For most people, dealing with stress is a normal part of everyday life. You may experience stress from numerous sources, including your job, family and financial situation. According to the Mayo Clinic, too much stress can create physical and psychological problems. Certain herbal supplements may help you to reduce or manage your stress level. However, you should consult your doctor before taking any supplement, particularly if you have a medical condition or are pregnant or nursing.
Valerian
Valerian is an herb that has been used throughout history for its calming, sedative effects. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, valerian is thought to decrease stress levels and the physical effects of stress. It is commonly used to alleviate insomnia and nervous tension. It may be helpful in promoting better sleep if you have problems sleeping due to stress or anxiety. Valerian may work by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter GABA, which helps to regulate your levels of noradrenaline, dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters aid in stress relief and help to alleviate certain mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. While there has been some promising research that seems to confirm valerian's effectiveness, further studies are needed.
Chamomile
A common ingredient in many commercially-prepared teas for inducing relaxation and stress relief, chamomile has been used for hundreds of years for its healing and soothing properties. Although further research is needed to establish its validity as a supplement for sedation and insomnia relief, chamomile has been used in traditional medicine for its sedative and sleep-inducing abilities, according to the National Institutes of Health Medline Plus website. Chamomile can be used in tea form or as an essential oil to promote stress relief and relaxation. You might try using several drops of chamomile essential oil in a warm bath whenever you need to relax and unwind from the day's stressful events.
American Skullcap
American skullcap is an herb that has been used many years in traditional herbal medicine to promote relaxation and stress relief. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, skullcap has been used as a relaxant and to alleviate nervous tension and anxiety, although further research is needed to support this claim. It may help to alleviate stress levels and tension headaches when taken in capsule form. Skullcap is frequently combined with other herbs such as passionflower to help induce sleep and treat insomnia.
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