Healing and medicinal herbs have been around for centuries, and humans have used them for treatment over the years. Various cultures and civilizations have recognized these herbs tremendous healing power and used them to relax and calm the nervous system.
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Also, some herbs help reduce stress significantly and bring down the cortisol hormone’s impact. Stress is part of our daily life, and there are many stressors in our present world. It can be from work, relationships, and demands of everyday living. While many resorts to conventional medicine, it comes with side effects and might not be very effective.
Medicinal herbs, however, provide a unique, natural, and effective way to take care of stress and anxiety. It can produce a soothing and calming effect that will last longer and be effective.
Here are seven herbs that can make you feel relaxed
Table Of Contents
Cannabis
One of the most popular herbs widely known for its relaxation effect is cannabis.
According to research, a puff of cannabis with a low THC level and high CBD can help bring down symptoms of stress and depression in users. Based on the study, the more participants inhaled CBD, the more they experienced relaxation and profound stress reduction.
Also, there are indications that low doses of THC capsules Canada can help induce a feeling of relaxation and reduced stress.
In addition to THC, CBD, a naturally occurring chemical found in cannabis, can help people feel relaxed. CBD is believed to interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors present in the central and peripheral nervous systems.
While science is yet to detect how CBD reacts with the CB1 and 2 receptors, they believe it might affect the signals from serotonin. This is an important neurotransmitter that affects health as a low level of serotonin has been associated with depression and might cause anxiety in some cases.
Chamomile
This is a flowering herb that comes in two types: German Chamomile and Roman chamomile. It is used to alleviate stress and anxiety in people. It is available in the form of tea, tablet, extracts, and cream.
A 2016 research analyzed the safety and efficacy of chamomile in addressing GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder). The research concluded that participants placed strictly in chamomile could beat chamomile with better ability to overcome relapse.
Some people might be allergic to chamomile, which makes it essential to check with the doctor before taking chamomile.
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Lavender
Lavender stands out for its soothing and calming fragrance. Over the years, this powerful herb has been used to address series of ailments ranging from insomnia to fatigue to anxiety and depression.
Lavender is a Latin word meaning lavare, which means to wash. The name might be linked to how popular lavender has been used in baths and as a popular ingredient in soaps.
According to a study in 2010, lavender was proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety in patients with GAD and induce relaxation. Its soothing and calming effect explains its wide use in aromatherapy oil.
Kava Root
Kava root is one of the unique herbs that help induce calmness and relaxation in users. Unlike other herbs, kava does not only make users feel relaxed but can help reduce anxious thoughts also.
The calming effect of kava is an intense anxiety medication that helps fight restlessness, sleeplessness, and anxiety-related symptoms like racing heart, muscle spasm, etc. Kava is available in tablet or capsule form.
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Passionflower
Passionflower is another reliable herb to induce relaxation in users. The herb specifically contains alkaloids and flavonoids, which react with the body’s GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) system to regulate sleep. It induces relaxation both mentally and physically and can be a good choice for people who have trouble sleeping.
Passionflower is also potent in reducing worry and fear. It can produce the same calming effect from a sedative that can reduce stress symptoms like excessive heart rate and high blood pressure.
Ashwagandha
When someone is stressed, the body releases the hormone cortisol. In excess, cortisol makes it hard to relax and can set the ground for various health issues. Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps address excessive levels of cortisol. The herb helps build resilience and mental strength to cope with stress.
Constant use of Ashwagandha can help return the stress response of the body to normal levels. A person who gets excessively anxious and suffers trauma will benefit tremendously from Ashwagandha. The herb affects various hormones and nerves in the body connected to stress.
Ashwagandha has been used for centuries in traditional Indian culture to promote relaxation. There was a clinical study in 2019 that examined the effect of Ashwagandha on stress and anxiety. Based on the survey, Ashwagandha significantly reduced Cortisol in participants, which manifested via improved and better sleep quality.
Valerian
Valerian is a plant common in Asia and Europe. For centuries, valerian root has helped treat sleep issues, depression, and anxiety. It is available for all in tea and tablet form.
Researchers noted that Valerian boosts the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), like other calming herbs, which relaxes the brain.
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Conclusion
With many stressors in our environment today, medicinal herbs might be the best way to induce relaxation in people. The chances of side effects are low, and they come with tremendous benefits.
