Calm-R-RestTM contains some of the following: Valerian Root, Hops, Passion Flower, Chamomile, Skullcap, Calcium and Magnesium to name a few.

Valerian Root is an herb that’s long been used by holistic health practitioners as a sedative and is frequently found in over-the-counter sleep preparations. Hops (best known for flavoring in beer) and Passion Flower — traditionally used by Native Americans—are both alleged to have calming effects. Chamomile, also calming, is purported to work as a smooth-muscle relaxant as well. Skullcap — which, according to the Calm-R-RestTM website, was entered into the U.S. Pharmacopoeia in 1863, also has reported soothing properties.

Calm-R-RestTM also includes nutrients like Calcium and Magnesium, both of which play a role in nerve transmission, and Vitamin B6, which the website describes as “critical in the bioavailability of serotonin which is a precursor to melatonin (a hormone produced by the pineal gland and associated with sleep).

The Calm-R-Rest TM formula represents most of the ingredients commonly found in herbal sleep supplements, and it’s probably safe to assume that this product does provide soothing and calming effects that are likely to provide some assistance to individuals who have a hard time relaxing before going to bed.

The product’s website, however, seems to position Calm-R-RestTM as more than just a sleep aid. It goes into considerable detail about the need for the proper proportions of Paradoxical (REM) sleep—in which people actively dream—versus slow wave sleep. While they cite research that backs this up, no information is provided to explain how this particular blend of ingredients would address this specific issue. We were also somewhat surprised at the introductory sentence on the site, which claims that sleep, essential to the well-being of the mind, is “not considered critical to the function of the body.”

• Website details quantities and RDA of ingredients
• Usually ships within 24 hours of order
• Contains some essential nutrients

• No free trial of product offered
• Claims not supported
• Does not provide specific mood-stabilizing benefits
• Does not provide clear dosing guidelines

The ingredients in this formula are staples in most natural sleep formulations and are likely to be both safe and helpful to people seeking calming and soothing benefits. Unfortunately, the website discusses in detail the importance of achieving an optimal balance of REM and non-REM sleep, yet provides absolutely no research or explanation as to how Calm-R-RestTM can provide an edge in this area. The statement that sleep is “not considered critical to the function of the body” might also sound the alarm for consumers seeking a resource that provides reliable health information.

When it comes to supplement that provides a measurable advantage in calming, de-stressing and balancing the mind, herbal sleep supplements are likely to fall short of the task. To truly experience benefits that specifically target these goals, consumers would be better served opting for a supplement that contains the mineral form of Lithium, particularly when combined with the mineral carrier Orotate, which delivers active ingredients directly to the blood/brain barrier where chemical imbalances occur. Purchasing from a website with extensive customer testimonials is also encouraged.