Using stress-reducing supplements to improve your health

Why not try herbal supplements to help you reduce stress? Rather than getting sleeping pills or a strong pharmaceutical drug, a herbal supplement can be an excellent complementary medicine. Though they should not replace modern medicine, herbal supplements can be used as a preventative measure. They make useful food supplements that can be the first port of call before consulting your doctor. Always check with your Doctor and a qualified herbalist or naturopath if it is okay for you to take a specific supplement, especially if you have any medical condition or if you are pregnant. For your wellbeing and the reduction of stress there are several herbal remedies, now known as food supplements, that you can try.

The benefits of herbal supplements are that they come from natural plants and have many qualities that are found in nature, rather than man-made chemicals which could cause side effects. However, it is worth stating again that you should always consult with the correct medical practitioner, as even herbal medicines can, in rare cases, cause reactions if they are not suitable for you. This remains the case if you are already taking any form of pharmaceutical of herbal product, as they might have contra-indications.

Valerian – Many have tried this with great success; Valerian is an excellent relaxant and can aid sleep very well. Some people experience minor side-effects such as headaches, but most find it very useful for reducing stress and anxiety during the day and helping them to sleep at night.

St John’s Wort – This herbal remedy is widely known as a de-stresser. You can take it in tincture form, put a few drops in water, or simply swallow it with water.St John’s Wort is a natural herb commonly found wild in theUK and abroad. Nature has provided us with all the means of leading a long healthy life, and St John’s Wort is just one of hundreds of herbs you can find growing wild in the countryside.

Passionflower – Known mostly for raising your state of consciousness to a higher state of mind and lightening up your awareness from the heavy negative thoughts derived from the stresses and strains of everyday life. Again, as with most herbs this can be taken in tincture, powder or pill form, and it is sometimes mixed with other herbs said to relax your mind. You might also consider taking passionflower in the form of a herbal infusion.

There are many other herbal products associated with helping your wellbeing; these are just a few of the more well-known ones. There have been many studies trying to identify whether these herbs have a scientific basis. Some research claims that they do and other research disputes this. Under the advice of qualified practitioners, it is certainly worth a try for the sake of your wellness.