INTRODUCTION

Sereni-T™ is a unique formulation developed to naturally alleviate both stress and mild anxiety symptoms. It combines a number of high quality herbal extracts and nutrients within the Episorb® delivery system that may produce a mood-modulating outcome to help combat this phenomenon of life in the modern world. Stress and anxiety symptoms may become consistent companions to everyday life. It is believed that 1 in 3 people in Australia suffer from some form of moderate to excessive stress.1 The effects of stress and anxiety may become contributors to less than optimal mental and physical health in the western world.

Stress is defined as a reaction to adverse situations, while anxiety develops from the anticipation of adverse situations in the future. In recent times, for many people, both stress and anxiety symptoms have become accepted as a part of everyday life, as the ‘norm’. Life in general has become more complex. Numerous people experience an increase in pressures, in their jobs and in their home life. We take on competition, expectations, ambition and responsibilities and we make them our own. We may struggle to maintain and improve our standards of living. We tend to worry more. Many people may be uncertain about the future, both at home and of the world at large. For some, their relationships and support systems may have broken down. We are experiencing change at a rapidly increasing rate. We may be concerned about our own circumstances and the consequences of world events.

As the body’s natural physiological response to challenges and changes, stress in the short term is both a useful tool in strengthening the immune system to cope during difficult times and as an uncomfortable state of being to aid us in steering towards good decision making. It is when these difficult times, these challenges and changes become consistent, overlapping and long term that this protective device becomes a destructive device to our overall health and well-being.2

People suffering from long-term stress or anxiety may experience a variety of symptoms that can include nervousness, an inability to relax or think clearly, fatigue, lowered immunity to illness, mild mood fluctuations and sleep disorders3. In an attempt to relieve these symptoms some people often chose unhealthy eating of comfort foods and other poor and excessive lifestyle choices. This can exasperate the symptoms of stress. If left untreated the symptoms of stress and anxiety may become more complicated, contributing to certain nervous disorders, digestive disorders, allergies, weight gain, blood sugar imbalances, auto immune diseases. On-going stress and anxiety may accelerate the ageing process, having a direct impact on, mental performance and osteoporosis.4

Stress and anxiety symptoms may have a physiological effect on brain function. The brain has a rhythm in much the same way the heart does. When the brain functions on the faster beta rhythm, known as beta waves, the mind is focused on logic, language and thought. Beta rhythm is also associated with worry, fear, doubt and sarcasm. It is the level where we evaluate and interpret everything that is happening to us. Most adults spend approximately 90% of their waking state with the beta rhythm predominating. This is the rhythm of the brain under stress. In beta rhythm we find it difficult to concentrate and our ability for memory recall diminishes. Beta is the level where we observe things and mentally decide how we feel about them. It is called the outer conscious level. In the lower rhythm known as alpha waves, the mind is more calm, lateral and creative.5 The alpha brain rhythm is our strongest, most prominent brain rhythm. It is commonly called the super conscious level of our mind. For us to remain calm, imaginative and to have the ability to remember names, past events, faces or any information, it is necessary to for our brain’s rhythm to momentarily change. By triggering alpha rhythms, we promote relaxation and begin functioning at our most optimum. Sereni-T™ contains ingredients that may help to stimulate this alpha rhythm within the brain. Experiencing more alpha rhythms in daily life may lead to reduced stress and a healthier and energised mental state. A calmer mind can make better decisions and better lifestyle choices.

CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

  • Assists with the relief of symptoms associated with anxiety
  • Assists with the relief of symptoms associated with stress
  • Improve the body’s ability to adapt to stress at times of physical or emotional exhaustion
  • Improves cognitive function including increased production of alpha brain waves
  • Contains Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids from Deep Sea Fish Oil, which are structural components of the brain
  • Includes Vitamins B1, B5 and B6 which are involved in the production of the brain’s neurotransmitters, for healthy cognitive performance and for supporting a healthy nervous system.

PRODUCT FORMULA

    Each Capsule of Sereni-T™ contains herbal extracts equiv. to dry:
  • Camellia sinensis (Green Tea) leaf – 10g (10,000mg). No less than 25mg theanine (by HPLC).
  • Withania somnifera (Winter Cherry) root – 1.5g (1500mg). No less than 3.75mg withanolides (by HPLC).
  • Natural Fish Oil (Tuna oil) 500mg (equiv. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) 130mg)
  • Vitamin B1 (Thiamine nitrate) 5mg
  • Vitamin B5 (Panthothenic acid from Calcium pantothenate 3.33mg) 3mg
  • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine hydrochloride) 1.21mg

KEY PRODUCT POINTS:

