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.

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 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 one important stress-reliever which can be a negative if pursued too aggressively. While gentle activities like walking and swimming can relieve tension, extreme effort can trigger destructive hormonal responses. Also, many people are too busy or tired to maintain a healthful program of physical exertion. Again, an herbal supplement can be the answer.

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.




About the Author:



0 comments:

Post a Comment