Stress Kicker – Natural Herbal Remedies
Introduction: Homeopathic Philosophy
Herbal remedies combat stress are popular: one need only check the Internet for the amount of websites promoting herbal and homoeopathic remedies. Stress is a common predicament today. It can lead to all manner of health problems: everything from ulcers to impotence; heart problems, digestive problems even leading to cancer. Not everyone goes to doctor, or necessarily trusts modern medicine. Homoeopathy is a controversial alternative and many of its remedies are so dilute that conventional science argues it can not really be effective. However, homeopathy seeks to use chemicals, particularly from naturally occurring compounds such as herbs, to treat like with like with like: this recreates symptoms in a minute way. The symptoms are seen as the body’s way of attempting to restore its own equilibrium.
Herbs are Chemicals Too!
One of the more commonly cited reasons for turning to herbal remedies to combat stress is the belief that being based on natural compounds, side effects are less likely. What is not so commonly understood is that many of the properties that make herbal remedies so effective are why many of their constituent chemicals are used as the basis for conventional drugs. Valerian root, recommended as a sedative, is the basis of valium.
If They are Chemicals What Do They Do?
What many of the herbal remedies do in stress relief is either calm the system down, or act as a sedative or tranquilizer (Hops,) Some claim to have anti-oxidants (Flavinoids) (Passion Flower).Some claim to be mood stabilizers such as Skull Cap; Cat nip works on de-stressing the brain and well as calming the digestive system. Quite the opposite effect that the plant has on a cat! Something like Rhodiola, an adaptogenic herb suggested for people who are continually have disrupted sleep patterns, regulates the heart, as well as suppressing the depression causing chemicals in the brain and improving the serotonin levels. It’s also an aphrodisiac: perhaps another way of improving the mood? Chamomile, commonly drunk as a sedative tea will also help the immune system during times of depression. St John’s Wort is commonly also used as a natural anti-depressant although it should be used with caution if taking other medication.
Other uses For the Herbs
Herbal remedies are not necessarily about ingesting: aromatherapy is very popular. Smelling scented oils like lavender, usually in an oil burner or dropped into the bath is said to have a calming effect on the brain. However, stress can also be controlled by being more positively pro-active. Exercise, a good diet and plenty of down time are also really useful in coping with life.
Conclusions
Herbal remedies have been used for thousands of years. Some of the medications we use today were originally based on natural materials. Herbal remedies are an effective treatment for many ailments, not limited to but including conditions such as stress.
