Take An All Natural Herbal Supplement For Stress Relief

By Nancy Gardner


Stressful living is an inescapable feature of modern life. Working, commuting, juggling the demands of family and work, and balancing the budget take their toll on adults, while youngsters face their own mental, emotional, and physical strain. Doctors tell us that this constant state of tension is bad for us, and nutritionists recommend a good diet as a first-line defense. Taking an all natural herbal supplement for stress can also help.

Herbs are what we call the group of plants known to be rich in vitamins and minerals. Some are mainly used for their nutritional content - like dandelions and nettles - while others have demonstrable therapeutic effects. Stress uses up the stores of vitamins and minerals our bodies need to perform all the growth, repair, and renewal that makes for good health. Herbal teas and pills can provide what our bodies need to cope with daily living and an overload of care.

Stressful situations which cause us to worry or to become anxious or fearful are common to almost all. Mental and emotional tensions cause the adrenal glands to produce adrenaline, the 'fight or flight' hormone. This is a natural response, but when it happens too frequently, these important glands may become exhausted, which is a serious disorder. Too much of the hormone is a problem, but too little leaves the body without its natural defenses.

Nutrients which are depleted by stress are the very same ones which strengthen the adrenal glands, as well as performing important functions throughout the body. Vitamins C, E, D, and all the B vitamins should be supplemented. Minerals are also used up; zinc, magnesium, and selenium are some of the ones that stress-fighting formulas routinely contain. Unfortunately, even the most careful diet plan is often deficient in many important minerals.

Herbal formulas may contain added vitamins and minerals, or they may be purely plant extracts. There are herbs that are specific for tension relief. Holy basil is one that has been used to calm people for centuries. Ashwagandha helps people have more stamina throughout the day and also promotes deep, restful sleep. Rhodiola, passion flower, chamomile, and lemon balm are others that soothe and relax.

Stress-related disorders include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Insomnia and depression affect millions of people and often can be directly traced to stressful living conditions. Digestive upsets, severe PMS and menopausal symptoms, and weight gain are other side effects. Food and other cravings are known to be triggered by stress; these can reflect the nutritional imbalances which stress can cause.

Exercise is a natural stress-reliever, as is deep breathing (which exercise promotes.) However, extreme exercise can cause strain rather than relieve it. Walking and other gentle types of aerobic exercise are best. However, many people are too busy or too tired by life's demands to get the exercise they need. For this reason, taking relaxing herbs has become very popular.

Many reputable herbal companies offer safe and effective supplements. A little research will let consumers know which manufacturers or distributors offer products backed by knowledge and research. Since herbs should be taken with due caution, it is best to know the track record of any company you buy from. It is important to take the formulas as directed, since too little may not achieve results and too much could be harmful. However, herbs have been used for centuries, and modern research validates their efficacy and safety when used as directed.




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