Here are some Stress relieving herbs, nutrients and actions you can use to help your body relax:
Plants and Herbs
Chamomile - Used for hundreds of years and a calming agent for children, it also works well for adults. Its apple scent fills the room when you brew a cup and sweetened with honey, it makes you want to take a deep breath, kick your shoes off and sigh.
Sage - One of the most widely used herbs by Native Americans, its use as a calmant is little known. But Sage tea will boost the immune system while healing the nerves. Brew tea using 1 teaspoon of sage per cup of boiling water.
Black elder - is known to induce to body to sweat, Sweating is a way for the body to release toxins, thus removing stress from the body. The flowers and the berries are both used in various ways to promote natural healing within the body. The flowers of the elder berry contain large portions of organic acids and calcium. The berries contain vitamin B1 and vitamin C, along with essential oils.
Peppermint has menthol, as it's active ingredient. Menthol helps ease diarrhea, headaches and colic in babies. Peppermint also contains B vitamins, calcium, and potassium. Peppermint essential oil menthol is known to promote digestion and help prevent gallstones. It soothes the stomach lining relieving stomach cramps. The B vitamins in menthol help improve concentration and performance in the brain and nerves.
The combination of Elderflower and Peppermint tea has been used for centuries to heal pneumonia. This works.
Stinging nettle tea, the natural healer - Nettle Tea has been used through history as a detoxifier for the blood system, removing unwanted impurities. It also helps with lowering blood sugar and improving digestion and relieving pain. People with arthritis are encouraged to use this plant directly on aching joints; it will stimulate the blood, which reduces pain.
Jasmine essential oil has a sweet and floral aroma. It has many healing properties than are very useful it is used as an anti-inflammatory agent, as an antiseptic and as a sedative. It may be blended with other herbs such as bergamot, Clary sage, frankincense, geranium, lime, lemon balm, rose, rosewood and sandalwood. When blended with these herbs its provides many different ways to promote the body’s natural way of healing.
Echinacea, known as the purple coneflower, is native to the prairies of the Western United States. But currently 2 of the 3 species has become more scarce in the wild and now are cultivated for the most part. Echinacea is from the aster family and the roots and above ground parts are harvested while the plant is in flower. Today consumers use echinacea mainly for preventing and treating colds and to help in the healing of infections. It gives the white blood cells and immune system cells that little extra boost they need in helping to fight off colds and flu viruses. In addition to stimulating the immune system it helps accelerate healing of infections that already exist.
Chlorophyll, the green “blood” of plant life is made by plants through a chemical process called photosynthesis. And amazingly, it essentially has the same effects in the body as iron, so it builds our own blood naturally. Catabolic and anabolic at the same time, liquid chlorophyll is a powerful detoxifier and tonic. It cleanses the blood and builds red blood cells while doing it. Because liquid chlorophyll’s composition contains calcium, it is highly useful for people as well as animals with arthritis, bone diseases, and hip dysplasia. Chlorophyll heals chronic conditions both internally and externally, and stops the growth and development of toxic bacteria. Chlorophyll removes toxins from the bones, blood tissues, and intestines. And because chlorophyll helps to thicken and strengthen the walls of the cells, it is also a nutritional aid for the immune system. Liquid chlorophyll counteracts toxins, the result is that the body heal faster. It also works in purifying the liver, eliminates old toxic material, and deodorizes the bowels and the entire body. In the colon, liquid chlorophyll helps keep the colon healthy by destroying disease causing bacteria. It works well in eliminating body odors, abscesses, and other skin sores in people as well as animals. In fact it’s a great help for any digestive problems, constipation, or diarrhea.
