Everyone experiences stress from time to time. Stress is not necessarily a bad thing, for example, it can help us perform better and achieve our goals. However, chronic stress can be very distressing and can lead to a variety of health problems. If you are suffering from stress, try to eliminate the possible sources where possible. Learning relaxation techniques may also help. Some herbs may have a calming effect and may help you cope better. However, it is important to get medical advice before using them as they can cause side effects and may also interact with other drugs you may be taking.
Examples and Administration
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that several herbs may help reduce stress including kava and valerian. Kava, a member of the pepper family, is sometimes used as an alternative remedy for anxiety and insomnia. Valerian has been used as medicinal aid since the times of ancient Greece and Rome and has a calming effect. The center suggests taking 150mg of valerian two or three times daily. Alternatively, you may prefer to take 100mg to 200mg of kava two to four times per day.
Efficacy
Studies specifically evaluating the role of kava and valerian for the treatment of stress are limited. However, the results of a clinical study by D. Wheatley, published in the June 2001 issue of "Human Psychopharmacology," found that both compounds significant relieved stress severity. Research by M Cropley et al, published in the February 2002 issue of "Phytotherapy Research," also found that kava and valerian helped reduce the physiological effects of stress. More up-to-date studies are lacking.
Side Effects
RxList.com notes that kava may be unsafe as even short-term use may cause liver damage. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine adds that kava may cause dystonia, a condition that is characterized by abnormal muscle spasms or movements. MedlinePlus reports that short-term use of valerian is likely safe although some people may experience side effects including insomnia, headache and a feeling of unease. Discontinuing valerian treatment may also cause side-effects so it is best to withdraw dosage slowly.
Considerations
Valerian and kava are not suitable stress-relievers for everyone. Do not use either of these herbs if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Avoid valerian if you are scheduled to undergo surgery as it may add to the effects of the anesthetic. Kava and valerian may also interact with other drugs including medicines that have a sedating effect and drugs that are modified by the liver. Also avoid kava if you suffer from Parkinson's disease, depression or any form of liver disease.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Stress
- PubMed.gov: Stress-Induced Insomnia Treated with Kava and Valerian: Singly and in Combination; D. Wheatley; June 2001
- PubMed.gov: Effect of Kava and Valerian on Human Physiological and Psychological Responses to Mental Stress Assessed Under Laboratory Conditions; M. Cropley et al; February 2002
- RxList: Kava
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Kava
- MedlinePlus: Valerian
