We all have busy lives and there is often so much crammed into our day with work, family, kids and our social lives. Combine that with the ever-present knowledge of increasing work expectations, skyrocketing car payments, crippling mortgages and the cost of living, we are challenged to do more, often with less which places a tremendous amount of stress on our emotional health, minds and bodies.
This ever-present stress and anxiety that can follow, affects both our ability to perform, mentally and physically, and can have deleterious implications for our health and wellbeing.
However, with young children or newborn babies constantly needing our attention, finding time to truly care for ourselves and move in a way that is right for us to feel whole in our lives can be a challenge.
Here are five of our favourite naturally occurring herbs which can easily be included in your day, to help you destress.
As always, everyone is different so always best to check with your GP or health practitioner to make sure these are right for you, especially if you’re breastfeeding.
Siberian Ginseng
While it might sound like a new Cirque de Soleil show, the root of the Siberian Ginseng plant has been used for centuries in traditional healing systems and is great at restoring balance between the different systems in the body. Use it to treat adrenal exhaustion, so good for those mornings following a night when the kids are waking up at all hours and your sleep was heavily disrupted. However, as stated above, this one in particular is not a good one for breastfeeding mothers.
Withania
Another ancient herb which has been used through the centuries and is considered a cornerstone of traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine. The root of the Withania bush can improve our capacity to withstand chronic stress and treat mild anxiety. It can even reduce cortisol levels in the body, a hormone produced during times of deep stress.
St John’s Wart
Ugly name but a beautiful herb, this pretty yellow flower works with your brain to prevent the nerve cells from reabsorbing the chemical messenger serotonin as well as dopamine and noradrenaline. A great one for treating post-natal depression or general mild depression as it’s a fantastic relaxant. Not recommended for those that are on other anti-depressants.
Zizyphus
Another great sedative, the fruit of the Zizyphus shrub can be used for a number of positive health outcomes, including calming of the nerves and mind. Zizyphus is a gorgeous herb to help with insomnia or shallow sleep. A better one for breastfeeding mothers but always make sure you’re checking with your physician.
Passionflower/Lavender
Two for the price of one here. Passionflower is a herb which can be taken as a tea infusion for helping with anxiety, nervousness and in a larger dose, insomnia. Lavender is in the same wheelhouse in that it’s helpful for anxiety, depression and in helping you fall asleep naturally.
Article from: Elizabeth Mucci is a scientist, nutritionist and herbalist with a Masters in Reproductive Medicine and over 18 years experience as a clinician and teacher. Elizabeth has helped thousands of patients start their families, manage chronic illness, lose weight, gain hormonal balance and overcome a range of unresolved health issues through her clinic in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. Learn more about Elizabeth’s practice and her patient’s experience via her website, https://lifeontheinside.com.au
