All of us have stress in our lives. We work both at and away from home, juggle the demands of family and friends, worry about making ends meet, and watch the news. Even young children are faced with strain in this modern world. Doctors advise that a constant state of tension is not healthy, but what can we do? A perfect diet based on wholesome whole foods is recommended, but this may be so hard to achieve that it might as well be impossible. Fortunately, we can all benefit from taking an all natural herbal supplement for stress.
What traditionally have been called herbs are simply plants rich in vitamins and minerals. Some, like dandelions, are mainly nutritive, while others are used for their therapeutic effect. Stress is known to deplete our bodies of minerals and vitamins, which herbal teas or pills replenish. In addition, many herbs contain other substances which promote mental calm and physical relaxation.
When we are stressed or under mental or physical strain, our adrenal glands produce 'fight or flight' hormones. This natural response is helpful in emergencies, heightening alertness and controlling pain, but when it is triggered too often, the glands themselves may become exhausted. This can be a serious disorder, causing various symptoms and contributing to many illnesses.
The same nutrients which protect these vital glands are systematically depleted by stressful living. Many important antioxidants, including vitamins C, E, A, and D, can be lost, while the B vitamins so necessary for health and well-being may become deficient. Minerals are also vital for health and are already in short supply for many in developed societies. Magnesium, zinc, and selenium are some which should be supplemented.
Herbal extracts and formulas can give us what our diets may lack. Some formulas may be fortified with additional nutrients known to be needed in stressful living. Familiar anti-stress herbs are chamomile and holy basil. There are also ashwagandha (which gives us stamina and promotes deeper sleep), rhodiola, lemon balm, and passion flower.
Stress-related illnesses are becoming an epidemic that affects people of all ages. The over-production of adrenal hormones contributes to high blood pressure, insomnia, digestive upsets, blood sugar instability, a worsening of PMS and menopausal symptoms, and depression. Being overly anxious can heighten cravings for food or drugs and make it hard to maintain a healthy weight.
Exercise has a natural stress-reducing effect. However, some people may take even this to an extreme and create more demands on the adrenals. Gentle exertion, like walking or swimming, is best. For those who are too busy, too tired, or just disinclined to get regular physical activity, soothing herbs may be very valuable.
Consumers should be informed about herbs and the companies which sell them. Single herbal products can be helpful, as can formulas which offer a combination of herbs in one pill or tea. A reliable manufacturer will offer products backed by research and produced in accordance with good manufacturing practices. It is also important to take supplements as directed, for best results and safety. Too little may not help and too much might be dangerous.
What traditionally have been called herbs are simply plants rich in vitamins and minerals. Some, like dandelions, are mainly nutritive, while others are used for their therapeutic effect. Stress is known to deplete our bodies of minerals and vitamins, which herbal teas or pills replenish. In addition, many herbs contain other substances which promote mental calm and physical relaxation.
When we are stressed or under mental or physical strain, our adrenal glands produce 'fight or flight' hormones. This natural response is helpful in emergencies, heightening alertness and controlling pain, but when it is triggered too often, the glands themselves may become exhausted. This can be a serious disorder, causing various symptoms and contributing to many illnesses.
The same nutrients which protect these vital glands are systematically depleted by stressful living. Many important antioxidants, including vitamins C, E, A, and D, can be lost, while the B vitamins so necessary for health and well-being may become deficient. Minerals are also vital for health and are already in short supply for many in developed societies. Magnesium, zinc, and selenium are some which should be supplemented.
Herbal extracts and formulas can give us what our diets may lack. Some formulas may be fortified with additional nutrients known to be needed in stressful living. Familiar anti-stress herbs are chamomile and holy basil. There are also ashwagandha (which gives us stamina and promotes deeper sleep), rhodiola, lemon balm, and passion flower.
Stress-related illnesses are becoming an epidemic that affects people of all ages. The over-production of adrenal hormones contributes to high blood pressure, insomnia, digestive upsets, blood sugar instability, a worsening of PMS and menopausal symptoms, and depression. Being overly anxious can heighten cravings for food or drugs and make it hard to maintain a healthy weight.
Exercise has a natural stress-reducing effect. However, some people may take even this to an extreme and create more demands on the adrenals. Gentle exertion, like walking or swimming, is best. For those who are too busy, too tired, or just disinclined to get regular physical activity, soothing herbs may be very valuable.
Consumers should be informed about herbs and the companies which sell them. Single herbal products can be helpful, as can formulas which offer a combination of herbs in one pill or tea. A reliable manufacturer will offer products backed by research and produced in accordance with good manufacturing practices. It is also important to take supplements as directed, for best results and safety. Too little may not help and too much might be dangerous.
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