A Comprehensive, Evidence-Based Approach to Stress Relief and Relaxation

par Maxion Nutrition

In today's fast-paced world, managing stress and maintaining mental well-being are paramount. Maxion Nutrition's MoodPlus offers a synergistic blend of adaptogens, calming herbs, amino acids, and essential B vitamins, all backed by scientific research, to support relaxation, mood balance, and stress resilience.

Chronic stress can lead to mood disturbances, including anxiety and depression, which in turn can impair one's ability to relax. This cycle not only affects mental well-being but also has tangible economic consequences.

  • Economic Impact in Canada: Mental health issues cost the Canadian economy approximately $51 billion annually, encompassing healthcare expenditures and lost productivity.
  • Workplace Absenteeism: Each week, at least 500,000 Canadians are absent from work due to mental health concerns.
  • Mood disorders are among the leading contributors to suicide, which remains one of the top 10 causes of death in Canada—especially among men under 50 and youth aged 15–24 (Statistics Canada, 2023).

Integrating evidence-based nutraceuticals like MoodPlus into stress management programs could help reduce healthcare strain, improve quality of life, and restore lost productivity as a part of a general awareness and supportive health care strategy.

MoodPlus Ingredients and Their Scientific Backing

Adaptogens and Calming Botanicals

  1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
    • An adaptogenic herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, Ashwagandha has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Studies indicate its efficacy in lowering cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone. Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS)
  2. Panax Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)
    • Panax ginseng has demonstrated promising effects in mitigating stress-related symptoms. Several studies have reported improvements in perceived stress levels, mood regulation, and cognitive function following ginseng supplementation. PMC
  3. Rhodiola Rosea (Roseroot)
    • Rhodiola rosea has a long history of use in traditional medicine to stimulate the nervous system, treat stress-induced fatigue and depression. PMC
  4. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
    • Lemon balm holds promise as a calming agent exhibiting both anxiolytic and anti-depressant properties and can elicit cognitive and sleep-quality enhancement. PMC
  5. Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)
    • Passiflora incarnata is one of the herbal remedies used to alleviate the effects of stress. A rat study demonstrated that long-term use of passionflower was correlated with reduced stress levels and, consequently, increased motivation to act and improved motor activity. PMC
  6. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
    • Valerian significantly improved sleep quality, the symptoms of state anxiety, and depression in HD patients. PMC
  7. Chinese Skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis)
    • These results preliminarily suggest that Scutellaria baicalensis can alleviate depressive behaviors and modulate underlying mechanisms, which is expected to be a promising antidepressant. PMC

🧠 Amino Acids and Neurotransmitter Support

  1. L-Theanine
    • L-theanine is a non-protein amino acid commonly found in green tea. It's often credited for the calming effect of tea even when caffeine is in the mix—a paradox that's led scientists to take a closer look at how it affects the brain. Vogue

💊 Essential B Vitamins for Nervous System Health

  1. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
    • Thiamine is sometimes called an "anti-stress" vitamin because it may strengthen the immune system and improve the body's ability to withstand stressful conditions. Mount Sinai Health System
  2. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
    • The results of the reviewed studies confirm the antioxidant nature of riboflavin and indicate that this vitamin can protect the body against oxidative stress. PubMed
  3. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
    • Niacinamide prevents keratinocyte senescence due to photoaging and oxidative stress, with a study showing that it promotes the repair of DNA damage induced by UV rays. PMC
  4. Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
    • Without support from vitamin B5, your adrenal glands can really struggle with the effects of chronic stress. Dr. Jolene Brighten
  5. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
    • It has recently been discovered that taking high doses of vitamin B6 supplements significantly reduces feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. PMC
  6. Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)
    • In the present study, we evaluated if folic acid administration to mice could protect against restraint stress-induced depressive-like behavior and cognitive deficit. PubMed
  7. Biotin (Vitamin B7)
    • This study suggests that biotin may have significant therapeutic potential for alleviating the side effects associated with nicotine withdrawal, particularly anxiety and depression. ScienceDirect
  8. Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)
    • Based on human and animal research, it appears a variety of nutritional and botanical substances—such as adaptogenic herbs, specific vitamins including ascorbic acid, vitamins B1 and B6, the coenzyme forms of vitamin B5 (pantethine) and B12 (methylcobalamin)—may allow individuals to sustain an adaptive response and minimize some of the systemic effects of stress. PubMed

MoodPlus as Part of a Comprehensive Mental Health Strategy

While MoodPlus offers a natural approach to managing stress and enhancing mood, it's essential to recognize that supplements should complement, not replace, other treatments. For men, women, and adolescents experiencing mood disturbances, integrating MoodPlus with therapy, physical activity, and other lifestyle modifications can be beneficial.

Given the significant economic and personal toll of mental health issues in Canada, incorporating evidence-based supplements like MoodPlus into broader mental health strategies could contribute to improved well-being and productivity.

Disclaimer: Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

🌿 Final Thoughts: A Natural Step Toward a Calmer Mind

MoodPlus by Maxion Nutrition is more than just a supplement—it’s a science-backed ally in the fight against daily stress, mental fatigue, and low mood. Whether you’re striving to stay focused at work, get better sleep, or simply bring more calm to your day, this formula offers a gentle yet effective foundation for mental wellness.

