High cortisol may be a hidden epidemic. Robert Kapolsky, author of the best-selling book on stress, "Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers," explains that chronic lower-grade stressors like mortgages, meetings and commuting cause excessive release of cortisol, known as the "stress hormone." Cortisol has many functions in the body, and the health effects associated with its excessive release include reduced mental functioning, reduced immune system competence and the development of allergies, so it stands as no surprise that many wish to use herbs to lower their cortisol levels. Please be sure to consult your physician before using any herbs or herbal products.
Rhodiola
Rhodiola demonstrates adaptogenic properties; this means it can lower hormones when high, but boost them when required. Studies by Dr. Petkov in the 80s, discussed on the website nutritionalreviews.org, showed that rhodiola contains a variety of unique compounds that may help you cope with the increased demands of stress and help lower excessive cortisol levels. The herb contains rhodioloside, glycoside compounds and p-tyrosol. The combination of these compounds can provide an adaptogenic effect on the adrenal hormones, normalizing the high output of hormones like cortisol, while simultaneously working against the depletion of catecholamines like norepinephrine and dopamine, which may occur during times of sustained stress; supporting these catacholamine levels, boosts mood and energy levels. As such, researchers consider rhodiola a useful tool in combating both physical and mental stress. Please be sure to discuss herbs and herbal products with a health care professional before use.
Ginseng
Another adaptogenic herb, Siberian ginseng demonstrates a wide array of effects on the human body. Ginseng's affect on the adrenal glands is believed to be crucial in this regard. Researchers from the University of Maryland Medical Center list eleutherosides as the active component in the herb, and credit it with an ability to lower inappropriate production of cortisol, but boost secretion when serum levels fall short of optimum. The herb, also known by its Latin name, eleuthero senticoccus, has provided support for a variety of populations, from patients of doctors in China to Russian athletes taking part in Olympic competition. Its other effects include increased resistance to stress and enhanced mental performance. Please be sure to consult your physician before using any herbs or herbal products.
Valerian
Valerian root remains a popular herb for reducing anxiety and enhancing the quality of sleep, and understanding the mechanism of this action allows you to see how it may reduce cortisol levels also. During stressful situations, the sympathetic nervous system responds sending a reflexive signal to the adrenal glands to release adrenaline and cortisol. Kapolsky explains how adrenaline, together with a number of other actions, activates a part of the brain called the amygdala. When activated, the amygdala increases anxiety and awareness, but also further increases adrenaline and cortisol output, which can exaggerate the situation. Use of valerian root stops this. Always consult a health care professional before using any herbs or herbal products.
References
- "Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers"; Dr. Robert Kapolsky; 2002.
- Nutritional Reviews: Rhodiola Rosea
- Smart-Publications.com: Siberian Ginseng -- The Universal Restorative Tonic
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Siberian Ginseng
