Since most of us have very hectic and demanding daily schedules, stress and anxiety are sometimes unavoidable--it’s actually very common to feel mildly stressed and anxious on a regular basis, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn't do anything about it. It is important for both your physical and mental health to keep your stress levels under control or stress-related health problems like heart problems, asthma and depression may show their ugly head.
Thankfully, there are some natural alternatives to minimize your daily stress and we suggest that you give these herbs a try:
Valerian Root. Valerian root, which is a native herb in parts of Europe and Asia is well-renowned for its calming and stress-decrease properties ever since ancient times. The herb specifically contains alkaloids, valeric and GABA, which is a neurotransmitter that gives the plant, along with a few other substances, its sedative properties. If your stress problems have caused you insomnia, body pains, and abnormal heart rates, valerian root can ease these symptoms as well. You can take in tea, tincture or powder supplement form.
Cassia Seed. In Teatox Australia, we are proud of featuring this wonderful herb in our tea mixes as it literally has multiple health benefits and stress control is one of them. Besides aiding digestion and detoxing, cassia seed has been used for centuries by Asian cultures as a laxative and antidepressant agent among other uses. Regular consumption of cassia seed can lift your spirits and promote a better mood so make sure you take a cup of cassia seed tea daily to obtain its stress-reducing benefits.
Ashwagandha. Ashwagandha is an Indian Native herb that has been used in ayurvedic medicine for a wide range of health ailments and has been proven in late studies to fight stress as well. In a 2012 study, ashwagandha was given to 300 patients for 2 months and the results showed that patient’s levels dropped by 44% by the end of this trial period. If you are feeling stressed, anxious and drained, taking ashwagandha in tea, capsule or tincture form may help.
Lemon Balm. A herb belonging in the mint family that has been shown to have mild calming and anxiety-reducing effects due to the good amounts of GABA it contains. This and its pleasant citrusy aroma and flavor make it an excellent supplement to other calming tea blends that contain chamomile, lavender, ginger, and valerian root.
Turmeric. There are many reasons why turmeric is considered a premium superfood spice. Turmeric root contains curcumin which is a special antioxidant substance that protects and regenerates cells from the damaging effects of stress. A study has found that the consumption 500mg of turmeric on a daily basis along with Fenugreek can significantly decrease stress, anxiety, mild depression, and fatigue. If you don't consume any turmeric yet, try to add more turmeric to your food and drinks or take it in a supplement form if you wish to give your mood and energy levels a natural boost.