Herbs have been used in native and folk medicine for centuries to treat a variety of health-related issues. Stress is not a new problem, but certain stress-related conditions such as insomnia, anxiety and depression are more prevalent in industrialized societies. Along with proper medical care, certain herbs and supplements may help combat the effects of stress.
Valerian
Valerian is a tall flowering herb that is native to Europe and North America. It has been used by herbalists for centuries for its calming effects to treat anxiety, nervousness and pain. The Clayton College of Natural Health herb guide notes that studies of valerian show it has sedative, tranquilizing, anti-aggressive as well as anti-convulsive and hypotensive properties.
Today it is used to treat hyperactivity in children and insomnia, but does not appear to have the typical side effects of other tranquilizing drugs. However, it is a potent herb that should not be combined with alcohol or other sedatives. It is useful for stress-related issues such as sleep disorders, high blood pressure and fibromyalgia. Valerian can be found in capsules, extracts or herbal teas.
St. John's Wort
St. John's Wort is a flowering herb that grows throughout Europe, Asia, Africa and North America. It has been used since ancient times to treat various nervous conditions including depression, anxiety, chronic fatigue and premenstrual syndrome. In modern day, it has been the subject of much scientific research.
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, several studies show that St. John's wort is effective in reducing symptoms of mild-to-moderate depression. The main chemical constituent, hypericin, appears to regulate seratonin, the "feel-good" hormone, in much the same way prescription anti-depressants do, but without the harmful side effects.
The University of Maryland also reports that some studies indicate the herb may be helpful in addressing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, seasonal affective disorder and obsessive compulsive disorders. It is generally taken in capsule form.
German Chamomile
Chamomile is one of the most widely used herbs in alternative medicine. It is a versatile plant that has been used by herbalists for centuries to treat anxiety, menstrual cramps, infant colic, fevers, bronchitis and insomnia. German chamomile is most often recommended, as it is believed to be more potent.
Preliminary studies by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, a division of the National Institutes of Health, found that extracts of German chamomile were more effective than a placebo in treating symptoms of general anxiety disorder, or GAD.
Researchers note that although more studies are needed, the initial results are promising and suggest chamomile may provide an alternative treatment for anxiety without the negative side effects common with prescription medication. Chamomile is often taken as herbal tea.
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