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Source Naturals Relora Review – Is it Effective?

By Sasha de Beausset Aparicio, MSc

Reviewed by Rebecca Williams, MD, MA, MB, BChir

Last Updated:

Evidence Based | Summary | What's Inside? | Pros & Cons | Warnings | Cost | How To Take | Verdict

Relora is a dietary supplement offered as a solution to relieve stress induced eating and common symptoms of particular mood disorders caused by a stressful lifestyle. The formula is marketed by Source Naturals, an American company founded in 1982. The manufacturer is specialized in developing nutritional supplements based on high quality ingredients. They claim to be one of the innovators in the industry of dietary foods and list several award-winning formulations that underline their devotion to creating superior nutrition (Wellness Formula, Life Force Multiple, Higher Mind, etc.). The company seems to enjoy a good reputation among consumers of nutritional supplements.

This product is based on the therapeutic effects of a patented-pending herbal blend and the mineral Calcium. The plant based proprietary formula is known as the Relora extract and is a trademark of Next Pharmaceuticals. Complete information about this compound is available on the official site of its developer.

Relora is designed to help adults interested in trying a natural approach to fight against daily stress negative consequences. The formula is not intended to be used by individuals who are already under prescription medication (especially those who take antidepressant drugs). The formula may impair with the ability to drive or operate heavy machinery due to a common side effect reported (drowsiness).

Summary

1) What is Relora?

Relora features a synergistic combination of herbal extracts and Calcium.

Relora combines the health benefits of 2 Chinese medicinal plants, namely Phellodendron amurense and Magnolia officinalis. Relora’s benefits seem to mainly focus on alleviating stress and curb-related eating (as resulted from several clinical trials). Both plant extracts featured by this blend are believed to be effective in calming a part of the brain called the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. The benefits of the proprietary blend seem to come from its ability to regulate cortisol levels. This is a hormone secreted by the body when physical or emotional stress occurs. However, when excess of cortisol takes place due to the body’s inability to regulate its levels, a large number of negative processes may occur. A number of unwanted side effects result from these processes, such as: increased risk of infections, high blood pressure, bone system disorders (osteoporosis), diabetes, increased appetite leading to weight problems (fat deposits particularly in the abdominal area), and depression.

The symptoms associated with depression usually manifest as increased irritability, insomnia, anxiety, nervousness, emotional ups and downs, etc.The active substances from Relora are advertised as shown to reduce symptoms associated with stress including food cravings, and to promote relaxation, increase the sense of well-being, and improve the quality of sleep. One of the conditions for which the formula is most prescribed isanxiety. Common side effects of Relora are: dry mouth, reduced blood pressure, and drowsiness. More serious but rather uncommon adverse reaction may manifest as thyroid and sexual dysfunction, hand tremors or heartburn.

Relora has received generally positive reviews from consumers who report better sleep patterns, reduced tension, healthier eating patterns and reduced cravings, and calming effects. The negative testimonials report the occurrence of mild allergies (as rashes) or the absence of any noticeable benefit. The formula also seems to be endorsed by Dr. Oz, a reputable doctor and popular TV host.

Interestingly, Relora is also found in Source Naturals Theanine Serene with Relora.

What’s Inside?

2) What’s Inside Relora?

Relora contains the following ingredients: Calcium, Relora, Dibasic Calcium Phosphate, Stearic Acid, Silica, and modified cellulose gum.

3) Is Relora Right for You?

Relora includes two active ingredients.

Relora, an herbal extract commonly used as an ingredient in nutritional supplements, is one of them. The extract is based on two plant excerpts from the barks of Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense. These plants have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years to treat a large variety of disorders including weight management problems, anxiety, and other mood problems.

The compound is believed to have a positive influence on the levels of a human hormone called Cortisol. This hormone is produced by the adrenal life and is essential for the proper functioning of the human body. Normal levels of Cortisol regulate blood pressure, maintain immune function, and control anti-inflammatory processes. However, elevated levels for prolonged periods of time may lead to a large variety of unwanted side effects that affect the overall health. Some of these side effects include weight gain (as a result of increased appetite), depression, memory problems, skin conditions, elevated blood sugar levels and inflammatory conditions (such as asthma, arthritis, and lupus). Cortisol is usually released as a response to stressful situations, whether it is physical or emotional stress. It helps the body cope with stress by helping it break down proteins fats and carbohydrates. Relora helps the body control the levels of Cortisol in the body which can reach dangerous levels when the body is subjected to stress for a prolonged period. However, there are many researchers who claim that the relation Relora-Cortisol is not scientifically supported basing their allegations on the reduced number of trials and the inconclusive data resulted. Relora’s side effects have also been reported by consumers particularly in the form of a sensation of drowsiness.

