Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being. When mental health is compromised, it can lead to various emotional and physical problems. Mood swings, anxiety, depression, and stress are common mental health issues that many people face.
While there are several treatments on the market, some natural plant-based remedies can improve mental health. Herbs, teas, and other plant-based supplements have been used as cost-effective and safe options to promote good mental health.
H2: Ashwagandha
This herb is an effective plant-based remedy for reducing stress and anxiety. Ashwagandha helps improve mood and reduces cortisol levels in the body.
Cortisol is a stress hormone that when produced in large amounts can lead to weight gain and high blood pressure. Taking Ashwagandha regularly can help lower cortisol levels, reducing stress levels and anxiety. Additionally, it has been found to boost cognitive function and strengthen the immune system.
The herb is available in pill and powder form and can be added to teas, tonics, or smoothies.
H2: Chamomile
Chamomile is a classic herb used for calming nerves and reducing insomnia. The herb has chrysin, which helps reduce anxiety levels by promoting relaxation. It works by binding to GABA receptors in the brain, which positively affects mood.
If you’re looking to promote good mental health, chamomile tea is a great option. Drinking chamomile tea before bed can soothe anxiety and calm the mind, ensuring deep sleep. It can also be consumed as capsules, extracts, or oils.
H2: Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Its active ingredient, curcumin, can help reduce depression by increasing serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain.
Serotonin and dopamine are neurotransmitters that regulate moods and emotions. Adding turmeric to your daily meals can improve brain function, reduce inflammation, and improve memory function. It can also be consumed as a supplement in pill form.
H2: Lemon balm
Lemon balm is a lemon-scented herb that has been used for centuries in traditional medicines for treating anxiety and depression. It has rosmarinic acid, which is an active compound that reduces stress levels and calms the mind.
Drinking lemon balm tea before bed can aid sleep and relaxation, subsequently reducing anxiety levels. It can also be consumed as a supplement in pill or oil form.
H2: Lavender
Lavender is known for its calming and relaxing effects. The herb works by increasing GABA levels in the brain, which helps reduce anxiety levels, stress, and depression.
Taking lavender oil or adding lavender to your tea or bathwater can improve sleep, reduce stress, and enhance cognitive function. Lavender is also a natural stress-reliever that can help to alleviate migraines, cures insomnia, and improves digestion.
H2: St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort is a natural mood enhancer that has been used to treat mild to moderate depression and anxiety. Its active ingredient, hypericin, works by increasing the production of dopamine and serotonin, which helps to regulate moods. Taking St.
John’s Wort supplements regularly can help improve mood, reduce anxiety levels, and alleviate irritability. It is available as pills, capsules, or as dried plants.
H2: Passionflower
Passionflower is a herb that has sedative effects when taken orally. Passionflower is well known for its calming and relaxation benefits as the compound known as chrysin and apigenin present in it helps to reduce anxiety and depression levels.
It is taken by people who have anxiety before sleeping to help them fall asleep quickly. Passionflower is available in several forms, including teas, capsules, extracts, and tinctures.
H2: Ginseng
Ginseng is a herb that has been used for centuries to treat a range of health conditions, including mental health. The herb is available in various forms, including Panax, Siberian and American ginseng.
Ginseng has potent adaptogenic properties, which help to reduce stress and improve mood. Consuming ginseng regularly has been found to lower cortisol levels, reducing stress levels significantly. It can also improve memory function and improve cognitive performance, making it an excellent option for mental health.
H2: Rosemary
Rosemary is another herb that has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have found that people who consume rosemary regularly have better cognitive function, improved mood, and better sleep.
The herb has chemicals that help to regulate moods, as well as promote relaxation and calmness. Rosemary can be added to meals or consumed as supplements. Additionally, it can be steeped with tea or bathwater, enhancing relaxation and calming effects.
H2: Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola rosea is a herb that helps to reduce stress and regulate mood. It has been found to improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety levels.
Consuming Rhodiola Rosea supplements regularly can help to alleviate depressive symptoms and regulate mood swings. Rhodiola Rosea is a powerful adaptogen and is available in pill and powder forms.
Conclusion
Good mental health has several benefits, including improving relationships, increasing productivity, and enhancing overall well-being.
While there is no secret to good mental health, incorporating plant-based remedies in one’s diet and lifestyle can promote mental health naturally. Herbs, teas, and other plant-based supplements mentioned in this article have been found to aid stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and reduce depression.
The natural approach to promote good mental health is safe, cost-effective and produces long-lasting effects.