Stress and anxiety

Both the causes and symptoms of stress, which can lead on to anxiety are unique to us as individuals. Sources of stress may be relationship, work, health or be financially based for example. Symptoms of on-going stress, known as anxiety, can lead for instance, to extreme fatigue, high blood pressure, poor digestion, memory loss, irritable bowel syndrome and insomnia. Seeking help to identify and deal with the source of stress, is an important step in the healing process and so too, is helping our bodies deal with the consequences.

From a nutritional point of view, limiting stimulants such as caffeine found in coffee, black and green tea, cola drinks and dark chocolate can be helpful. Eating regular meals based on a lean source of protein, vegetables and wholegrain carbohydrates and strictly limiting refined and processed foods is a way of optimising vital vitamins and minerals needed for nerve health and to support glands that produce stress hormones.

Medical herbalists meanwhile turn to natural remedies that include extracts of Ashwagandha, to help reduce anxiety as well as rhodiola, which contains active compounds believed to combat mental exhaustion that can accompany anxiety. Holy basil is another herbalist's favourite. Also known as tulsi, extracts of Holy basil are prescribed to help reduce blood pressure and balance blood sugars while oats are another popular herbalist 'go-to’ remedy, with their well-known properties of being a calming nerve tonic.

Written by: Amanda Ursell BSc Nutrition Registered Nutritionist AFN PG Dip Dietetics, Associateship King's College (AKC)

Twitter: @AmandaUrsell Web: amandaursell.com

#stressrelief #anxiety #natural #herbs #naturalhealing #naturalremedies #ashwagandha #rhodiola #holybasil #stress #holistichealing #holistic #houseofholisticwellness #healthandwellness #selfcare