Blue gum eucalyptus can be found in Australia, Spain, Brazil, Russia, China and California. This tall tree is very attractive with its long leaves and white flowers. Blue gum eucalyptus oil is steam-distilled from the leaves and bark of the tree. It has a sharp sweet aroma that helps clear the head. Blue gum eucalyptus oil is used as an antiseptic and a pain reliever. Herbalists prescribe blue gum eucalyptus with other essential oils such as lavender, lemon, juniper, and bergamot. Blue gum eucalyptus is a popular antiseptic; the Australian Aborigines use the leaves for healing wounds, fighting infections and help relieve muscle aches and pains. It is used in India to help rid fevers and control contagious diseases. Many of the United States pharmaceutical companies use this essential oil in vapor rubs and many other chest and cold products. This essential oil is also useful for insect bites, burns, wounds, and blisters. It is also an insect repellent, just place 2-tablespoon of blue gum eucalyptus oil and bergamot or lavender in the top of a candle, and use outside. Herbalists suggest blue gum eucalyptus candles for relieving stress-related illnesses. This candle is to be burned to help strengthen the nervous system and aid in concentration.
Kava Kava is a ceremonial relaxant used traditionaly by men indigenous to the Pacific islands. Today it is used by those in the West, to alleviate stress, and to promote a sense of well being. Kava Kava, or Kava for short, exerts its influence over its subjects by means of its active constituents, kavalactones. Kavalactones, bond to the same part of the brain as valium. This is known as the GABAminergic receptor site. However, unlike valium, Kava does not seem to "dumb down" the user. In fact, in one study, verbal recall (the intellect you use when you're trying to remember someone's name) is shown to improve under the influence of Kava. It seems, that Kava is more like another GABA acting substance, this substance being Piracetam, which has been shown to boost some aspects of intelligence. Kava Kava has been shown to increase sensitivity to light and sound, making it especially useful to musicians and artists who seek to polish their artistry. I have personally experimented with Kava Kava use, as a study aid to musical divisions of beat. I have found it very useful in this type of learning as it seems to sedate the body, without the alcohol-like impairment of the mental faculties. I have yet to personally employ it in creative endeavors, though I expect that it will enhance my functioning.
Dill has been a prized herb throughout history. During ancient times they would even accept if for payment of other items. Dill is used to help alleviate hiccups, stomach and intestinal problems, mild insomnia; it helps promote wellness of the liver and gallbladder. The leaves and seeds of dill contain vitamin C, folic acid, beta-carotene and potassium. These help calm stomachs, kill stomach bacteria, and soothe colic in infants. Dill seeds can also be used as breath fresheners. Just chew on a few between meals, it kills bacteria in the mouth which leaves fresher breathe.
Coriander's essential oil has been used through the ages, it was thought by the Egyptian's to provide immorality. The Egyptians also believed in was helpful in raising a man's sperm count. But in today's society it is used in alleviating stomachaches and improving digestion. It is also used to reduce stress where people can express their thoughts. Coriander's essential oil contains linalool, geranial, vitamin C, and Potassium all these aid in the circulatory system, digestive system and is good for the skin. Coriander is also good for migraine headaches, by drinking coriander tea a couple of times per day. To prepare coriander tea, bring a cup of water to a boil add 1/4 teaspoon crushed coriander seeds, let mixture set for ten minutes. Strain and then add 2 teaspoons sugar.
Skullcap, scutellaria lateriflora, was named for its hooded, helmet-like, pink or blue flowers. Skullcap is rich in scuttelarian. This flavonoid has sedative and antispasmodic properties, and herbalists consider it one of the best and safest sedatives of the plant world.
Rosemary is an herb that has silver-green needle like leaves with pale blue or lilac flowers. Rosemary is sought after for it purifying and stimulant characteristics. It can be found worldwide but most of rosemary’s essential oils are produced in Morocco, France and Spain. Rosemary essential is extracted by steam distillation from the flowers and leaves. It has a strong, clean mint aroma. It is used for its antidepressant, antiseptic, digestive, stimulant and tonic properties. Rosemary essential oil is often blended with Atlas cedarwood, geranium, ginger, lemon balm, myrtle and sweet basil.
Nutmeg has a variety of health benefits besides adding it to cookies and pies. It calms and helps lower blood pressure and soothes digestive upset. Mixed with a neutral oil and used in a massage it eases joint pain and inflammation. Nutmeg also provides fast relief for diarrhea and toothaches. The therapeutic effects of nutmeg stimulates the cardiovascular system, promotes concentration, acts as ab expectorant, reduces joint inflammation and helps also with liver removing toxins.