✅ Vegan
✅ Non-GMO
✅ Made in Canada
✅ No artificial colors or preservatives

👉 Ready to experience more calm and clarity?
Explore MoodPlus on Maxion Nutrition and take the first step toward a more balanced you.

📚 Full List of Scientific References

Here’s a recap of peer-reviewed sources supporting MoodPlus ingredients:

·         https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/databases/food,-herbs-supplements.aspx

·         Fatima K, Malik J, Muskan F, et al. Safety and efficacy of Withania somnifera for anxiety and insomnia: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Psychopharmacol 2024.

·         Chandrasekhar K, Kapoor J, Anishetty S. A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Safety and Efficacy of a High-Concentration Full-Spectrum Extract of Ashwagandha Root in Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Adults. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine. 2012;34(3):255-262. doi:10.4103/0253-7176.106022

·         Cooley K, Szczurko O, Perri D, et al. Naturopathic care for anxiety: a randomized controlled trial ISRC TN78958974. PLoS One 2009;4:e6628. Psychopharmacol 2024

·         Majeed M, Nagabhushanam K, Mundkur L. A standardized Ashwagandha root extract alleviates stress, anxiety, and improves quality of life in healthy adults by modulating stress hormones: Results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023;102(41):e35521. 

·         Majeed M, Nagabhushanam K, Murali A, Vishwanathan DT, Mamidala RV, Mundkur L. A Standardized Withania somniferra (Linn.) Root Extract with Piperine Alleviates the Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression by Increasing Serotonin Levels: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study. J Integr Complement Med 2023. 

·         Akhgarjand C, Asoudeh F, Bagheri A, et al. Does Ashwagandha supplementation have a beneficial effect on the management of anxiety and stress? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Phytother Res 2022.

·         Lee KH, Bahk WM, Lee SJ, Pae CU. Effectiveness and tolerability of Korean red ginseng augmentation in major depressive disorder patients with difficult-to-treat in routine practice. Clin Psychopharmacol Neurosci 2020;18(4):621-6.

·         Mariage PA, Hovhannisyan A, Panossian AG. Efficacy of Panax ginseng Meyer Herbal Preparation HRG80 in Preventing and Mitigating Stress-Induced Failure of Cognitive Functions in Healthy Subjects: A Pilot, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Trial. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2020 Mar 29;13(4):57. doi: 10.3390/ph13040057. PMID: 32235339; PMCID: PMC7243122.

·         Yoon J, Park B, Hong KW, Jung DH. The effects of Korean Red Ginseng on stress-related neurotransmitters and gene expression: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Ginseng Res. 2023 Nov;47(6):766-772. doi: 10.1016/j.jgr.2023.08.001. Epub 2023 Aug 12. PMID: 38107397; PMCID: PMC10721478.

·         Cropley M, Banks AP, Boyle J. The Effects of Rhodiola rosea L. Extract on Anxiety, Stress, Cognition and Other Mood Symptoms. Phytother Res. 2015 Dec;29(12):1934-9. doi: 10.1002/ptr.5486. Epub 2015 Oct 27. PMID: 26502953.

·         Ivanova Stojcheva E, Quintela JC. The Effectiveness of Rhodiola rosea L. Preparations in Alleviating Various Aspects of Life-Stress Symptoms and Stress-Induced Conditions-Encouraging Clinical Evidence. Molecules. 2022 Jun 17;27(12):3902. doi: 10.3390/molecules27123902. PMID: 35745023; PMCID: PMC9228580.

·         Darbinyan V, Aslanyan G, Amroyan E, Gabrielyan E, Malmström C, Panossian A. Clinical trial of Rhodiola rosea L. extract SHR-5 in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. Nord J Psychiatry. 2007;61(5):343-8. doi: 10.1080/08039480701643290. Erratum in: Nord J Psychiatry. 2007;61(6):503. PMID: 17990195.

·         Gao L, Wu C, Liao Y, Wang J. Antidepressants effects of Rhodiola capsule combined with sertraline for major depressive disorder: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Affect Disord. 2020 Mar 15;265:99-103. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.01.065. Epub 2020 Jan 15. PMID: 32090788.

·         Edwards D, Heufelder A, Zimmermann A. Therapeutic effects and safety of Rhodiola rosea extract WS® 1375 in subjects with life-stress symptoms--results of an open-label study. Phytother Res. 2012 Aug;26(8):1220-5. doi: 10.1002/ptr.3712. Epub 2012 Jan 6. PMID: 22228617.

·         Kasper S, Dienel A. Multicenter, open-label, exploratory clinical trial with Rhodiola rosea extract in patients suffering from burnout symptoms. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2017 Mar 22;13:889-898. doi: 10.2147/NDT.S120113. PMID: 28367055; PMCID: PMC5370380.

