4 Natural Supplements to Ease Stress
When we are stressed out, it’s difficult to complete even in the simplest of tasks. We become distracted, emotional, tired and lethargic. The natural world of plants has many solutions to help us ease our stress levels. Remember, if you are taking any pharmaceutical medicine it’s important to speak to your doctor, before you try any new supplement.
1 . Kava Kava
Kava is a herb that grows in the South Pacific Islands; for centuries it’s been used as a drink for celebration or relaxation. You may also hear Kava referred to under the botanical name of ‘Piper methysticum’. The plant contains a substance referred to as ‘kava pyrones’, these are the active ingredients which help our bodies and minds to destress. It’s widely suggested that Kava can relieve pain, relax muscles and ease feelings of anxiety.
2. Valerian Root
Valerian root is grown across both Asia and Europe, a plant with many therapeutic benefits. The plant contains valeric acid and isovaleric acid, both which can help us to destress and get a better night’s sleep. Valerian root is thought to influence GABA, which is a chemical that regulates the nervous system and brain. It’s believed that the plant prevents GABA from breaking down, which then produces feelings of relaxation. Due to its sedative properties, many prefer to take valerian in the evening before they are going to sleep.
3. Rhodiola
Rhodiola is a herb which grows across both Asia and Russia. It’s believed that Rhodiola helps to improve stress resistance in our bodies. It’s the active ingredients salidroside and rosavin which are thought to be responsible for the calming effects. According to a study in Healthline, Rhodiola helped to improve symptoms in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome, as well as those with stress related burnout.
4. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a plant that is native to India, the herb has been used for thousands of years in natural medicine. Ashwagandha reduces cortisol levels which are responsible for stress within our bodies. The herb has many other health benefits including lowering cholesterol, easing inflammation and reducing blood sugar levels. You can buy ashwagandha in the form of tea if you prefer this to a regular supplement.
Easing stress
To improve your health and your mood, it’s vital to eat the right foods. Choose foods that boost your mood, including fish, bananas, fermented foods and dark chocolate. You should also choose foods that boost your immune system and protect your body from free radicals. Walnuts are an excellent food to fight off free radicals as these are packed with antioxidants. Other immune system boosting foods include spinach, fish and citrus fruits.
Health check ups
It’s important to keep up with your health-care check-ups because our physical and mental health are largely connected. From your eye tests to your hearing check-ups, book those appointments, to prioritize your overall health. For those with hearing aids, it’s advisable to try rechargeable hearing aids. These types mean you get extended usage time, and don’t have to worry about batteries running out.