GABA Powder: Natural Sources, Benefits, and Passionflower’s Unique Role

GABA powder (gamma-aminobutyric acid powder) is a widely used ingredient in modern sleep and stress-relief formulations. As an inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA helps calm the nervous system, reduce neuronal excitability, and support natural relaxation. With stress rising globally, GABA supplement products are increasingly in demand across the nutrition and functional food markets.

Global Demand for GABA and Sleep-Support Ingredients

Fast-paced lifestyles have made sleep challenges more common than ever. Gallup research shows that in 2023:

73% of American adults slept less than 8 hours

20% slept only 4 hours or less

63% said they need more sleep

The global sleep-aid market reached USD 6.8 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow sharply by 2034. This shift drives consumer preference toward natural, non-melatonin, food-grade sleep solutions-fueling the rise of GABA powder as a core ingredient.

Gallup

Passionflower: One of the Highest Natural Sources of GABA

Among 21 analyzed botanical extracts-including valerian, ginseng, and ginkgo-Pink Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata L.) showed the highest in-plant GABA content, reaching 629 mg/100 g in its dried extract.

Passionflower is rich in bioactive compounds such as:

GABA

Flavonoids

Alkaloids

Volatile oils

Passiflora incarnata L

These compounds work synergistically and enhance the body's GABA function through:

1. Receptor Activation

Active molecules bind to GABA-A and GABA-B receptors, increasing sensitivity to GABA signals.

2. Reuptake Inhibition

Passionflower slows synaptic reuptake of GABA, prolonging its calming effects.

This dual action explains why passionflower extract is frequently used in stress-relief, anti-anxiety, and sleep-support formulations in the United States, Russia, Korea, and Japan.

Clinical Evidence: Passionflower Extract for Stress Reduction & Sleep Quality

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study involving 65 adults (18–60 years old) tested the effect of a passionflower extract (SIVI) at 600 mg/day for 30 days.

Stress reduced by 27.67%

Sleep duration improved by 13.33%

Sleep quality increased by 40% (PSQI score dropped from 14.72 → 9.00)

All biological safety markers-including pulse, temperature, blood values, liver & kidney function-remained normal, supporting the ingredient's safety and stability.

How GABA Powder Is Used in Modern Wellness Products

Brands use bulk GABA powder across a wide range of consumer formats:

Sleep gummies

Bedtime drinks & relaxation beverages

Functional coffees & nutrition shakes

Capsules and tablets

Mood-support blends

Women's health and emotional wellness formulas

Daily-use stress-relief foods

As consumers shift toward "snackable wellness," GABA is becoming a foundational ingredient for next-generation emotional and sleep-support products.

[1]Harit MK, Mundhe N, Tamoli S Sr, Pawar V, Bhapkar V, Kolhe G, Mahadik S, Kulkarni A, Agarwal A. Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Clinical Study of Passiflora incarnata in Participants With Stress and Sleep Problems. Cureus. 2024 Mar 20;16(3):e56530.

[2]MIRODDI M, CALAPAI G, NAVARRA M, et al. Passiflora incarnata L.: Ethnopharmacology, clinical application, safety and evaluation of clinical trials [J]. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2013, 150(3): 791-804.

[3]APPEL K, ROSE T, FIEBICH B, et al. Modulation of the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system by Passiflora incarnata L. [J]. Phytotherapy Research, 2011, 25(6): 838-43.