Natural Remedies for Stress
Stress is an unavoidable part of life, and can range from mild to chronic. Some examples of physical stress are physical illness, lack of sufficient sleep, overwork, inadeuqate nutrition, and over-exertion during work or play. Psychological stress generally involves life changes, such as moving house, changing jobs, end a relationship, or losing a loved one. It can also be from worry over finances, work pressures, or special events like holiday or weddings. We're all affected daily by less obvious kinds of stress as well, such as pollution, crowds, traffic, and a host of other unpredictable things. We all react to stress differently. Some people are able to take things in stride better than others. Everyone has a different physical constitution as well, which determines the way their system responds to stressors. Typical Symptoms of Stress Include: Fatigue. Appetite changes. Irritablity. Memory problems. Shallow breathing. High blood pressure. Panic attacks. Digestive problems. Skin rashes. Although stress is viewed as a psychological problem, the physical effects can be quite serious. Long-term stress accelerates aging and compromises the immune system, leaving us vulnerable to disease and infection. It is estimated that stress contributes to at least 80% of all major illnesses. Stress-related conditions include metabolic and endocrine disorders, skin conditions, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and certain auto-immune disorders. Physically, the body responds to stress by elevating blood pressure, increased heart rate, muscle tension and a slowing of digestion. There is also an increase in stress hormone production, which inhibits white blood cell production and supresses the immune response. In addition, the digestive system doesn't function properly when the body is flooded with stress hormones, and it's more difficult to absorb nutrients. This can lead to further problems which stem from nutritional deficiencies.Stress promotes free-radicals in the body, which become oxidized and can cause cellular damage. Prolonged periods of stress can lead to Adrenal Fatigue To get stress under control its crucial to have properly functioning adrenal glands. Useful Supplements for Stress GABA L-Glutathione A good Vitamin B Complex Vitamin C with Bioflavanoids Calcium and Magnesium CoQ10 - short for Coenzyme Q10, increases energy and protects the heart and immune system. L-Tyrosine Maitake Professional Formulas Native Remedies makes a very effective anti-stress formula that many people find very helpful. Get More Information on PureCalm. Adrenal Stress Formula Useful Herbs for Stress Ashwaganda has been used traditionally as a sedative and nerve tonic. Ginkgo increases circulation to the brain, keeping tissues oxygenated. Milk Thistle has antioxidant properties, and also supports healthy liver function, which is useful in ridding the body of excess stress hormones, and for healthy adrenals. Valerian is useful as a sedative when stress disrupts sleep. Oatsraw is very nourishing for the nervous system. Daily infusions can provide much needed minerals and other crucial nutrients for strong nerves. Motherwort, known among herbalists as "mother's little helper", is an excellent ally for all forms of stress, tension and frayed nerves.. It also has an affinity for the heart, helping support healthy heart function and rhythms. Eleuthero is a well-known adaptogen that helps the body adapt to stress. It supports proper adenal function and even supports the immune system. Schisandra is another adaptogen that also assists in healthy liver function and supports the central nervous system. Kava has been used for hundreds of years to promote relaxation of body and mind. (May impair ability to drive if taken in hig doses.) Passionflower is very calming, and is a popular addition to many anti-stress formulas. St. John's Wort is useful for stress that leads to depression or nerve pain. Skullcap is an important anti-stress herb because it helps with all sorts of nervous disorders, aids sleep, relieves headaches, and supports healthy blood pressure levels. Lemon Balm is useful for nervoust tension that involves gastrointestinal upsets, and.or sleep disorders. Chamomile, and Catnip are gently relaxing tonics that are useful when stress is accompanied by digestive upsets. Both are good choices for children. Homeopathy for Stress Arsenicum is indicated for a person under stress who feels restless and nervous and in need of constant contact. Gelsemium for person who is trmbling with panic and anxiety. Muscles feel weak, and person has obstinate disposition. Phosphorous for people who are sensitive and a bit nervous by nature, and who react to stressful situations with fear. Aromatherapy for Stress The following oils are useful in dealing with stress: What Else You Can Do ~ Get adequate exercise to help control stress levels, expel excess stress hormones and clear the mind. ~ Go easy on the caffeine, which can cause nervous tension and disrupt sleep. ~ Don't over-indulge in alcohol, which can lead to depression lower the body's ability to cope effectively with stress. ~ Eat a diet rich in minerals to ensure the nervous system is properly nourished. ~ Identify areas of chronic stress in your life and take steps to change them. ~ Learn an effective relaxation technique. This is absolutely crucial for long term stress management. Everyone is different, and you will need to experiment a bit to find what works best for you. ~ Take up meditation. It has been shown that regular meditation helps control thoughts, and leads to an increased ability to deal with stress in daily life. ~ Practice breathing deeper - especially when in stressful situations. Try inhaling deeply down the front of the body, and exhaling slowly up the back of the spine. ~ Massage and reflexology are both very relaxing, and can help us deal with stress better. ~ Bach Flower Remedies may be useful. Rescue Remedy
Articles About Stress Reduction Body & Soul: Melt Stress Away with an Herbal Massage
The information on this web site is intended for educational purposes only, and not as any form of medical advice. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider.
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