Key Active Ingredients in Relax Drank
Drank, marketed as an "extreme relaxation beverage," uses a specific blend of ingredients to promote its calming effects. Unlike energy drinks that contain stimulants, Drank focuses on natural relaxants. The main components found in the original formulation are melatonin, valerian root extract, and rose hips extract.
Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the body that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. In the context of a relaxation drink, synthetic or plant-derived melatonin is added to help signal to the body that it is time to rest. While beneficial for sleep, this ingredient is the primary reason such beverages often come with warnings against driving or operating machinery after consumption, due to the potential for drowsiness.
Valerian Root Extract
Valerian root has a long history of traditional use as a mild sedative and sleep aid. It is believed to work by increasing levels of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which has an inhibitory effect on the central nervous system, helping to quiet nerve activity and induce relaxation. Valerian root's inclusion contributes significantly to the drink's anti-anxiety and calming properties.
Rose Hips Extract
Rose hips are the fruit of the rose plant and are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. While primarily used for their nutritional benefits and mild, natural flavor, they also contribute to the overall herbal profile of the drink. Their antioxidant properties may help protect the body from stress-related cellular damage, though this is a less direct calming mechanism compared to melatonin or valerian.
Other Ingredients and Formulation Concerns
Beyond the active relaxants, relax drank contains a variety of inactive ingredients that contribute to its taste, stability, and appearance. These include:
- Carbonated water
- High fructose corn syrup (a common sweetener)
- Citric acid (for flavor and preservation)
- Natural and artificial flavors
- Sodium citrate and potassium benzoate (preservatives)
- Artificial colors (Red #40 and Blue #1 in the classic version)
- B vitamins, such as niacin, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12
One of the most significant concerns regarding functional beverages like Drank is the use of proprietary blends. This means that while the key ingredients are listed, the specific quantities of each are not disclosed. This can make it difficult for consumers to understand the exact dosage of active ingredients they are consuming. Furthermore, some studies have questioned the stability of certain ingredients, like 5-HTP, in a liquid format.
Drank vs. Other Relaxation Beverages
The market for relaxation drinks has grown beyond Drank, with new brands and formulations constantly appearing. These beverages often utilize different combinations of functional ingredients. Here is a comparison of Drank with other popular relaxation drinks:
| Beverage | Key Relaxant Ingredients | Other Notable Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drank | Valerian Root, Rose Hips, Melatonin | High Fructose Corn Syrup, B-Vitamins | An early and well-known entrant in the market, often contains artificial colors. |
| Neuro Bliss | L-Theanine, Chamomile, Alpha GPC | Vitamin D, Acai, Pomegranate, Blueberry | Uses adaptogens and amino acids rather than valerian root; designed for relaxed focus. |
| Ü Relax | Kava, Ashwagandha, L-Theanine, Lemon Balm | N/A | Features a blend of adaptogens and herbs for stress relief and wellbeing. |
| TRIP Drinks | CBD, Magnesium, Lion's Mane | Various flavors | Focuses on CBD, a cannabinoid known for its calming properties. |
| Sentia Spirits | GABA, Lemon Balm, Schisandra, Hops | Botanical extracts | An alcohol-free functional spirit alternative, uses GABA and adaptogens for its effect. |
Regulatory Landscape and Consumer Awareness
It is important for consumers to recognize that functional beverages are often regulated as dietary supplements, not as conventional food or drugs. This means they are not subject to the same pre-market testing and approval processes by the FDA. The onus is on the manufacturer to ensure their products are safe and accurately labeled, and the actual contents may differ from what is stated.
For this reason, consumers should exercise caution. Key considerations include checking for proprietary blends, being aware of potential drug interactions, and understanding the side effects of active ingredients. For instance, melatonin can cause significant drowsiness, which is a hazard if consumed before driving.
Conclusion
In summary, the ingredients in relax drank are centered around a core blend of melatonin, valerian root, and rose hips extract, intended to promote relaxation and help users unwind. While the active ingredients target natural calming pathways, the product also contains inactive components like high-fructose corn syrup and preservatives. The use of proprietary blends and the lack of stringent FDA regulation for dietary supplements are critical points for consumer awareness. As the market for functional beverages continues to evolve, a wide array of alternative products with different ingredient profiles—from L-theanine and chamomile to adaptogens like kava and ashwagandha—have emerged. It is always wise for consumers to carefully review the ingredients, be mindful of potential side effects, and consider the varying levels of scientific evidence supporting the claims of such products.
Learn more about the history and concerns surrounding relaxation drinks at The Truth About 'Relaxation' Drinks - ABC News.
How the Ingredients in Relax Drank Promote Calmness
Different ingredients in relax drank work through various mechanisms to contribute to a sense of calm. Melatonin helps regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, making it easier to prepare for rest. Valerian root is thought to enhance the levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps calm nerve activity. While rose hips provide nutritional support and antioxidants, their direct calming effect is less pronounced compared to the other two. The overall effect is designed to slow down the body's processes, contrasting with the stimulating effect of caffeine in energy drinks.
Risks and Considerations
While many people turn to relaxation drinks for a natural way to unwind, there are important risks to consider. The risk of unwanted drowsiness is a primary concern, especially if the product is consumed at an inappropriate time, such as before driving or operating heavy machinery. Moreover, the lack of specific dosage information in proprietary blends makes it difficult to predict the strength of the effects. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, those taking medication, or pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before consuming these beverages.
The Expansion of the Functional Beverage Market
The emergence of relax drinks, alongside other functional beverages, represents a significant trend in the food and drink industry. Consumers are increasingly looking for products that offer additional health benefits beyond basic nutrition. This has led to a diversification of ingredients, including various herbal adaptogens, vitamins, and minerals. Some products, like Neuro Bliss, focus on providing calm and focus without heavy sedation, while others, such as Ü Relax, incorporate a broader range of adaptogenic herbs. This market evolution offers consumers more choices but also requires greater vigilance in understanding what they are consuming.
