Herbs Used for Stress

Stress is more than a temporary adrenaline release for many people; a 2007 survey found that 33 percent of Americans feel they suffer from extreme stress, according to the American Psychological Association. Around 20 percent feel they have high stress levels more than 15 days out of the month, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports. Stress can lead to physical illness and difficulty carrying out normal daily activities. Alternative medicine practitioners have long used herbs to relieve stress.

Ginseng

Ginseng comes in a number of different forms; the ginseng types most often used as stress relievers include Panax ginseng, sometimes called Asian, Korean or Chinese ginseng; Siberian ginseng; and American ginseng. Ginseng is said to have adaptogenic benefits, which means it reduces the body's normal reactions to stress. The term, first used by the Russians in the 1960s, refers to the modification of the General Adaptation Syndrome, which activates physical reactions like the flight-or-fight syndrome. While some animal studies have shown ginseng may have benefit in reducing stress symptoms, well-designed human clinical studies are lacking. Ginseng may have harmful effects in people with liver or kidney disease, those taking blood thinners and pregnant women. Do not take this supplement without you medical practitioner's approval.

Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola rosea, also called Rose root or common root, is said to have both a stimulating and a calming effect on the central nervous system, depending on the dose taken, the University of Michigan Health System reports. Higher doses have a calming effect. A March 2008 article in the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" on a study conducted by the University of California found that 340 mg of rhodiola rosea reduced symptoms in people with generalized anxiety disorder. Rhodiola may also reduce stress-related fatigue.

Bacopa

Bacopa, an herb used in Ayurvedic medicine, has decreased stress levels in animal studies as shown by reductions in brain chemicals normally associated with stress. A study reported in the May 2007 "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" found that bacopa had similar effects as Panax quinquefolium in reducing stress levels in rats. More study is needed to assess human effects.

Kava Kava

Kava kava comes from the roots of a South Pacific plant. Used to treat insomnia as well as anxiety, kava kava may also cause severe liver damage in some individuals. Do not take this herb without your medical practitioner's approval.