Relax and de-stress.

• Promotes relaxation without drowsiness
• Helps maintain healthy levels of both serotonin and dopamine
• Helps enhance and stabilize mood
• Helps the body adapt to stress
• Promotes mental clarity

Gluten-Free - The finished product contains no detectable gluten (<10ppm gluten)

Vegan - The product is made without ingredients produced by or derived from animals

Quality Standards - GMP Operations and Standardized Ingredients

Checked For: Heavy Metals, Microbiological Contaminants, Allergens, Residual Solvents, Potency, Purity and Identity

Ashwagandha Root (1.5% Withanolides) Extract
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogen with a long history as a reliever of stress among other things. Commonly known as “Indian ginseng”, it is regarded as a tonic that may benefit various areas of health, including cognitive and behavioral health. Research suggests ashwagandha may have calming capabilities among other actions. Studies have shown that Ashwagandha root may mimic GABA (primary inhibitory neurotransmitter that controls functions in your body and mind) activity, which means this herb may have calming effects on the body and help to balance mood. Ashwagandha may also have antioxidant properties as a protector against free radicals. Additionally, ashwagandha may support healthy levels of cortisol.*

Passion Flower Extract (3.5% Vitexins)
Passiflora incarnata or passionflower possesses health-promoting properties from the leaves, stems and flowers and supports a healthy nervous system. Native Americans used it traditionally to help calm restlessness, as well as a natural aid to subdue nervousness, mood and stress. The main active constituents in passionflower are still contested among researchers, however, research has shown the alkaloids and flavonoids of this herb contribute to its health benefits. Some recent studies suggest flavonoids in passionflower are primarily responsible for its relaxing effects however, more research is needed. One of passionflower’s mechanisms of action may be supporting normal levels of GABA in the brain, which promotes relaxation.*

Rhodiola rosea Root Extract (3% Salidrosides)
“Roseroot” contains a phenylpropanoid glycoside called salidroside/rhodioloside/rhodopsin, which may be responsible for roseroot's relaxation and adaptogenic actions – increasing resistance to the effects of stressors. Animal studies have shown protection from stressors may increase work capacity and decrease occasional fatigue. Roseroot extracts also demonstrate potential for supporting healthy cognitive function, supporting positive energy and mood levels.*

Bacopin™† (Bacopa monniera)
Bacopin has a long history in promoting health. Traditionally it has been used for promoting cognitive health, such as supporting memory function and mood balance. The main active constituents of Bacopa are saponins, which includes the chemical compounds bacoside A and bacoside B. Bacosides A and B have been shown in research studies to support learning ability, cognitive performance and improve mood. Bacopa also contains the flavonoids apigenin and luteolin, which studies have found to support cognitive health. Bacopin is a standardized extract prepared from the leaves of the Bacopa monniera plant, standardized for a minimum of 20% bacosides A and B.

L-Theanine
L-Theanine is the major amino acid found in green tea, historically used for its relaxing effects. Theanine may work for relaxation by promoting normal levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin and dopamine, which are associated with mood regulation. According to research studies, l-theanine does not produce theta brain waves, which are associated with drowsiness.. Theanine has shown to promote alpha brain wave activity, which promotes a “state of alert relaxation,” and may support healthy stress responses.*

Eleuthero Root Extract (0.8% Eleutherosides)
Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is an adaptogen which historically has been used in helping the body adapt to stress and occasional fatigue. It is also known as Siberian ginseng, however, it is only a relative of ginseng and not a true ginseng. As an adaptogen, eleuthero supports homeostasis, or balance, helping the body to deal with stressful conditions. Eleuthero may support adrenal gland function when the body is under stress. In addition to its effect on stress, Eleuthero may support cognitive function. In studies, it has been proven to support mental acuity. Additionally, eleuthero may promote healthy physical functional capacity and body performance. Eleutherosides are the active compounds found in eleuthero that researchers believe provide many of its health benefits.*

1. What is stress and how can it affect your body?
   We all have an idea of what stress means, but that idea may not be complete. Stress is a person’s physical mental or emotional response to change or demand. The different types of stress include acute, episodic and chronic. Acute stress is your reaction to pressures or anticipated pressures of the recent past and near future respectively.₃ It’s short-term stress and includes everyday situations like traffic or having an argument. Episodic stress is frequent acute stress.₃ Usually those with episodic stress have constant nervous energy, have too much going on in their life that they cannot seem to get their head above water, are irritable and impatient, or are always worrying about life. Chronic stress₃ results in feeling hopeless about escaping a situation(s) that is depressing, painful or traumatic over extended amounts of time. Being homeless, feeling trapped in a job you hate, or challenging family dynamics can lead to chronic stress. Another point to remember is that stressors don’t always carry a negative connotation. There can be both positive and negative stress in everyday life: eustress and distress. Eustress can be the thrill of a rollercoaster ride, beginning a new job or having a baby – all positive life events that create normal, nervous or overwhelmed reactions.₄ Distress is the opposite and includes negative stressors like experiencing a death, having a car accident, work or relationship conflict.₄
   
