Gifts from Nature - Herbal Stress Relief

Herbal stress relief can be a powerful way to soothe and nourish the nervous system. The following are some of the less known herbs for stress relief:

Polygala root is a powerful Chinese herb used in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) to relieve anxiety, soothe and calm the nervous system. It is also used for insomnia.

Sour jujube seed is another Chinese herb used because of its tranquilizing effects on the nervous system. Sour jujube is most commonly used in connection with insomnia and to ease night terrors.

Hops, also known as Common hops or European hops, is being used for its relaxing and sedative properties. This herb is most commonly combined with other herbs - like valerian and passionflower.

Peony root, also called White peony, is known to be a muscle relaxant and an emotional stabilizer. This herb is also used as an overall blood tonic and is prized by women for its ability to soothe menstrual tension and cramps.

Catnip has sedative properties and causes drowsiness. It is used as a general anti-stress herb.

Skullcalp has a tranquilizing effect on the nervous system and is therefore used as a mild sedative.

Wild oat is a grass native to Europe. Used as a tea, wild oats act as a nerve tonic. This herb (or a grass) provides nourishment to the nervous system, calms down fragile nerves and helps ease depression.

Schizandra is a Chinese herb and it belongs to the class of herbs called adaptogens. Schizandra can give you an energy boost and wake you up, or it can calm you down and settle down your nervous system – it all depends on what your body needs.

Rehmannia is another herb native to China. This herb helps to protect adrenal glands (the main glands involved in the stress reaction). Rehmannia is also used to improve energy levels.

Continue to learn more about basic herbs for stress.

Precautions: Herbs should not replace conventional medicine. Always talk to your doctor, a naturopath, or other qualified health care professional before taking any herbs.

Herbal stress relief is one way to help you and your nervous system to cope more effectively with stress. Other ways of getting stress relief are:

• Exercise
• Yoga
• Meditation
• Adequate sleep
• Having fun
• Proper breathing
• Healthy nutrition

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