To manage stress levels, we can return to our roots - literally. Long before drugstores, over-the-counter medications, and prescriptions, people turned to the natural world for healing remedies. These time-tested solutions are just as effective today. Here are some of the best natural, plant-based approaches to stress management
Cannabidiol
Cannabidiol, fondly known as CBD, is one of the chemical compounds (cannabinoids) found in the hemp plant. CBD is not psychoactive so it doesn’t cause you to feel “high.” It does have the ability to reduce the negative impacts of stress in your body. It helps support the endocannabinoid system - a communication system that controls and regulates functions from digestion to mood. It also helps prevent the damaging effects of long-term stress, by reducing inflammation and supporting your immune system. To make sure your body is actually getting CBD into your system, try NextEvo Naturals products, which have clinically proven 4x better absorption than oil-based tinctures.
Ashwagandha
The ancient adaptogen Ashwagandha, from the Indian Winter Cherry plant, counteracts stress at its source - cortisol. Cortisol is a “stress hormone” that the human body produces in response to stress. In some early studies, people who took Ashwagandha for 8 weeks had reduced cortisol levels as compared to people who took a placebo. Ashwagandha is also known for its brain-boosting and immune-supporting functions.Turmeric
The warming spice in your favorite Indian dishes has significant health benefits as well. Turmeric contains circumin, a bioactive compound that has been proven** to help the body manage anxiety and stress-related mental health. Plus, its anti-inflammatory properties can help prevent stress from turning into longer-term issues.Lemon Balm
The lemon balm herb is a perennial plant in the mint family. Its usage dates back thousands of years, when it was used to reduce stress and anxiety, regulate sleep, and provide digestive support. More recently, studies* have shown that lemon balm does have anti-stress effects, including improved mood and better cognitive performance.St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort is a flowering plant that has been used for medicinal purposes dating back to the ancient Greeks. It’s been studied for its positive effects in treating stress-related memory loss and even depression. Warning: it’s so powerful that it can interact with and weaken the efficacy of many medications. Make sure to speak to a doctor before trying it on your own. For an alternative to St. John’s Wort with fewer concerns on side effects, try NextEvo Naturals Triple Action Sleep. It contains controlled-release melatonin, which is similar to St. John’s Wort, and the extra rest is a terrific natural solution for beating stress.Keep in mind, none of these natural remedies are a cure-all, nor will they magically make serious conditions disappear. Still, when taken as part of an overall wellness routine for managing stress - including adequate sleep, plenty of fresh water, regular exercise, and clean eating - they can contribute to next level wellness.
*https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4245564/
**https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23832433/
