De-stress TheWay
Herbs Can Soothe Stress, Anxiety Without the Side Effects of Prescription Medicine

Webster's New World Dictionary defines stress as a force that "strains" or "deforms." Strain or force on a chair leg or a table is one thing, but when the deforming nature of stress is associated with a person, the affliction takes on a whole new meaning.

Stress can affect everything from sleep patterns to job performance to breathing. Coping with stress is a key factor in order to obtain happiness. The 21st century is packed with plenty of prescription medicines to help humans cope with stress. Unfortunately, many of these medicines feature a handful of negative side effects. As a result, a lot of people are turning to Mother Nature to combat stress. Three herbs in particular--St. John's wort, valerian and kava kava--have been shown to soothe stress.

A word of advice: If you are going to try a natural remedy, research it or consult your physician. Some of these botanicals are powerful and can interact with prescription medications you may be taking. In fact, some may increase your sensitivity to UVR and cause a photosensitive reaction which can be uncomfortable.

St. John's wort

The name St. John's wort refers to the plant Hypericum perforatum. This herb has a rich folkloric tradition and a history of use that began with the ancient Greeks and has continued to the present. It grows and is used throughout Europe, North America and elsewhere.

St. John' s wort traditionally has been used for bronchitis, internal bleeding and for healing wounds, but more recently it has become popular in the United States because of its scientifically documented antidepressant action.

Studies show that St. John's wort reduces anxiety and calms nerves. It also balances the nervous system and helps more than a few busy executives elevate their moods. St. John's wort's active ingredient is a compound called hypericin, which is a property that soothes the nerves, relaxing the entire body.

It is important to note that St. John's wort can cause a photosensitive reaction to the skin. Do not take this if you are going to be out in the sun or tanning in a tanning salon.

Valerian

Valerian is a seditative herb that is very effective for treating insomnia and restlessness. It is often used as a tranquilizer, but unlike most prescription medications, valerian leaves no sluggish effects on the user.

The herb is also used for nervous tension, pain relief, strengthening the heart, lowering blood pressure, IBS, diverticulosis, menstrual cramps and for muscle spasms. Responsible for these effects is the essential oil containing the so-called "valerenic acids" (monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes). Valerian should not be combined with alcohol.

This plant does not contain valium, a myth probably perpetuated by those who are aware of its similar sounding name and loosely similar effects. Valerian comes from the Latin word "valere," which means, "to be in good health." Records of Valerian's use go back more than 1,000 years. It was used as a coffee substitute by German women, as a condiment during medieval times and as a perfume during the 16th century.

Kava

Kava is used to control anxiety, alleviate the symptoms of menopause, alleviate the symptoms of PMS, depression and insomnia. Prior to the introduction of alcohol by Europeans, Pacific islanders used Kava as an intoxicating beverage. It is still used both ceremonially and casually in many south Pacific islands, such as Tahiti, Hawaii, Fiji, the Micronesian Islands, Samoa and others.

Captain Cook's voyage to the Pacific in 1768-71 was the first account of a Westerner encountering the plant and its consumption in sacred ceremonies. According to Cook's account, natives chewed or pounded the root and mixed it with water to produce a thick brew, which they then consumed for its psychoactive properties.

Effects of the drink are described as an initial numbing of the mouth, followed by feelings of relaxation, well-being, increased alertness and increased sociability (which explains its use in place of alcohol among these people). In fact, it should not be consumed with alcohol or anti-anxiety drugs.

Kava appears to act on the brain's limbic system, an altogether different mode of action from typical anxiolytic drugs, which bind to the brain's GABA receptors. Kava's more general mode of action probably explains its wide variety of effects on the body. Kava supporters say the herb has the unique ability to promote a calming effect while increasing mental acuity.

Living a life without stress is virtually impossible, but through the use of herbs we can coexist peacefully with stress. The following herbs are also good for treating this condition: Borage, Chamomile, Damiana, Hops, Lemon Balm, Oat Straw, Passion Flower, Skullcap, Wild Lettuce, Wood Betony and Wormwood.