Modern life has lots of helpful gadgets and leisure activities. However, it also seems to come with too much to do in too little time. People juggle work and family commitments, social and professional life, and money worries that complicate everything. Doctors tell us that the resulting loss of serenity is bad for both physical and mental health. Nutritionists say that a balanced diet of whole foods - which few can achieve - can help. For those who fall short in this area, an all natural herbal supplement for stress can be the answer.
What traditionally have been called herbs are simply plants rich in vitamins and minerals. Some, like dandelions, are mainly nutritive, while others are used for their therapeutic effect. Stress is known to deplete our bodies of minerals and vitamins, which herbal teas or pills replenish. In addition, many herbs contain other substances which promote mental calm and physical relaxation.
Stressful situations which cause us to worry or to become anxious or fearful are common to almost all. Mental and emotional tensions cause the adrenal glands to produce adrenaline, the 'fight or flight' hormone. This is a natural response, but when it happens too frequently, these important glands may become exhausted, which is a serious disorder. Too much of the hormone is a problem, but too little leaves the body without its natural defenses.
The same nutrients that keep the adrenals strong are depleted by a constant state of tension. Vitamins E, A, C, and D are used up, and vital minerals like magnesium, zinc, and selenium may become deficient. Since many of these nutrients are already in short supply in a modern diet, an increased need may affect our well-being.
Herbal extracts and formulas can give us what our diets may lack. Some formulas may be fortified with additional nutrients known to be needed in stressful living. Familiar anti-stress herbs are chamomile and holy basil. There are also ashwagandha (which gives us stamina and promotes deeper sleep), rhodiola, lemon balm, and passion flower.
The epidemic of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and heart problems can be attributed in part to too much anxiety. This can also cause digestive upsets, ulcers, and depression. Cravings for food or addictive substances are heightened, and weight control goes out the window. PMS and menopausal symptoms may worsen.
Exercise is one important stress-reliever which can be a negative if pursued too aggressively. While gentle activities like walking and swimming can relieve tension, extreme effort can trigger destructive hormonal responses. Also, many people are too busy or tired to maintain a healthful program of physical exertion. Again, an herbal supplement can be the answer.
Consumers should be informed about herbs and the companies which sell them. Single herbal products can be helpful, as can formulas which offer a combination of herbs in one pill or tea. A reliable manufacturer will offer products backed by research and produced in accordance with good manufacturing practices. It is also important to take supplements as directed, for best results and safety. Too little may not help and too much might be dangerous.
What traditionally have been called herbs are simply plants rich in vitamins and minerals. Some, like dandelions, are mainly nutritive, while others are used for their therapeutic effect. Stress is known to deplete our bodies of minerals and vitamins, which herbal teas or pills replenish. In addition, many herbs contain other substances which promote mental calm and physical relaxation.
Stressful situations which cause us to worry or to become anxious or fearful are common to almost all. Mental and emotional tensions cause the adrenal glands to produce adrenaline, the 'fight or flight' hormone. This is a natural response, but when it happens too frequently, these important glands may become exhausted, which is a serious disorder. Too much of the hormone is a problem, but too little leaves the body without its natural defenses.
The same nutrients that keep the adrenals strong are depleted by a constant state of tension. Vitamins E, A, C, and D are used up, and vital minerals like magnesium, zinc, and selenium may become deficient. Since many of these nutrients are already in short supply in a modern diet, an increased need may affect our well-being.
Herbal extracts and formulas can give us what our diets may lack. Some formulas may be fortified with additional nutrients known to be needed in stressful living. Familiar anti-stress herbs are chamomile and holy basil. There are also ashwagandha (which gives us stamina and promotes deeper sleep), rhodiola, lemon balm, and passion flower.
The epidemic of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and heart problems can be attributed in part to too much anxiety. This can also cause digestive upsets, ulcers, and depression. Cravings for food or addictive substances are heightened, and weight control goes out the window. PMS and menopausal symptoms may worsen.
Exercise is one important stress-reliever which can be a negative if pursued too aggressively. While gentle activities like walking and swimming can relieve tension, extreme effort can trigger destructive hormonal responses. Also, many people are too busy or tired to maintain a healthful program of physical exertion. Again, an herbal supplement can be the answer.
Consumers should be informed about herbs and the companies which sell them. Single herbal products can be helpful, as can formulas which offer a combination of herbs in one pill or tea. A reliable manufacturer will offer products backed by research and produced in accordance with good manufacturing practices. It is also important to take supplements as directed, for best results and safety. Too little may not help and too much might be dangerous.
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