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If you too often suffer from stress, you might want to try one of these 5 herbs for more inner peace. Stress is something almost everyone suffers from. Natural herbs may be able to help, through their relaxing effects or by making your body more resilient to stress. In this blog, we list the 5 best herbs for you.
Those seeking more peace of mind and body can, of course, engage in more meditation and relaxing activities. But this may not help enough against the restlessness in your head. Then, fortunately, there are herbs that can help, especially those with adaptogenic properties. Below we list the best herbs that can help you release stress better.
Skull cap (skullcap) has been used for centuries for its muscle relaxing properties. In the book LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury states that it used to be used for nerve disorders and epilepsy. Now it is used as a sedative and sleep aid, often in combination with valerian. It is very effective to reduce muscle tension due to stress and for sleep problems (Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2011 mouse study), especially when caused by brooding. Said research was conducted on mice, so it is not certain if skullcap would have the same effects on humans.
Reishi is a medicinal mushroom with adaptogenic properties. Adaptogenic means that the drug helps the body adapt to conditions. In Japan and China, reishi has long been valued for its positive impact on health. The mushroom can help support the immune system and has a relaxing effect on stress.
These properties stem from the fact that reishi supports the functioning of the adrenal glands. These secrete cortisol, a hormone involved in the stress response (research PubMed, 2018). There are several studies showing that Reishi can help prevent damage from stress (Nature, 2020 and PubMed 2014). But these are either small-scale studies on humans or research on animals.
The stress response is a complex interplay of different bodily systems. We do not yet understand how everything affects each other and how reishi responds to that. Medicinal mushrooms are not suitable for everyone, ask your doctor for advice on whether reishi is right for you. If you want to try reishi, this mushroom is available as a capsule or extract.
Several studies suggest that Reishi has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. For example, a study in Nature (2020) indicated that Reishi may protect against stress-related cell damage, while a review on PubMed (2018) pointed to a regulatory effect on the immune system. Important to mention: much of this research has been done on animals or in vitro (in test tubes), so the effects on humans are not yet fully proven.
Lemon balm is related to mint. It is one of many herbs that can help with inner peace. It has a mild calming effect and can be used for nervousness, anxiety and restlessness. The smell and taste alone can have a positive impact on your mood. Lemon balm is an herb you can put in a pot or in the garden, and it can be drunk as a tea.
Ashwagandha is also an adaptogenic herb that has a long history. In India, it is one of the most important herbs in Ayurveda that is valued for its ability to support the body in times of stress.
Although ashwagandha helps lower elevated cortisol levels in some studies, these effects are not equally strong or positive in everyone. In addition, cortisol fluctuates naturally, and prolonged lowering is not always desirable. Consultation with a physician is advisable.
Research from 2021 suggests that ashwagandha may help regulate cortisol levels, help reduce inflammation and repair oxidative damage. If you take it before bed, it can also promote a good night’s sleep.
The study, published on NIH, was a review of 7 different studies that aimed to determine how effective ashwagandha is for stress and anxiety. A total of 491 people participated in these surveys. They used ashwagandha or a placebo for 6 to 8 weeks. Overall, this herb was found to help significantly lower stress and anxiety, was effective for insomnia and helped lower cortisol levels, compared to a placebo.
It is recommended that ashwagandha not be used for more than 3 months, as it is not yet clear whether it is safe in the long term. Ashwagandha can cause side effects such as drowsiness, diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal pain. And even though it is rare, there have been a number of cases of liver damage associated with ashwagandha supplements. So be careful and seek advice from your doctor before taking this supplement.
CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. So it is not actually an herb, but is derived from a plant. It has no mind-altering properties, but can certainly be helpful with stress. CBD has calming properties and can help reduce The Fight or Flight response. As you can see, there are many choices if you are looking for herbs for more inner peace. Don’t keep running with stress, which makes you feel restless and sleep poorly. Take advantage of what nature has to offer you.
Be careful with supplements and stick to recommended dosages. Natural supplements can also cause side effects or affect the effect of medications you are already taking. Therefore, seek the advice of your doctor before taking any supplement.
Of course, if you suffer from stress, it is also important to devote time and attention to other things that can help you cope better with stress, such as a healthy diet, a good night’s sleep, time for relaxation and adequate exercise. Take care of yourself in times of stress and choose the support that suits you.
Valid from March 20 to 31, 2025
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