   
2. What are common symptoms of stress?
   Common physical and psychological symptoms of stress may include irritability or anger, feeling nervous or worried, lack of interest or motivation, feeling tired, feeling overwhelmed, feeling sad, upset stomach and muscle tension. _4,5
   
   
3. What are adaptogens?
   Adaptogens are natural substances that may help the body adapt to physical and emotional stressors.₆ They have thousands of years’ worth of history, thought to promote calming, and mood balancing qualities.₆ Common adaptogens include ashwagandha, eleuthero, passionflower and rhodiola – which are in Bliss.*
   
   
4. Bliss helps maintain healthy levels of serotonin. What is serotonin and how does it affect mood and behavior?
   As a neurotransmitter, serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) plays a key role in the central nervous system and digestive system as it sends messages and signals between nerve cells.₅ In the brain, extensive research suggests` serotonin is heavily involved in mood regulation. Also known as the “happy” or “feel-good” brain chemical, when serotonin levels are low, many people experience poor or imbalanced mood symptoms.₇* When serotonin levels are healthy, people are more likely to experience calmer, more focused and stable moods.₇*
   
   
5. Bliss helps maintain healthy levels of dopamine. What is dopamine and how does it affect mood and behavior?
   Like serotonin, dopamine is a neurotransmitter. Research shows dopamine to have several functions in the brain, including its effect on a person’s feelings of reward and motivation, memory, attention and body movement.₈* Low levels of dopamine in the body have shown to alter mood, reducing feelings of motivation and enthusiasm.₈*
   
   
6. What is GABA and how does it affect body and mind?
   GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter that controls functions in your body and mind. Along with glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, balanced levels of these neurotransmitters are associated with relaxing the body and mood regulation.₁₁^*
   
   
7. Are the ingredients in Bliss safe?
   Bliss Anti-Stress formula is a carefully formulated blend of herbal ingredients that do not have any known undesirable side effects.
   
   
8. How does Bliss promote relaxation without drowsiness?
   Bliss contains herbal ingredients like L-theanine that have shown in studies to help relax or reduce stress without the side effect of drowsiness. For example, L-theanine does not produce theta brain waves, which are associated with drowsiness. Instead, studies show it helps support alpha brain waves, promoting a state of relaxation and focus.*
   
   
9. How should I take this product?
   Adults, take two tablets daily, or as directed by your healthcare provider.
   
   
10. When should I take Bliss?
    Bliss may be taken when you know you will be under stress. Taken regularly may allow you to get the full benefits of this product as every day has some kind of stress.*
    
    
11. How long before I see results?
    Although everyone’s body is different, generally, results do not take long to experience. Many people feel the effects of Bliss after the first serving, while others may notice effects after a few days.
    
    
12. Can I take Bliss Anti-Stress Formula instead of my prescription?
    No, it is not intended to replace prescription drugs. Bliss Anti-Stress is a dietary supplement designed to help adapt to stress and enhance mood.* Consult with your healthcare provider before you stop taking any prescription(s).
    
    
13. If I am on a prescription for anxiety and/or depression, is it safe to use Bliss Anti-Stress Formula?
    While all the ingredients in Bliss are herbal, they may have side effects. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider before you begin using any dietary supplement.
    
    
14. Are there any contraindications for Bliss?
    If you are currently taking warfarin (Coumadin), other antiplatelet/anticoagulant medications, antihypertensive medications, antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications or have an ongoing medical condition, you should consult your healthcare provider before using this product. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use this product. This product may decrease the effects of caffeine and other stimulants.
    
    
15. What are other ways I can manage stress?^*
    Bliss can be a helpful dietary supplement for helping you adapt to stress and feel more balanced.* However, Bliss is not a cure to stress. Rather it is formulated to help adapt to stress and balance mood.* Other ways to help manage stress include recognizing signs of how your body responds to stress,₁₂ as they may indicate you are not coping with situations in ways that benefit your health. You can also try activities like exercise₁₂, which may boost your mood, or things that promote relaxation (e.g. meditation, yoga, etc.). Additionally, having a support network of friends and/or family₁₂ may be a helpful way to help manage stress levels. One last thing – when you feel overwhelmed and don’t think you can cope, reach out to a healthcare professional for help.₁₂ They may help provide you with resources and recommendations.

