Neuroscientist Andrew Huberman has popularized a no-nonsense, evidence-based approach to sleep through what’s become known as the “Huberman Sleep Cocktail.” Designed to support the body’s natural circadian rhythm and wind-down processes, this stack of supplements has gained popularity. But what exactly is in it—and can other approaches deliver similar benefits, in a gentler, more natural and integrated way?
Let’s explore the principles behind the sleep cocktail, the key ingredients involved, and how functional blends like MOGU’s Cacao blend offer an all natural, science-aligned alternative.
What Is the Andrew Huberman Sleep Cocktail?
Huberman’s Core Sleep Stack
According to Huberman, the sleep cocktail is a combination of supplements designed to promote relaxation and facilitate deeper rest. His foundational stack often includes:
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Magnesium Threonate or Magnesium Bisglycinate (200-400 mg): Supports relaxation and nervous system regulation.
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Apigenin (50 mg): A bioflavonoid found in chamomile, studied for its calming and GABA-modulating effects.
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Theanine (100–200 mg): Promotes alpha brainwave activity, supporting calm focus and sleep latency.
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Glycine (2 g; optional): Supports thermoregulation and deeper stages of sleep.
This stack is typically taken 1–2 hours before bed and is often paired with behavioral strategies like low light exposure, early exercise, and limiting caffeine after midday.
Why the Stack Works: Huberman’s Philosophy
Huberman’s approach is rooted in supporting the neurochemical and hormonal shifts that guide the transition into sleep:
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GABAergic modulation for calming the nervous system.
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Reduction of core body temperature for sleep onset.
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Parasympathetic activation to shift away from fight-or-flight mode.
Precautions and Contraindications
While Huberman’s sleep cocktail is widely discussed for its potential benefits, it's important to consider how these ingredients interact with individual biology. Here are a few points to keep in mind before adding them—or any alternatives like MOGU Cacao—to your nighttime routine:
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Magnesium (Bi)glycinate: Approximately 5% of people report mild gastrointestinal discomfort with this form of magnesium. If you're trying it for the first time, monitor how your body responds.
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L-Theanine: This calming amino acid may not be suitable for everyone. While generally well-tolerated, individuals with a history of parasomnias may want to consult a healthcare provider before use.
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Professional Guidance: Always consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement regimen—especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medication that could interact with adaptogens or amino acids.
A Functional, Flavorful and Natural Alternative to improve sleep: MOGU’s Cacao Blend
Why It Works
MOGU’s Cacao Blend is designed to echo the intent of the Huberman sleep cocktail—without synthetic isolates or dependency of strong sleep aids. Instead, it delivers calm and recovery through whole-food based compounds that support the body’s sleep-wake cycle holistically.
Each element of this evening-friendly blend works synergistically to help:
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Promote sleep onset and relaxation
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Improve sleep quality and sleep efficiency
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Support overnight recovery and hydration
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Regulate stress response and cortisol levels
Here’s how the key ingredients contribute to deeper, more restorative sleep:
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Clinically studied for its anxiolytic and adaptogenic properties, Reishi helps reduce cortisol, promote parasympathetic activity, and support non-REM sleep. It has been linked to improved sleep quality in both human and animal studies, especially under conditions of stress.
Poria (Poria cocos)
A staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Poria supports gut-brain signaling and may modulate GABAergic activity based on research. Modern formulations include it for its potential to reduce mental fatigue and support restfulness. Studies suggest it may assist with sleep quality and efficacy and reduce nocturnal waking by calming the central nervous system and aiding digestion.
Tremella (Tremella fuciformis)
While better known for its skin and hydration benefits, Tremella has demonstrated neuroprotective properties in preclinical studies, helping to reduce oxidative stress in the brain—a key contributor to cognitive decline and fatigue. Its adaptogenic properties suggest potential as a natural support for stress resilience—making it especially valuable for promoting relaxation and improved sleep quality without grogginess.
Ceremonial-Grade Cacao
Cacao is naturally rich in magnesium, which helps regulate the parasympathetic nervous system and supports muscle and nerve relaxation. It also contains tryptophan (a precursor to melatonin and serotonin) and flavonoids that may improve blood flow, reduce tension, and interact with GABA pathways—supporting sleep latency and efficiency.
This combination targets multiple dimensions of rest—not just falling asleep faster, but improving how deeply and restoratively you sleep. Together, these compounds may help support quality sleep architecture, especially when used consistently as part of an evening wind-down.