Vetiver is a tall, dense, wild grass with long narrow leaves and a strand of underground white, yellow and brown roots. It is sought after for its calming, protective, soothing and uplifting characteristics. It can be found in Java, Haiti, Japan, Indonesia and South India. Vetiver is used for its antiseptic, sedative, stimulant and tonic properties. Vetiver’s essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from its roots. Vetiver essential oil’s aroma has a smoky woody scent. It is often blended with geranium, jasmine, lavender and rosewood. Vetiver has been used throughout his in many different cultures for many different reasons from its healing abilities to ceremonies. In India and Sri Lanka it is known as the oil of tranquility.
Here are some essential oils that are used to remove stress and calm the nerves:
Geranium
Patchouli
Sweet Myrtle
Sweet Basil
Sweet Marjoram
Lavender
Hawthorn flower
Sweet Fennel
Tea Tree oil
Juniper oil
Nutmeg oil
Ginger oil
Rose otto
Clary Sage
Eucalyptus oil
Sandalwood
2006-08-05 17:33:29
·
answer #1
·
answered by jennifer7228 4
·
1⤊
0⤋
I know this is off the subject some but yoga is good for stress reduction
Diet
Eliminating coffee should be the first step. There is significant clinical evidence showing that it can be all that is needed in some cases. Other foods that may worsen anxiety in excess are refined sugar honey, maple syrup and cow's milk products.
Nutritional Supplements & Vitamins
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) - GABA is an amino acid that is known to play a role in the physiology of anxiety. Presciption drugs for anxiety such as Valium and Xanax work by affecting GABA receptors in the brain. However, the degree to which orally ingested GABA supplements can reach the brain is unknown.
Other nutritional supplements used for anxiety include pantothenic acid, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B complex.
Herbs
Kava - Kava (Piper methysticum) is a herb that is used widely in Europe for nervous anxiety, tension, agitation, and insomnia. Native to Polynesia, kava appears to work in a similar way to prescription benzodiazepine drugs such as Xanax and Valium, with similar effectiveness. Kava doesn't appear to cause mental drowsiness unless taken in large doses. Nevertheless, it is best to use caution until you know the extent of its effects on you. The benefits is often noticeable within weeks, but some people notice improvement after as little as a week. Kava should not be used by people who have had dystonic reactions from antipsychotic drugs or who have Parkinson's disease, as case reports indicate that kava may interfere with dopamine. People taking benzodiazepines such as Valium should only take kava under the strict guidance of a qualified professional.
Valerian - Valerian is a herbal traquilizer that is best known as a remedy for insomnia. It calms the nervous system, balances mood swings, and is not habit forming. One study found that it may have calming effects during stressful situations. It can be blended with other herbs such as hops or passionflower. Valerian should not be used by children, pregnant or nursing women. People with serious health conditions, or who are taking prescription drugs for mood or neurological disorders should consult a qualified professional before taking valerian.
Other herbs - Chamomile, hops, lemon balm, passion flower, skullcap and suma are calming herbs that are frequently recommended for anxiety.
Physical Activity
Exercise is perhaps the safest and most effective method of managing stress. Cardiovascular exercise combined with calming exercise such as walking several times per week can be very beneficial.
Aromatherapy
Plant essential oils can be added to baths, massage oil, or infusers. A few drops of essential oils in massage oil can be massaged into the scalp and temples before bed. Essential oils that are used for anxiety and nervous tension are: bergamot, cypress, geranium, jasmine, lavender, melissa, neroli, rose, sandalwood, ylang-ylang. Lavender is the most common and forms the base of many relaxing blends.
Bodywork
Massage therapy, shiatsu, and other forms of bodywork can relax muscle tension, relieve stress, and improve sleep.
Stress-Reduction Techniques
Mind/body breathing exercises, physical exercise, yoga, tai chi, self-hypnosis, massage, meditation, and biofeedback are just some of the stress reduction techniques used for anxiety. Try different techniques and determine which routine you can stick with even when your schedule becomes even more hectic.
2006-08-05 17:13:12
·
answer #5
·
answered by not_an_angel_just_a_girl 3
·
0⤊
0⤋