Stress and Herbs

My life has been so stressful lately.  Within 2 months, Mom had a stroke, my stepfather passed away, my older son was deployed for the second time, and my youngest son graduated from high school.  Any one of these events would be enough to deal with, but I have been faced with all of them. The trick to making it through tough times is to learn how to deal with stress. 

Stress can be a killer.  It contributes to chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.  When you are under stress, hormones are released that interfere with sleep and can also damage the brain areas critical to memory formation and can cause us to age prematurely.  On the other hand, stress isn't all bad.  Without change, life would be boring and uneventful. 

If you are experiencing out of control stress, you need to step back and try to reassess the situation and place it in a positive light.  Of course, this is easier said than done.  Instead of focusing on the uncontrollable situation, look for something you can do - any kind of concrete action.  For example, if you are in a hurry to get somewhere and you are stuck in traffic, you could call ahead and let someone know the situation, call to re-route anyone else you know may be coming in that direction - just do something!  Try to take control of the situation - what can you do to help?  The more control you can take - the less stress you will feel. 

Sometimes positive behaviors and thoughts just aren't enough and we have to turn to some kind of help.  This is where herbs can step in and help you to cope.  Typically, you would want to use the adaptogen herbs.  An adaptogen herb is an herb that whenever you take it - it determines if you are male or female and "adapts" to whatever you need.  Adaptogens work at the molecular and cellular level to help combat stress.  Ginseng, astragalus, schisandra, eleuthero, and rhodiola are a few of the adaptogen herbs that not only combat stress but will boost your immune system.  This is a very good thing because chronic stress will undermine the immune system setting you up for chronic illnesses. 

Another class of herbs for stress are the nervines.  These include chamomile, skullcap, or lemon balm.  You might want to include herbs that strengthen the heart, as stress can take its toll on your cardiovascular system.  Motherwort is calming and can calm heart palpitations.  Hawthorn is a good all around tonic for the heart. 

If you need help sleeping you might try valerian or hops.  These can induce a restful nights sleep. 

You will also need to make sure you are eating a very nutritious diet.  Since summer is on its way and the garden produce is plentiful, at least this is one thing that is easier to accomplish.

So remember, take control of the situation, and just know that there are many different herbs which can help you out greatly.  I know I have been using a few lately!  If you need help with which herb you might need or how to take them, dosages, etc. please contact me and we can discuss your individual situation. 

Remember - worry is like a rocking chair - it keeps you busy but you get nowhere!

Stay Strong!