Another worrying side effect associated with too much Cortisol in the body is a reduction of Calcium absorption which on long-term causes irreversible damage to the bone system (such as osteoporosis). Source Naturals’ formulation includes Calcium as a preventive measure against bone damage and support for already healthy bones.

The suggested dose is one tablet three times per day.

There are testimonials posted online about Relora. What is being stated includes the following:

  • I saw the Relora on Dr. Oz show. In just a few days, I lost the urge to eat, and I feel calm. This is not a weight loss supplement, it’s for “stress eaters,” thus addresses stress, and that is why I picked it.

  • I work a pretty stressful job and do fine with the stress but worry about the belly affect. I can honestly say that taking Relora does make me feel less tense while at work and, I take it at night to help wind down and get to sleep

  • This product has been very helpful for me in relieving my stress. I feel much calmer, although the stressors continue. I am so happy that I happened to watch the Dr. Oz Show that day.

Relora side effects are not mentioned as such by the manufacturer, although drowsiness has often been reported. Precautions refer to pregnant and breastfeeding women or women who plan on being pregnant.

Pros & Cons

4) Relora: Pros and Cons

  • A month supply comes at a rather affordable price
  • The formula is well received by the great majority of consumers
  • The active ingredients are scientifically researched (with positive results in terms of effectiveness and lack of side effects)
  • A full list of online retailers is available on the official site
Warnings

5) Relora Product Warnings

  • Relora can only be purchased via retailers
  • There is no money back guarantee or free trial available
  • The supplement is not researched as such, but the Relora blend seems to have been the subject of several studies
  • The manufacturer doesn’t mention the common side effects associated with Relora
Cost

6) How Much Does Relora Cost?

Relora is available in 2 sizes providing the necessary supply for up to 1-2 months. The price for a month supply is relatively low. The formula cannot be purchased online directly from the manufacturer. However, various online retailers offer this product. A full list of online partners is available for consulting on the official web page of the manufacturer. Source Naturals also offers details about local stores that commercialize this supplement. A zip code of the area is required to access this information.
The formula does not seem to come with a money-back guarantee. Online partners offer various promotions. It also appears that some of the online retailers sell the product at a lower price than the one recommended by the producer.

How To Take

7) How to Take Relora

The suggested dose is 1 tablet three times a day with or without meals.

Verdict

8) Our Verdict on Relora

In terms of composition, Relora is not a unique supplement. The main active extract is a common ingredient of dietary supplements designed to promote healthy weight management and stress support. Relora has become increasingly popular due to various scientific studies that support its effectiveness in alleviating symptoms of depression and promoting healthier eating habits. The lack of any potentially dangerous side effect is believed to be another important advantage of this ingredient. However, human studies are rather limited and given the fact that Relora has antidepressant and antihistamine properties, it is best to avoid its consumption together with other sedative medication (prescription drugs, plant-based supplements, etc.).

Relora is not recommended for the use of children. The manufacturer does not mention anything about the presence of artificial substances and allergens in the formula, but some consumers have complained about skin rashes caused by this product. As with all dietary supplements, it is advisable to ask a healthcare professional before using the formula.

4/5 - (2 votes)
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George R.

I have been suffering from anxiety for several years and struggled with it every day of my life. I used to take prescription drugs, but they only made me feel sleepy all the time and I couldn’t concentrate on anything. After having heard on TV about this new product from Source Naturals, I decided to try it myself. I was running out of options. And I am very glad I did that, because I instantly felt calmer and less anxious.

Nicholas M.

Since I started taking this supplement I am able to control my craving for sweets and I feel more emotional balanced than ever. I love this product because I also did not experience any drowsiness or other side effects. I have tried other formulations to reduce the problems caused by my stressful life, but none seems to work as well.