Thursday, February 12, 2015


                          Herbs for Reduce stress

Introduction
Stress can directly manifest in damaging effects on the body, and indirectly augment health problems. Additionally, there are many harmful physiological changes due to chronic stress.Instead of reaching for a tub of ice cream, knowing what healthy options are available, we can utilize the calming properties of herbal supplements and teas and healthful foods.


Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress, which is practically unavoidable in today’s modern world. Acute stress and anxiety are normal and may even be helpful at times; however, chronic stress and anxiety can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to help combat stress and anxiety. Keep in mind that herbs may interact with other herbs, supplements and medications, so consult your doctor before taking a herbal remedy for stress and anxiety.

Important Nutrients for Stress-Reduction
  • Vitamin C: Consuming foods high in vitamin C, such as oranges and other citrus fruits, can reduce stress and boost the immune system. Intake of this vitamin can help lower the levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, and blood pressure during high-anxiety situations.
  • Complex Carbohydrates: Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, can induce the brain to increase serotonin production and stabilizing blood pressure as a way to reduce stress.
  • Magnesium: Obtaininganadequate amount of magnesium is essential for avoiding headaches and fatigue. Oral magnesium can also successfully relieve premenstrual mood changes. Additionally, increased magnesium intake has been found to improve sleep quality in older adults. Healthy sources of magnesium include spinach or other leafy greens, salmon, and soybeans.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Fatty fish (such as salmon and tuna) and nuts and seeds (such as flaxseeds, pistachios, walnuts, and almonds) are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce surges of stress hormones and also confer protection against heart disease, depression, and premenstrual syndrome.
 Here are four herbs that have been proven effective at reducing stress and anxiety:

1. Licorice Root contains a natural hormone alternative to cortisone, which can help the body handle stressful situations, and can help to normalize blood sugar levels as well as your adrenal glands, providing you with the energy necessary to deal with the stressful situation at hand. Some claim stimulates cranial and cerebrospinal fluid, thereby calming the mind. As a soothing tonic, drink it warm as in a tea.
2. Passion flower is considered a mild sedative and can help promote sleep. Passion flower also treats anxiety, insomnia, depression and nervousness.
The parts of the passion flower plant that grow above the ground can be dried and steeped for tea. Otherwise, passion flower is available as a tincture, capsule and even as a juice.
3. Kava Kava, an herb from the South Pacific, is a powerful muscle relaxer and analgesic. Kava Kava is also effective at treating depression and anxiety associated with menopause.
Kava Kava is very easily found as a capsule in the supplement section of any grocery store.

5. Lavender is the workhorse of herbs. It is effective at reducing irritability and anxiety, promoting relaxation, a sense of calm and sleep. It is also a powerful anti-bacterial agent, and can work to balance hormones and stimulate the immune system.


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