• Bhattacharya, S. K., et al. Adaptogenic activity of Withania somnifera: an experimental study using a rat model of chronic stress.  Pharmacol Biochem Behav.  75(3):547-555, 2003.
• Candelario, M. et al. Direct evidence for GABAergic activity of Withania somnifera on mammalian ionotropic GABAA and GABAρ receptors. J Ethnopharmacol, 171: 264-272. 2015.
• Davydov M and Krikorian AD. Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. & Maxim.) Maxim. (Araliaceae) as an adaptogen: a closer look. J Ethnopharmacol 72:345-93, 2000.
• Dhuley, JN. Effect of ashwagandha on lipid peroxidation in stress-induced animals. J Ethnopharmacol.  60(2):173-178, 1998.
• Dhuley, JN. Adaptogenic and cardioprotective action of ashwagandha in rats and frogs. J Ethnopharmacol 70(1):57-63, 2000.
• Dufresne, CJ and Farnworth ER. A review of latest research findings on the health promotion properties of tea. The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry 12(7): 404-21, 2001.
• Gaffney, B. T., et al. Panax ginseng and Eleutherococcus senticosus may exaggerate an already existing biphasic response to stress via inhibition of enzymes which limit the binding of stress hormones to their receptors.  Medical Hypotheses.  56(5):567-572, 2001.
• Grandhi A. A comparative pharmacological investigation of Ashwagandha and Ginseng. J Ethnopharmacol 44(3):131-5, 1994.
• Ito, K., et al. Effects of L-theanine on the release of alpha brain waves in human volunteers.  Nippon Nogeikagaku Kaishi 72:153-157, 1998.
• Jang, S. et al. Luteolin Inhibits Microglia and Alters Hippocampal-Dependent Spatial Working Memory in Aged Mice. The Journal of Nutrition, 140(10):1892-1898. 2010
• Kelly, G. Nutritional and botanical interventions to assist with the adaptation to stress. Alt Med Review 4: 249-265, 1999.
• Kelly, G. Rhodiola rosea: a possible plant adaptogen. Altern Med Rev 6(3):293-302., 2001. Review.
• Kimura, K. et al. l-Theanine reduces psychological and physiological stress responses. Biological Psychology, 74(1): 39-45. 2007.
• Kongkeaw, C. et al. Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on cognitive effects of Bacopa monnieri extract. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 151(1): 528-635, 2014.
• Kuo, J. et al. The effect of eight weeks of supplementation with Eleutherococcus senticosus on endurance capacity and metabolism in human. Chin J Physiol., 53(2): 105-11, 2010.
• Mason, R. 200 mg of Zen: L-Theanine Boosts Alpha Waves, Promotes Alert Relaxation. Alternative and Complementary Therapies 7(2): 91-95, 2001.
• Narinderpal, K. et al. A Review on Pharmacological Profile of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha). RRJBS: 2(4): 6-14. 2013.
• Nobre, A.C., Rao, A and Owen, G.N. L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr 17 (S1):167-168, 2008.
• Panossian, A. and Wikman, G. Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System and the Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Their Stress—Protective Activity. Pharmaceuticals, 3(1): 188-224), 2010.  doi:10.3390/ph3010188
• Panossian, A. et al. Adaptogens Stimulate Neuropeptide Y and Hsp72 Expression and Release in Neuroglia Cells. Front Neurosci., 6:6, 2012.
• Rai, D. Adaptogenic effect of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi). Pharmacol Biochem Behav 75(4):823-30, 2003.
• Russo A, Borrelli F. Bacopa monniera, a reputed nootropic plant: an overview.  Phytomedicine 2005;12:305-317. 
• Singh, N. et al. An Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (Rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med. 8(5 Suppl): 208-213. 2011.
• Souza, C. et al. Commitment of human pluripotent stem cells to a neural lineage is induced by the pro-estrogenic flavonoid apigenin. Advances in Regenerative Biology, 2(0). 2015.
• Spasov, A. A double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study of the stimulating and adaptogenic effect of Rhodiola rosea SHR-5 extract on the fatigue of students caused by stress during an examination period with a repeated low-dose regimen. Phytomedicine 7(2):85-9, 2000.
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• Yin, H. et al. GABA-mimetic actions of Withania somnifera on substantia gelatinosa neurons of the trigeminal subnucleus caudalis in mice. Am J Chin Med, 41(5): 1043-51. 2013.

Bliss ANTI-STRESS FORMULA^†

DIETARY SUPPLEMENT

60 TABLETS

Bliss® Anti-Stress Formula helps to enhance and stabilize mood and helps the body adapt to stress.†

Other ingredients:

Microcrystalline cellulose, dicalcium phosphate, croscarmellose sodium, stearic acid, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, titanium dioxide, ribofl­avin, silica, magnesium stearate.

‡As Bacopin®. Bacopin is a registered trademark of the Sabinsa Corporation.

Directions for use:

Adults, take 2 tablets once daily or as directed by your healthcare provider.

WARNING:

If you are currently taking warfarin (Coumadin), other antiplatelet/anticoagulant medications, antihypertensive medications, antidepressants, or antianxiety medications, consult your healthcare provider before using this product. If you are currently using any other prescription drugs or have an ongoing medical condition, consult your healthcare provider before using this product. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not use this product.

KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.

Protect from heat, light and moisture. Store at 59–86° F (15–30° C). Do not use if safety seal is broken or missing.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.