Stress is a common problem that almost everyone faces in their life. Work, family, relationships, finances, all contribute to stress. Chronic stress can lead to several health problems like hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and anxiety.

While there are many ways to manage stress, one of the best ways is by using herbs. Herbs have been used since ancient times for medicinal purposes and are still used today for their calming properties. Here are the top 10 herbs to combat stress.

1. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an ancient Indian Ayurvedic herb that has been used for centuries to reduce stress. It is also known as the Indian ginseng and is famous for its adaptogenic properties.

These properties help to balance the body’s stress response, making it a popular choice for stress management. The herb is available in powder or capsule form, and you can also make a tea using the root. Ashwagandha is known to reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone, and increase resistance to stress.

2. Lemon Balm

A member of the mint family, Lemon balm has a lemony scent and is used for its calming effect. It is known to reduce anxiety and help improve sleep quality.

Its anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties make it an excellent herb for boosting the immune system. It can be taken as tea, tincture, or capsule. Lemon balm should not be taken with sedative medications.

3. Chamomile

Chamomile is one of the best-known herbs for calming effects. It is a mild sedative, which makes it an excellent herb for those who have trouble sleeping because of stress.

Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it an excellent herb for the immune system. Chamomile is available in tea, tincture, or capsule form. It is also used in aromatherapy and can be added to a bath or used as a room spray.

4. Lavender

Lavender is a popular herb for its calming and relaxing properties. It is used to reduce anxiety and promote sleep. Its scent is known to reduce heart rate and blood pressure, making it a great herb for stress management.

Lavender is available in essential oil, tea, and capsule form. It is also used in aromatherapy and can be added to a diffuser or used in a massage oil.

5. Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic herb that helps to balance the body’s stress response. It can help to reduce cortisol levels and improve mental and physical performance. This herb is also known to increase energy levels and improve sleep quality.

Rhodiola Rosea is available in capsule or tincture form. It should not be taken with antidepressants or stimulant medications.

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6. Passionflower

Passionflower is a great herb for calming the mind and reducing anxiety. Its sedative properties make it an excellent herb for improving sleep. It also helps to reduce muscle tension and headaches associated with stress.

Passionflower is available in tea, tincture, or capsule form. It should not be taken with sedative medications.

7. Valerian Root

Valerian is an ancient herb that has been used for centuries for its calming properties. It is a mild sedative that helps to reduce anxiety and improve sleep.

Valerian has anti-inflammatory properties and is known to reduce hypertension associated with stress. It is available in tea, capsule, or tincture form. Valerian should not be taken with sedative medications.

8. Holy Basil

Holy Basil is an adaptogenic herb that helps to balance the body’s stress response. It is known to reduce cortisol levels and improve mental clarity. This herb is also used to reduce inflammation and improve the immune system.

Holy Basil is available in tea, tincture, or capsule form. It should not be taken with blood-thinning medications.

9. Ginseng

Ginseng is an adaptogenic herb that helps to balance the body’s stress response. It is known to reduce cortisol levels and improve mental and physical performance. Ginseng is also used to reduce fatigue associated with stress.

Ginseng is available in tea, capsule, or tincture form. It should not be taken with blood-thinning medications.

10. Kava

Kava is a herb that is used for its calming and sedative properties. It is known to reduce anxiety and improve sleep. Kava is also used to reduce muscle tension and headaches associated with stress. Kava is available in tea, tincture, or capsule form.

It should not be taken with sedative medications.

Conclusion

Herbs are a great way to combat stress as they have been used for centuries for their calming properties. They are an excellent alternative to medication and have fewer side effects.

The ten herbs discussed in this article are ashwagandha, lemon balm, chamomile, lavender, rhodiola rosea, passionflower, valerian root, holy basil, ginseng, and kava. Remember to consult with your doctor before trying any new herbs, especially if you’re taking any medications.