Thursday, August 20, 2015

Benefits Of An All Natural Herbal Supplement For Stress

By Nancy Gardner


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.

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.

Formulas designed to help overcome the effects of fear, anxiety, or worry may be purely plant extracts or they may contain added vitamins and minerals. Herbs that are known to promote relaxation include chamomile and holy basil. Others are ashwagandha, rhodiola, passion flower, and lemon balm.

The epidemic of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and heart problems can be attributed in part to too much anxiety. This can also cause digestive upsets, ulcers, and depression. Cravings for food or addictive substances are heightened, and weight control goes out the window. PMS and menopausal symptoms may worsen.

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.

Choose a reliable herbal company, with a good track record of safety, which offers products backed by research. Most herbs have been used for centuries by one culture or another, and recent studies validate their safety and efficacy. Consumers should study the options in the natural pharmacopoeia and find what works best for them.




About the Author:



0 Comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to Post Comments [Atom]

<< Home