·         Mathews IM, Eastwood J, Lamport DJ, Cozannet RL, Fanca-Berthon P, Williams CM. Clinical Efficacy and Tolerability of Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis L.) in Psychological Well-Being: A Review. Nutrients. 2024 Oct 18;16(20):3545. doi: 10.3390/nu16203545. PMID: 39458539; PMCID: PMC11510126.

·         Ghazizadeh J, Sadigh-Eteghad S, Marx W, Fakhari A, Hamedeyazdan S, Torbati M, Taheri-Tarighi S, Araj-Khodaei M, Mirghafourvand M. The effects of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) on depression and anxiety in clinical trials: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Phytother Res. 2021 Dec;35(12):6690-6705. doi: 10.1002/ptr.7252. Epub 2021 Aug 27. PMID: 34449930.

·         Safari M, Asadi A, Aryaeian N, Huseini HF, Shidfar F, Jazayeri S, Malek M, Hosseini AF, Hamidi Z. The effects of melissa officinalis on depression and anxiety in type 2 diabetes patients with depression: a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical trial. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2023 May 2;23(1):140. doi: 10.1186/s12906-023-03978-x. PMID: 37131158; PMCID: PMC10152712.

·         Cases J, Ibarra A, Feuillère N, Roller M, Sukkar SG. Pilot trial of Melissa officinalis L. leaf extract in the treatment of volunteers suffering from mild-to-moderate anxiety disorders and sleep disturbances. Med J Nutrition Metab. 2011 Dec;4(3):211-218. doi: 10.1007/s12349-010-0045-4. Epub 2010 Dec 17. PMID: 22207903; PMCID: PMC3230760.

·         Kennedy DO, Little W, Scholey AB. Attenuation of laboratory-induced stress in humans after acute administration of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm). Psychosom Med. 2004 Jul-Aug;66(4):607-13. doi: 10.1097/01.psy.0000132877.72833.71. PMID: 15272110.

·         Kennedy DO, Little W, Haskell CF, Scholey AB. Anxiolytic effects of a combination of Melissa officinalis and Valeriana officinalis during laboratory induced stress. Phytother Res. 2006 Feb;20(2):96-102. doi: 10.1002/ptr.1787. PMID: 16444660.

·         Shinjyo N, Waddell G, Green J. Valerian Root in Treating Sleep Problems and Associated Disorders-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Evid Based Integr Med. 2020 Jan-Dec;25:2515690X20967323. doi: 10.1177/2515690X20967323. PMID: 33086877; PMCID: PMC7585905.

·         Ma Y, Zhou X, Zhang F, Huang C, Yang H, Chen W, Tao X. The effect of scutellaria baicalensis and its active ingredients on major depressive disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis of literature in pre-clinical research. Front Pharmacol. 2024 Mar 20;15:1313871. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1313871. PMID: 38572433; PMCID: PMC10987764.

·         Brock C, Whitehouse J, Tewfik I, Towell T. American Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora): a randomised, double-blind placebo-controlled crossover study of its effects on mood in healthy volunteers. Phytother Res. 2014 May;28(5):692-8. doi: 10.1002/ptr.5044. Epub 2013 Jul 22. PMID: 23878109.

·         Lu K, Gray MA, Oliver C, et al. The acute effects of L-theanine in comparison with alprazolam on anticipatory anxiety in humans. Hum Psychopharmacol 2004;19:457-65.

·         Hidese S, Ota M, Wakabayashi C, et al. Effects of chronic l-theanine administration in patients with major depressive disorder: an open-label study. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2017;29(2):72-9.

·         Nobre AC, Rao A, Owen GN. L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008;17 Suppl 1:167-8. PMID: 18296328.

·         Hidese S, Ogawa S, Ota M, Ishida I, Yasukawa Z, Ozeki M, Kunugi H. Effects of L-Theanine Administration on Stress-Related Symptoms and Cognitive Functions in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2019 Oct 3;11(10):2362. doi: 10.3390/nu11102362. PMID: 31623400; PMCID: PMC6836118.

·         Shamabadi A, Kafi F, Arab Bafrani M, Asadigandomani H, A Basti F, Akhondzadeh S. l-theanine adjunct to sertraline for major depressive disorder: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Affect Disord 2023;333:38-43.

·         Benton D, Griffiths R, Haller J. Thiamine supplementation mood and cognitive functioning. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 1997 Jan;129(1):66-71. doi: 10.1007/s002130050163. PMID: 9122365.

·         Wu Y, Zhang L, Li S, Zhang D. Associations of dietary vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 with the risk of depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Rev. 2022 Feb 10;80(3):351-366. doi: 10.1093/nutrit/nuab014. PMID: 33912967.

·         Stough C, Scholey A, Lloyd J, Spong J, Myers S, Downey LA. The effect of 90 day administration of a high dose vitamin B-complex on work stress. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2011 Oct;26(7):470-6. doi: 10.1002/hup.1229. Epub 2011 Sep 8. PMID: 21905094.

·         Kennedy, D.O., Veasey, R., Watson, A. et al. Effects of high-dose B vitamin complex with vitamin C and minerals on subjective mood and performance in healthy males. Psychopharmacology 211, 55–68 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-010-1870-3Bottom of Form

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