Are you feeling stressed or anxious? These five natural stress relievers can help you relax.
Adaptogens are made from herbs and plants and used to counteract the harmful effects of stress on the body. Adaptogens, as the name suggests, 'adapt' to the state in which your body is in, detect imbalances or gaps that prevent it from operating at its best and fill those gaps. Plants must possess three characteristics to serve as adaptogens:
- When consumed in adequate dosages, it is not toxic.
- It aids your body in overcoming stress.
- It enables your body to regain its balance (homeostasis).
But how do these natural stress relievers work? The herbal activity of adaptogens can speed up or slow down chemical processes in your body. For instance, an adaptogen will respond by lowering cortisol levels in response to stress (elevated cortisol). An adaptogen will raise your body's cortisol levels if you feel persistent fatigue due to low cortisol levels.
Ashwagandha
The versatile herb ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng, is used in Ayurvedic medicine and has numerous positive effects on male health, including increased testosterone levels, increased sexual desire, enhanced sperm motility and count and improved erectile dysfunction. But did you know that ashwagandha is categorized as an adaptogen and is one of the most potent natural stress relievers? Ashwagandha regulates your metabolism, aids in relaxation and has beneficial effects on the endocrine, neurological, immunological and cardiovascular systems by calming how your brain reacts to stress.
Moringa
Moringa oleífera, or the miracle tree, is known for its dense nutritional value and anti-inflammatory effects. The bright green moringa powder is a powerhouse of essential protein, vitamins and minerals that have incredible health benefits. But moringa, being an adaptogen, is one of the best natural stress relievers available on the market. Because it aids in boosting resistance to stress, whether caused by physical, chemical, or biological stressors, moringa is known as an adaptogen. It does not interfere with the body's natural processes and aids in restoring the body's equilibrium regardless of the source of the stress. According to a study conducted on rats in 2014, moringa had a significant anxiolytic effect on rats through multiple mechanisms. Learn more about our moringa here.
Holy basil
Did you know that all parts of the holy basil plant act as adaptogens? Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), sometimes referred to as tulsi, is a medicinal plant used to treat many conditions, including high blood sugar, inflammation, arthritis and more. It is one of the best natural stress relievers as it has pharmacological properties to help your brain cope with different types of stress. The Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine claims that holy basil possesses qualities similar to those of diazepam and antidepressant medications in terms of its ability to treat depression and anxiety.
Siberian ginseng
Siberian ginseng, an adaptogen, is one of the most popularly used natural stress relievers. Ginseng's ability to balance and counteract the effects of stress is made possible by eleutherosides, which are ginsenosides found in Siberian ginseng. Siberian ginseng works to normalize how the body reacts to stress and controls the production and release of adrenal hormones. The adrenal glands are strengthened, which is crucial for people who experience chronic stress. Additionally, Siberian ginseng promotes the well-being of the entire central nervous system, which may aid in the restoration of proper neurological function following prolonged stress.
Rhodora rosea
Rhodora rosea roots, also known as arctic roots or golden roots, are classified as adaptogens, which means that when ingested, they aid in the body's ability to cope with stress. Additionally, it has been demonstrated that Rhodiola reduces the signs of burnout, which can result from chronic stress. In one study, 400 mg of Rhodiola was taken daily for 12 weeks by 118 patients who had burnout brought on by stress. Participants in the study demonstrated noticeable improvements in several symptoms, including stress and depression, which are frequently linked to burnout.