  • Standardised extracts of the herbs Withania somnifera and Camellia sinensis are used to ensure quality and consistency.
  • The Camellia sinensis within Sereni-T™ contains high levels of theanine.
  • The Withania somnifera within Sereni-T™ contains the highest levels of withanolides.
  • Sereni-T™ contains high quality tuna oil which has been deodorised and has orange oil added to avoid any fishy aftertaste.
  • The tuna oil within Sereni-T™ has a beneficial ratio of the Omega-3 fatty acid, DHA.
  • Synergistic B group vitamins to help produce the brains neurotransmitters for healthy cognitive function and to support a healthy functioning nervous system.
  • The Ensorb® delivery system used in Sereni-T™ is unique in improving the absorption of lipid (fat). compounds. This is important when combining oil with a water soluble extract such as those within Sereni-T™
  • The herbs and tuna oil within Sereni-T™ are tested for heavy metals including mercury and pesticide residues to ensure the highest quality and purity.
  • Each capsule of Sereni-T™ is manufactured to the highest standards according to strict GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) in Australia.
  • Sereni-T™ contains no added sugars, preservatives, colours or flavours.

MECHANISMS OF ACTION & CLINICAL EVIDENCE

Camellia sinensis, Green Tea

The Camellia species (green and black tea) have been valued since ancient times for their relaxant and curative properties. The traditional use of green tea is typified by the meditative ritual of the Japanese tea drinking ceremony. Recent research has attributed the relaxant effects of tea to the amino acid theanine which is believed to be unique to tea and certain mushrooms.

Theanine readily crosses the blood-brain barrier where it has been shown to stimulate the production of alpha waves within the brain.6 The differing brain waves are associated with different mental states and consciousness. Alpha waves produce a relaxed and alert state of mind. Research has shown that alpha brain waves are associated with lower levels of anxiety, lower levels of stress and an increase in cognitive function.7 8

In addition, theanine’s mood modulating activities are related to an increase in the neurotransmitters, dopamine and GABA levels in the brain.9 An increase in these neurotransmitters leads to enhanced cognitive function and a regulation of the nervous system which induces a state of relaxation.9

Withania somnifera, Winter Cherry / Ashvagandha

Withania somnifera, (Winter Cherry) is known within the Traditional Ayurvedic medicine system as ‘Ashvagandha’ and is a central rejuventive tonic. Its therapeutic use is well documented during the last 3000-4000 years. 10 The name in Sanskrit refers to both its strengthening and its aphrodisiac qualities.11 The plant has been used to assist memory, combat anxiety, debility, convalescence, nervous exhaustion, inflammatory disorders and promote sexual function. 12

Withania is particularly valued as a tonic, because it has revitalising qualities without being over-stimulating. Much of Withania’s pharmalogical action is linked to the class of constituents called withanolides.12 A fundamental use of Withania is as an adaptogen which is based on its traditional usage and supported by the pharmalogical effects demonstrated in animal studies.10 An adaptogen is an herb that improves adaptability and encompasses herbs that improve the stress adaptation response in those who are physically exhausted or emotionally stressed. Other indications based on its traditional use include relief of the symptoms of anxiety, and improved memory and mood.11

Tuna Oil

The Omega 3 fatty acids are classified as essential because they are not synthesised by the body. It is necessary for the omega 3 fatty acids to be obtained through diet or supplementation. The omega 3 fatty acids and in particular Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), have been identified as having a vital role to play in brain function.13 Fatty fish such as tuna are a rich source of DHA14. DHA is known as the most biological available omega 3.14

Research has demonstrated that a low intake of omega 3’s is associated with mood disorders. Studies have reported that populations that consume more fish are strongly negatively correlated with mood fluctuations 15 Symptoms of anxiety are also reported to respond positively from administration of essential long chain omega 3 fatty acids with indices of stress including appetite, mood, concentration, sleep and cortisol levels all been subject to improvement following use with essential fatty acids.16 DHA is a major structural component in the neuronal cell membrane and thus deficiency will alter the activities of receptors that regulate brain function.15

DHA is the major omega-3 fatty acid found in the brain and is concentrated in phospholipids of various cells of the brain and retina.17 Synaptic membranes and photoreceptors share the highest content of DHA of all cell membranes.17 DHA is involved in memory formation, excitable membrane function, photoreceptor cell biogenesis and function, and neuronal signalling, and has been implicated in neuroprotection.17 In mood and behavior studies it has been shown that DHA was positively associated with NEO–Agreeability (an openness to experience agreeability) and inversely related to cognitive impulsivity (which involves acting without thinking, spur of the moment decisions and lack of planning ahead)

Episorb® delivery system

All of the key ingredients contained in Sereni-T™ are delivered into the bloodstream via the Episorb® system. This is a proven delivery system for lipid soluble compounds which include compounds such as Fish Oil. In this product the Episorb® system pre-emulsifies the tuna oil producing improved dispersion, which in turn provides an improved bioavailability for absorption by the body.

mulsification is the process carried out by the body to digest and absorb fats and thus pre-emulsification prior to ingest will aid the body in these processes. Clinical trials have demonstrated that pre-emulsification of fish oils boosts the absorption of the beneficial fatty acid DHA.18 This increased absorption is proven to lead to faster uptake of the essential fatty acids and these essential fatty acids are then retained at higher levels.