Ingredient Breakdown: MOGU vs. Huberman Stack
Andrew Huberman’s sleep cocktail typically includes four core ingredients: magnesium glycinate, L-theanine, glycine, and apigenin. While these are often consumed as isolated supplements, MOGU’s Cacao Blend offers a comparable functional profile—delivered through whole, synergistic ingredients.
Here’s how MOGU’s formulation mirrors the intent of Huberman’s stack:
Magnesium (Glycinate)
- MOGU equivalent: Naturally occurring magnesium in ceremonial-grade cacao
- Benefit: Promotes muscle relaxation, nervous system ease, and parasympathetic support—while being naturally gentle on digestion compared to synthetic magnesium supplements.
L-Theanine
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MOGU equivalent: While not a direct source of L-theanine, Reishi and cacao may exert similar calming effects via different mechanisms.
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Benefit: Promotes alpha brainwave activity for calm focus and relaxation
Glycine
- MOGU equivalent: Indirectly supported by Poria (gut-soothing) and Tremella (cellular hydration)
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Benefit:
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Poria may modulate GABAergic activity and calm the central nervous system, reducing nocturnal waking and enhancing sleep continuity.
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Tremella Supports brain health, overnight hydration and cellular recovery, contributing to improved sleep quality and reduced sleep fragmentation.
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Apigenin (from chamomile)
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MOGU equivalent: Reishi triterpenes
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Benefit: Adaptogenic regulation of the HPA axis, supporting cortisol balance and a smoother wind-down
Rather than isolate ingredients into capsules, MOGU integrates them into a cohesive, whole-food ritual—helping to ease the mind and body into sleep in a way that’s both functional and deeply enjoyable.
Why Cacao Is the Unsung Sleep Hero
Cacao is often seen as a treat—but it also happens to be a quietly powerful sleep supporter. Unlike stimulants or sedatives, it works gently with your body’s natural systems to promote rest and recovery.
Here’s why cacao deserves a place in your nighttime toolkit:
Magnesium – Helps regulate the parasympathetic nervous system and muscle relaxation. Cacao is one of the highest natural food sources of magnesium.
Tryptophan – An amino acid that supports serotonin and melatonin production, key to mood balance and healthy sleep cycles.
Flavonoids – Antioxidants that may interact with GABA receptors and promote vascular relaxation, easing physical tension before bed.
Theobromine (in moderate levels) – Widens blood vessels, which may contribute to a feeling of physical ease and improved circulation—supportive of a wind-down state.
When paired with adaptogenic mushrooms, cacao becomes more than just a cozy evening drink—it’s a natural, multi-layered support system for transitioning into rest.
MOGU’s Approach to Sleep: Gentle, Full-System Support
Rather than relying on high doses or isolated compounds, MOGU’s Cacao Blend is designed to work with your body’s rhythm—supporting rest through whole-food synergy, not suppression.
Key ingredients in the blend and their functions:
Reishi – A calming adaptogen long used to support immune modulation and emotional regulation, helping the nervous system downshift.
Poria – Known for its gut-calming properties, Poria may help regulate the gut-brain axis and support smoother sleep transitions.
Tremella – Hydrates from the inside out and supports overnight cellular repair and resilience, especially during deep sleep phases. Helps support brain health and mitigate oxidative stress in the brain.
Together with ceremonial-grade cacao, this blend helps you wind down gradually—supporting a natural transition to rest, not forcing it.
Sleep support should feel like an exhale, not a shutdown. MOGU is built around that belief. Visit our guide on Mushroom Cacao to explore how it supports relaxation, restorative sleep, cognitive function, muscle recovery, and the science behind its calming, restorative effects on body and mind.
Final Thoughts: Is MOGU a Huberman-Compatible Sleep Solution?
If you follow Huberman’s sleep advice but want to explore alternatives to isolated compounds or prefer your routine to be more experiential, MOGU’s Cacao Blend offers a compelling evolution of the sleep cocktail concept.
It’s a practical, enjoyable way to support better sleep. Thoughtfully formulated to work with your rhythm, it offers a gentle upgrade for winding down with more ease and consistency.
About MOGU
At MOGU, we believe nature’s intelligence doesn’t need to be reinvented—just reconnected with. We explore the intersection of mushrooms, function, and modern living through thoughtful design, the latest science, and a deep respect for nature.
What you take in shapes how you think, feel, and move through the world. We’re here to build a deeper connection between the everyday and the elemental—starting with mushrooms.
This is just the beginning.
The studies referenced in this article relate to the individual ingredients discussed and are provided for informational purposes only. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary. Always consult a healthcare professional before introducing any new supplement into your routine.
