Whether you’re a working mum, single parent, or CEO, life can be very stressful at times. Stressful moments are accompanied by anxiety and panic that only make matters worse. According to results from the Mental Health Foundation’s study conducted in 2018, 74% of people have experienced overwhelming stress, which they couldn’t cope with.
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Anxiety and stress can have severe behavioral and psychological effects if not dealt with properly. Though some people resort to pharmaceutical drugs, exercise, and yoga to find relief, other natural remedies are equally effective.
For some, these remedies are fresh herbs that do not come with the side effects of pills. Whether you regularly deal with anxiety attacks or just looking for a respite from causal nervousness, you can experience profound calmness and relaxation if you know the right herbs to use.
Below are seven of the top natural herbs known to fight anxiety and stress.
1. Cannabis
The psychoactive effects of cannabis have been well-documented. However, if you know the right strain to use, cannabis can be a potent remedy for anxiety and stress. According to a recent study conducted by Washington State University, cannabis use can positively affect anxiety symptoms.
However, you’ll have to choose between Indica or Sativa, depending on your condition. You can make the right choice by understanding the primary difference between these two types of cannabis. It is the CBD to THC ratio that separates Indica from Sativa. According to the same study results, low THC/high CBD cannabis is ideal for tackling depression, whereas high THC/high CBD cannabis effectively fights stress symptoms. A lot of masses prefer to use gas mask bong for smoking and consuming cannabis, weed etc.
2. Lavender
Lavender is an aromatic herb known for centuries for its therapeutic benefits. It influences the mood and remedies the symptoms of anxiety such as nervousness. The herb is typically used for aromatherapy as an essential oil.
Evidence supports the fact that using lavender oil for massage isn’t only effective for relieving anxiety and lifts the mood and improves sleep quality when inhaled. You add about two drops of the oil to a few cups of boiling water and take deep breaths of the vapor. It’s equally useful when you mix one to four drops of it with olive or almond oil for massage.
3. Chamomille
The ancient Greeks and Romans have used Chamomile as a natural remedy mainly for its soothing effects. In recent years, research results have supported this herb’s therapeutic use and shown that it’s useful for individuals dealing with anxiety and depression, especially postnatal women.
The chamomile herb is rich in phenolics like quinones, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and antioxidant compounds. Apart from anxiety, a cup of chamomile tea can also help overcome stress-related appetite loss and headaches. It’s easy to prepare, and you’ll need to add two teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers to a cup of hot water.
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4. Tulsi
If you’re dealing with stress-related inflammation and other symptoms like increased oxidative stress, the Tulsi herb might be helpful. It can improve your body’s antioxidants and increase their activity to enable them to counteract the negative effects of free radicals in your body.
In Ayurveda, it’s recommended to regularly use Tulsi enhances the body’s ability to adapt to physical and psychological stress and combat the development of diseases caused by stress. To prepare Tulsi tea, mix ¼ cup of tulsi leaves and 1/2 cup of water and heat for 10 minutes. Strain and serve after adding some lemon juice.
5. Brahmi
Brahmi is yet another potent anti-anxiety herb. It is capable of increasing serotonin levels. Hence, it helps to induce relaxation in the brain and the entire body. The herb is also unique because it promotes cognitive function, which can help cope with stressful situations.
If you’re looking for a peaceful mind, Brahmi can calm any restlessness and soothe you. You can also use it as a mild sedative. However, it won’t dull the mind. Instead, you’ll experience sharpened focus and increased mental clarity. It is commonly prepared by heating a mixture of Brahmi powder and milk or water.
6. Ashwagandha
The Ashwagandha herb is well known for its potent rejuvenating properties. In Ayurvedic medicine, it has been used for over 200 years to prepare medications for different conditions. According to a report published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, this herb effectively reduces cortisol levels in the body.
Given that cortisol is the body’s primary stress hormone, taking Ashwagandha can prove very helpful against stress and stress-related complications. Hence, regularly drinking Ashwagandha tea can help the body cope with daily stress, anxiety symptoms, poor sleep, and depression.
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7. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a herb belonging to the mint family and possesses a mild lemon flavor. It is famous for its mood-boosting and relaxing properties. It also has soothing effects and is known to help fight anxiety when taken as a tea. Overall, this herb is also excellent for treating indigestion, insomnia, and other health conditions.
Conclusion
It’s necessary to note that the FDA doesn’t monitor natural herbs as it does pharmaceutical medications. Regardless of 2010’s quality control regulations, the quality of some natural supplements like herbs may still be questionable. So, nature may not always be safe.
Therefore, you’ll need to first talk to your doctor, especially if you’re on any medications. The interaction between some natural herbs and medications may lead to severe side effects in some cases. Also, some herbal supplements that deal with stress and anxiety can make you feel sleepy or dizzy. Hence, remember not to drive or perform any dangerous tasks when taking them.
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