Sereni-T™ Tested

The graph below is the result of scientific testing, specifically performed on the Sereni-T™ product. It clearly demonstrates its superior rate of absorption and bioavailability when combined with the unique Ensorb delivery system, compared to the Sereni-T™ formula without the Ensorb® system.

This graph demonstrates an increase in dissolution (in gastric fluid) by 403.5% (4.035 times)

Agricure Laboratories, Mittagong (Hub Regtop- Trilogie Products Technical Director)

At every time interval, it evidently shows the same Sereni-T™ product, which combines the Episorb® system, dramatically improves the level of availability of the ingredients. This exceptional and potent transport mechanism ensures you get the most out of every capsule taken.

B Vitamins

  • Vitamin B6 is involved in the metabolism of serotonin, a mood modulating neurotransmitter. Deficiency of vitamin B6 is associated with mood disorders and Vitamin B6 is commonly used as a supplement for stress conditions.19
  • Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) deficiency is associated with impaired cognitive function.19
  • Treatment with Vitamin B1 has successfully been used to assist mood and mental function. 20
  • Vitamin B5 is essential for the normal function of the brain and has been used to alleviate mild anxiety symptoms.

DOSAGE GUIDELINES

Adults: Take two capsules daily with food, or as recommended by your healthcare professional.

CAUTIONS AND CONTRAINDICAITONS

  • Safety in pregnancy and lactation has not been established
  • May have drug interactions
  • If symptoms persist consult your Healthcare Professional
  • Vitamins should not replace a balanced diet

1 Australian Bureau of Statistics National Health Survey 2001/Grant Thornton IBOS Survey 2004 http://www.zenatwork.com.au/a/42.html
2 Bruce McEwen, PhD, Neal Miller Distinguished Lecture, American Psychology Association, 2006 Annual Convention , http://www.apa.org/monitor/oct06/stress.html
3 Mayo Clinic (2006) Stress; Unhealthy response to the pressures of life.
4 American Psychology Association study 2006, presented 2006 Annual Convention http://www.sixwise.com/newsletters/07/09/26/some_startling_stress_and_anxiety_stats
5 Martin Hunter Jones, Give your Brain Breathing Space, Manly Daily, 16.1.2008 pg 33
6 Gomez-Ramirez M et al (2007) The deployment of intersensory selective attention: a high-density electrical mapping study of the effects of theanine. Clinical Neuropharmacology 30(1,) 25-38
7 Cooper R et al (2005) medicinal benefits of greet tea part 1. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine 11(3) 521-8
8 Kimura K et al (2007) L-Theanine reduces psychological and physiological stress responses. Biological Psychology 74 (1) 39-45
9 Nathan P et al (2006). The neuropharmacology of L-theanine (N-ethyl-L-glutamine): a possible neuroprotective and cognitive enhancing agent”. Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy 6 (2): 21-30
10 Upton R (ed) (2000) Ashwangdha Root, Withania somnifera ,Quality Control and Therapeutic Monograph American Herbal Pharmacopoeia and Therapeutic Compendium
11 Braun L and Cohen M (2005) Herbs & Natural supplements Elsevier
12 Thorne Research (2005) Monograph Withania somnifera, Alternative Medial Review 9(2) 211-14
13 Peet M and Stokes (2005) Omega 3 fatty acids in the treatment of psychiatric disorders Drugs 65 (8)
14 Covington M (1994) Omega 3 Fatty Acids American Family Physician 70 (1) 133-40
15 Parker et al Omega 3 Fatty Acids and Mood Disorders American Journal of Psychiatry 163 (6) p969-978
16 Yehuda S et al (2005) Mixture of essential fatty acids lower test anxiety Nutritional Neuroscience 8 (4), 265-267
17 Nicolas G. Bazan (2005) Neuroprotection D1 (NPD1): A DHA-Derived Mediator that Protects Brain and Retina Against Cell Injury-Induced Oxidative Stress Brain Pathology 15 (2), 159–166.
18 Garaiova I et al (2007) A randomised cross-over trial in healthy adults indicating improved absorption of omega-3 fatty acids by pre-emulsification Nutrition Journal 6 (4)
19 Revley N (1999) Vitamins etc. Bookman
20 Benton et al (1997) Thiamine supplementation mood and cognitive functioning Psychopharmacology 129 (1), 165-74