Essence of Night™ supplies 11 mg of zinc per two-capsule serving. We include it as nutritional support within a broader formula, with a clear view of the evidence and its limits.
The nutrient
What does zinc do?
Zinc supports hundreds of enzymes and contributes to protein and DNA synthesis, immune function, and cell signaling. It is an essential mineral: our bodies need an ongoing dietary supply. The recommended daily allowance for most adult women is 8 mg; the U.S. label Daily Value is 11 mg. These reference values describe nutrition, not an effective dose for a sleep condition. [1]
Randomized controlled trial · 2020
A women’s trial did not establish a sleep benefit
In a double-blind study, 60 young university women with premenstrual syndrome received 30 mg of elemental zinc daily or placebo for 3 months. Researchers assessed sleep using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, alongside quality-of-life measures.
The zinc group’s sleep score fell by 1.48 points, but the reported within-group result was P = 0.07, above the conventional 0.05 threshold. The study therefore did not establish a statistically significant sleep improvement. Its clearer finding concerned physical aspects of quality of life. [2]
Randomized controlled trial · 2017
Other research tested food-based interventions
A separate double-blind study followed 120 healthy adults for 12 weeks, comparing four food-based interventions. Wrist activity monitoring found improved sleep efficiency and shorter time to fall asleep in the zinc-rich food group; a zinc-enriched yeast plus astaxanthin group also improved sleep onset.
These results are interesting, but oysters, food matrices, and combined ingredients cannot be assumed to have the same effect as an 11 mg zinc serving in a capsule. [3]
Formula context
Where our 11 mg fits
Our dose provides the U.S. label Daily Value. It is below the 30 mg dose used in the women’s study and should not be presented as a clinically proven sleep dose. A transparent formula lets you see the actual amount; it does not turn research on a different intervention into proof of this one.
For readers, the useful distinction is between meeting a nutritional need and demonstrating an additional sleep effect. One does not automatically establish the other.
Everyday use
Common questions
Would taking more zinc make it work better?
More is not necessarily better. The adult upper intake level is 40 mg daily from all sources. Excess intake can cause nausea, and prolonged high doses can impair copper absorption. Check other supplements before combining them. [1]
Can zinc interact with medicines?
Yes. Zinc can affect absorption of certain antibiotics and penicillamine. Ask a pharmacist about appropriate timing if you take these medicines. [1]
References
Sources
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[1] NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. Zinc health professional fact sheet.
Official nutrient functions, intake reference values, upper intake level, and interactions.
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[2] Jafari et al. 2020. Zinc trial in young women with PMS.
60 women; 30 mg elemental zinc daily for three months; reported sleep-score change did not meet statistical significance.
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[3] Saito et al. 2017. Zinc-rich food interventions and sleep trial.
120 participants over 12 weeks; food-based and combined interventions, not this formula.
Linked studies examine individual ingredients or specific preparations, rather than the complete Essence of Night™ formula. *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.