Herbal and Alternative Remedies
There are many medical treatments for people suffering from disorders caused by stress. These medications sometimes create new problems because of their numerous side effects. However, there are many natural and alternative treatments for stress and stress-related diseases, and some of these treatments are gaining popularity because of the decreased incidences of adverse reactions with natural products.
Chamomile and St. Johns Wart
Herbal remedies have been used for hundreds of years to treat almost any medical condition. Some of the herbs that are commonly used for stress reduction and treatment include chamomile and St. Johns Wart. Chamomile is brewed in a tea that and has been known to cause a sense of calm and relaxation – sometimes even aiding sleep. Chamomile is also excellent for reducing anxiety because of that same calming effect.
St. Johns Wart is usually sold in capsule or tablet form for mood enhancement. This herb is believed to decrease fluctuations in mood and alleviate depression. St. Johns Wart has been a popular herb for stress management since medieval times and has continued to be popular to this day.
Valerian Root and Kava
Valerian root and Kava herb are also known as being excellent for the reduction of stress. Both of these herbs cause a person to sleep more deeply and are thought to promote a sense of well-being. Valerian root has also been used in many herbal sleep medications and can be great for those that are having insomnia induced by stress and anxiety.
Cautions
You can find most of these herbs and many others at local health food stores. It is important to mention the use of herbs to your physician because some herbs do create changes in the body that may affect medications and your usual metabolism. You should never start taking any natural treatments without consulting your physician first. Just because these herbs are natural does not mean that they are not very potent substances.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or CBT is also used as an alternative treatment for stress and anxiety. In this therapy, a professional counselor teaches practical techniques for handling stress quickly. Some of these techniques include breathing and “mental picture” therapies that allow the brain to focus on something other than the stressful event. CBT is often combined with an exercise program to increase the benefit of the treatment.
Other Useful Changes
Changes in diet and the removal of certain foods from a diet can also decrease stress. Some people are affected greatly by the changes in their blood sugar levels during an average day. Creating a diet that removes those ups and downs during the day will also lower stress levels.
Many people have allergies to foods that they are not even aware of. Avoiding wheat or meat products often lowers stress hormone levels. The combination of herbal supplements and diet and exercise programs is one of the most commonly practiced of the alternative stress remedies and may just be one of the best.
Best Herbal and Alternative Stress Treatments
