbascosides, the key polyphenol in lemon verbena leaves responsible for its effect on sleep. Monteloeder uses a proprietary method of hydroalcoholic leaf extraction to deliver a concentration of flavonoids, vitamins and minerals. The company concentrates these active compounds through microfiltration, followed by low-temperature drying to preserve them. 

An earlier pharmacokinetic analysis of RelaxPLX suggests that verbascosides are rapidly absorbed with maximum plasma concentrations within 20 minutes. The supplement has also demonstrated its ability to reduce the stress hormone cortisol. 

Research supports several mechanisms of action for lemon verbena, such as increasing sensitivity to the relaxing GABA-A receptor, enhancing neuroprotective brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression and improving serotonin, noradrenaline and dopamine production. 

By Jolanda van Hal