Stress can have a significant impact on both the mind and body. It is a natural response to challenging situations, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to several health problems.
Chronic stress can develop into anxiety, depression, digestive issues, headaches, and weaken the immune system.
If you are looking to take a proactive approach in managing stress before it starts to affect your health, there are a few steps you can take. One is finding the right herbal tea to help reduce the impact of chronic stress on your mind and body.
What impact does stress have on your mind and body?
There is ample research that indicates prolonged stress has significantly negative effects on the mind and body. While some stress in life is good for you as it helps to motivate you or get you out of dangerous situations, the wrong kind of stress can really do damage.
Some people experience an upset tummy or headaches. For others it can weaken your immune system, decrease cognitive function, or induce chronic intestinal issues. It is the prolonged exposure to stress and the continual release of cortisol that can have a damaging impact on the mind and body.
Herbal Tea and Stress Management
One of the most effective ways to manage stress without pharmaceuticals is to incorporate herbal teas into your daily routine. There are many different herbs that are known to have a calming effect on the mind and body, and depending on your choice, you can either center yourself in the middle of the day or get a deep relaxing sleep at night.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a popular herb that has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. It contains compounds that have a calming effect on the nervous system and can help improve sleep quality. Drinking chamomile tea before bed can help you unwind and get a better night's sleep, which can help reduce stress levels. It does have a slight sedative effect so choose wisely when you use it.
Lavender
Lavender is another herb that is known for its calming properties. It can help alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation. Drinking lavender tea can help you relax and reduce stress levels. It's also a great way to wind down before bed, as it can help improve sleep quality.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is an herb that is often used to reduce stress and promote relaxation. It has a mild sedative effect that can help calm the nervous system and improve mood. Drinking lemon balm tea can help you feel more relaxed and reduce stress levels.
Holy Basil
Holy basil, also known as tulsi, is an herb that has been used for centuries to reduce stress and anxiety. It contains compounds that have a calming effect on the nervous system and can help improve mood. Drinking holy basil tea can help reduce stress levels and promote mental and physical wellness.
Ashwagandha
Research indicates that Ashwagandha is a powerful support in combating depression and anxiety. Not to mention it aids the body’s response to stress and reduces cortisol levels. Compared to the use of a placebo, patients reported a significant reduction in stress. Better yet - It’s subtle and yummy.
Passionflower
Passionflower is a natural plant that has been found to provide numerous benefits for anxiety and overall mental health. Its unique compounds can help to reduce feelings of nervousness and promote a sense of calm and relaxation. Many pharmacological investigations confirm the sedative effects of Passiflorae herba.
Rooibos
This caffeine free shrub is a mighty force with the high levels of antioxidants, 5 times more than green tea - present from its polyphenols. Research indicated it helps support the body’s overall balance by comparing the negative impact of anxiety and stress. It’s kind of like our superhero herb we love.
Hibiscus
A growing body of evidence indicates the flavonoids and anthocyanins in this traditional medicinal flower have promising effects on overall health. Research suggests this pretty flower can help reduce anxiety and depression symptoms. Make a glass when you are ready for a calming and relaxing support for your tea ritual.
Reishi Mushroom
Minimize the impact on our mind and body by using this medicinal adaptogenic herb to support overall health. Reishi specifically supports the adrenal system in navigating the effects of long-term stress and anxiety on the body.
Incorporating herbal teas into your daily routine is a simple and effective way to manage stress and promote overall wellness. These herbs can help alleviate the symptoms of stress, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation.
Reach Out For Help
In all health situations, if you are experiencing high volumes of stress that are manifesting in health conditions, see a physician or a mental health professional. Your life matters and so does your health.
We wish you the best on your journey to health and wellness.
Precaution
When drinking herbal tea for anxiety or depression, it's important to remember that it's not a substitute for professional help. If you're struggling with mental health issues, it's important to seek help from a qualified healthcare provider. Herbal tea can be a supportive addition to your treatment plan, but it's not a replacement for professional care.
Citations
- Harvard Health (2): Stress affects not only memory and many other brain functions, like mood and anxiety, but also promotes inflammation, which adversely affects heart health.
- Stress.org (3): Studies have linked stress to poor immune system function, in part because when you’re stressed, your body changes the way it secretes hormones that help the immune system.
- American Psychological Association (4): Stress can cause pain, bloating, nausea, and other stomach discomfort felt more easily. Vomiting may occur if the stress is severe enough.
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (5): Mindfulness-based meditation has positive effects on depression, and its effects can last for six months or more.
- Mayo Clinic (6): Stress symptoms can affect your body, your thoughts and feelings, and your behavior. Being able to recognize common stress symptoms can help you manage them.
- The Botanical Institute (2): Ashwagandha may be effective in regulating stress and decreasing levels of cortisol in the body. Kava-kava may work to reduce stress and anxiety levels.
- Camille Styles (3): Lemon balm tea works to reduce the stress hormone cortisol and doesn’t cause drowsiness. It can also boost alertness and concentration.