Is life stressing you out? The little things that don’t normally bother you, seem bigger than life? Stress does more than keep you up at night. It affects your entire body, and your systems work less efficiently and become fatigued. These stressors become a downward spiral towards poor health. There is a group of herbs called adaptogens which assist us in dealing with the stressors in our daily lives. An adaptogen defines herbs that help protect the body against physical, mental, and emotional stress by strengthening the immune system. An herb must be completely safe and non-toxic and it must have broad uses for health. It must specifically reduce stress, both mental and physical.
Adaptogenic Herbs For Stress
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a powerful antioxidant and anti-stresser. It helps regulate your body’s stress hormone cortisol, which makes you feel calmer and potentially soothe adrenal fatigue. This herb helps your body adapt to stress, by balancing your immune system, metabolism and hormonal systems.
Ashwagandha root is calming and anti-inflammatory. It improves sleep, reduces anxiety, improves memory, reduces inflammation and oxidative stress.
Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) helps to reduce anxiety and depression. This herb fights fatigue, stress and also improves memory and concentration. Rhodiola promotes a calm emotional state and supports strong mental performance, optimal immune function and hormonal balance.
Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) decreases the amount of cortisol released during stress without the adverse side-effects of prescription medications. This herb taken as a tea calms the mind and spirit and promotes longevity. Holy basil increases physical and emotional endurance by increasing the resilience to all stressors.
Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) also known as Siberian ginseng increases mental alertness and performance, enhances concentration, reduces stress and fatigue and enhances overall immunity. This root increases the body’s resistance to stress, making it beneficial during times of increased physical and mental stress. Ginseng root also increases vitality, improves mental and physical performance and increases blood flow to the brain.
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceous) curbs stress levels and promotes peace and calm in your mind and body. Those who suffer mood swings and constant nervous tension also benefit from this herb.
Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) reduces stress levels by increasing the feel-good neurotransmitters. This herb reduces anxiety and increases calmness resulting in better concentration, memory, and cognition.
Adaptogens improve your body’s ability to adapt and respond to stress, increase energy and attention, and fight off fatigue. These herbs play an important part in your overall health. Many of these herbs are taken as teas which you can sweeten with honey, maple syrup or other organic sweetner of your choice.
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