The world today hardly gives us an opportunity to escape stressful situations or feelings of anxiety. We are all bound by our duties and responsibilities which could sometimes become overwhelming for both the mind and body. We feel stressed when we try to handle too many things at the same time, like work pressure, relationship issues, problems with kids or parents, financial matters etc. Anxiety on the contrary is a state of mind which signals an impending doom; it is a sense of disaster that consumes us even though there is no immediate casualty in our lives.
Chronic stress and anxiety could have serious repercussions on our health. Prescription medicines usually recommended by doctors have severe side effects which do more harm than good. Herbal remedies and supplements are made of natural ingredients and are thoroughly tested in laboratories for any side effects. Therefore, they are not only effective but also safe. This article gives you a comprehensive idea about the different herbal remedies and how they can mollify the symptoms arising due to anxiety and stress.
Herbal Remedies For Anxiety And Stress
Chamomile
Chamomile is a common ragweed flower with sensational qualities. It is consumed after brewing in the form of tea. Today it is considered to be one of the safest herbs for curing anxiety and stress related issues. This herb has a calming effect in our mind and body as it soothes nervous tension. Consumption of chamomile increases the metabolism of the body which acts as an advantage as it helps to cure physical side effects of long term anxiety like indigestion, nervous stomach and restlessness. This herb acts as a natural tranquilizer too because it reduces sleep difficulties which is very common when you are anxious or stressed.
Kava Kava
The kava root is especially effective for curing both moderate and severe anxiety issues. Extensive research has proved that Kava has positive effects on stress, depression, anxiety and insomnia. It helps to alleviate anxiety related symptoms like restlessness or dizziness. Apart from this the kava root is also an excellent muscle relaxer, analgesic and tranquilizer. This herb can be consumed in the form of tablets, in liquid form or it can even be chewed raw. However, long term consumption of this herb could have adverse effects on the liver.
St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort when consumed acts as a sedative as it helps to counter problems connected to anxiety and stress like depression. The pituitary gland is particularly benefitted by this herb as the secretion of six different hormones get regulated which in turn stabilize homeostasis. St. John’s wort works by disintegrating excessive stress hormones called norepinephrine which enters into the blood stream during extremely stressful situations. The extracts of this herb can be consumed in the form of capsules, tablets or tinctures.
Skullcap
Skullcap is a tonic and is highly recommended for relaxation purposes mainly due to its sedative and anti inflammatory properties. This herb is very nourishing for the nervous system which is very important because strong nerves help to calm and sooth the brain and body when you are anxious or stressed out. Skullcap also relaxes people suffering from muscle spasms, rapid heartbeat, exhaustion, hysteria and even mental disorders like depression. Skullcap’s anti inflammatory and anti spasmodic properties reduces indigestion and strengthens liver functions which prove to be beneficial for an anxious mind and body.
Valerian
Valerian is mainly used as a sedative as its ingredients are almost similar to the sedatives prescribed by doctors. It is primarily used as a sleeping aid because anxiety and stressful situations often cause serious sleep disorders. Research has proved that valerian roots can calm hyperactive nerves during anxiety and can significantly control the fight-or-flight response to stress. If you are brewing your own valerian tea make sure that you add some other ingredients like honey to enhance the taste. Despite its repulsive odor valerian roots are widely used all over the world.
Lavender
Lavender is highly recommended for reducing stress related problems. The beautiful fragrance of lavender acts as a balm over the mind and body thus reducing irritability, anxiety, stress and tension. It is often used to minimize the effects of hormonal imbalance during stress. Lavender enhances sleep thus significantly promoting muscle relaxation which tends to tighten when you are stressed. An instant remedy for anxiety is to crush a few fresh lavender leaves between your fingers and apply the aromatic oil over the forehead.
Passion Flower
Passion flower has a direct influence over the central nervous system. The severe mood fluctuations that you experience when you are stressed or anxious, simply disappears when passion flower is consumed. This herb helps to reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety thus leading to upliftment of mood, a goodnight’s sleep and a calm and active thought process.
Motherwort
Motherwort is highly preferred by pregnant women to relieve pregnancy related stress and tension. This herb works positively on the circulatory system, respiratory and the nervous system of our body. Consuming this herb gives you a feeling of overall wellness because your blood pressure, heart palpitation and pulse rate remains normalized which is generally not the case when the body and mind becomes a victim of anxiety or stress.
Lemon Balm
The aroma of lemon balm alleviates the mind from the debilitating symptoms of anxiety, like mood swings, headache, nervous tension, digestive spasms, rapid palpitation and many others. Depression and constant feelings of sadness can be dispelled by consuming lemon balm. This herb can be consumed either in the form of tea or as a tincture.
Licorice Root
Licorice root works as a tonic for respiratory and immune systems. It regulates the blood sugar levels and the adrenal glands which prepares your body to combat stressful situations. Licorice roots is said to boost energy and has a calming effect on your mind and body.
There is nothing new about stress or anxiety; they are in fact a byproduct of our demanding lifestyle. I hope the herbal remedies mentioned in this article will help you in your endeavors. However, a word of advice would be to consult your physical practitioner before using them.