How I Created a Clean-Ingredient Wellness Candy From My Panic Disorder

As someone who’s faced waves of anxiety, panic and restless nights, I used to keep warheads in my car in case of a panic attack. Everyone is different, but medications simply didn't work for me. I tried a ton of different tools and hacks to distract my brain from my panic attacks, and I wanted more than a quick sugar fix. I wanted a pocket-sized tool that felt intentional. This led me on my journey to create a clean-ingredient sour candy, designed not as a medical treatment, but as a sensory support for moments when I needed to distract my brain and reset. Here’s how In Its Tracks came to life!

My Story & Inspiration

From the end of 2020 to around the middle of 2023, my panic attacks were at their worst. I couldn't drive without my heart racing and convincing myself that I was going to pass out at the wheel. I couldn't go to a party without having to stand outside attempt to lower my heart rate. I tried everything from breathing exercises to herbal teas. While helpful, these solutions weren’t always at hand. Exposure therapy along with sensory support is what truly helped me. I craved something:

• Portable: easy to carry

• Engaging: a sensory prompt to interrupt tension

• Clean: made with ingredients I recognized

The idea struck during a panic attack I had while I was driving: why not combine the bolt of sour candy that wasn't a gummy (chewing would make my panic attacks worse), along with natural adaptogens known for anxiety support?

Ingredient Selection Process

I researched dozens of ingredients, aiming for plant-based components that offered subtle support without overstating benefits. I had both myself, and my friends try different combinations to see what worked for us:

• L-Theanine (from green tea): traditionally linked to focus and calm feeling. I used to take pills of this during college, and it helped me a lot. 

• Holy Basil: prized in herbal traditions for balanced energy. This was another herb that really worked for me. I didn't see this in a lot of supplement brands either.

• Vitamin D (from mushroom extract): supports overall mood regulation.

• Clean Sweeteners: organic cane sugar and organic rice syrup for the base.

• Natural Flavors & Colors: fruit-derived extracts.

Each ingredient was chosen for quality, sourcing only non-GMO, vegan-friendly suppliers.

From Concept to Candy

1. Prototype Phase

   • Partnered with a food scientist to create different versions of the candy to test textures and sour levels.

   • Adjusted recipes to balance tartness with the adaptogens.

2. Flavor Testing

   • Conducted blind taste trials with friends who requested clarity and clean taste.

   • Gathered feedback on sour intensity and after-taste smoothness.

3. Packaging & Sustainability

   • Designed pouches myself with little graphic design experience, just to get the product out there (packaging will be changing for large scale production).

   • Added clear labeling of ingredients and suggested use.

4. Compliance Check

   • Reviewed language to avoid unverified claims.

   • Focused on “supports calm moments” rather than medical promises.

Tips for Starting Your Own Wellness Project

If you’re inspired to build your own business based on something you wish existed, here are a few takeaways:

• Start with Your Story: Your personal journey fuels authenticity.

• Research Thoroughly: Check suppliers, confirm ingredient safety. Make sure your product is original.

• Prototype Quickly: Early samples help you refine based on real feedback.

• Continue to Build: There are many obstacles you will come across. Just keep moving forward.

Conclusion & Invitation

Creating In Its Tracks taught me that wellness tools can be extremely helpful to get you through moments where anxiety is high. If you’re curious how my sour candy can ground you in a busy day, explore more at our homepage.

— Allison Zaluski, Founder & CEO, Re-Route Wellness