The term stress is very broad and refers to any reaction to a physical, mental, or emotional stimulus that upsets the body's natural balance. Suffering stress is and always has been a necessary evil if you want to survive. The better you tolerate stress the more you will thrive.  And the more you are able to tolerate stress the better mom you will make.

 

As stress does affect many organs and systems there are quite a few herbs that can be taken to help you deal with it. Also each individual is affected by stress in their own way depending on where they have a weak disposition in their body. For instance some people are more likely to develop a stomachache and others are more likely to become anxious or dissociated when under stress.

 

The following herbs may help you deal with stress –

 

·        Bilberry – Helps prevents the destruction, mutation and premature death of cells

·        Catnip – Relieves stress and promotes sleepiness

·        Chamomile – A general relaxant that is a good nerve tonic, is soothing to the digestive tract and is a pleasant sleep aid.

·        Dong Quai – Supports the kidney and adrenal glands, which are always adversely affected by stress.

·        Ginkgo Biloba – Helps keep clarity of thought in stressful situations

·        Hops – Eases nervousness, restlessness and stress

·        Jujube Seed – Chinese herb that remedies depression

·        Kava Kava – Relaxes the mind as well as the entire body

·        Milk Thistle – Helps cleanse and protect the liver which is affected by stress

·        Passion Flower – Calming and used specifically for stress

·        Polygala root – Soothing and calming Chinese herb

·        Rehmannia – Supports the kidneys, adrenal glands and nervous system.

·        Schizandra – Supports the kidneys, adrenal glands and nervous system

·        Skullcap – Can be taken at night to promote sleep and relieve anxiety

·        Valerian – Can be taken to promote sleep and prevent panic attacks.

 

Depression is a whole body illness that has an entire host of physical symptoms that can be manifested by the mind. Symptoms include fatigue, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, headaches, backaches, digestive disorders, restlessness, irritability and feelings of inadequacy and suicide.

 

Keep in mind too that depression can also be the body's way of letting you know that you have a serious illness so be sure to see a doctor if you encounter any of these symptoms.

 

Herbs that may help depression are

 

·        Lemon Balm – May help with the digestive disorders that occur with depression

·        Ginger – Helps with depression related digestive disorders

·        Ginkgo Biloba – Helps increase circulation to the brain and may elevate mood

·        Kava Kava – A natural antidepressant that may help elevate your mood

·        Siberian Ginseng – May elevate the mood. Don't use this if you have high blood pressure!

·        St. Johnswort – A natural antidepressant that may help elevate your mood

 

Keep in mind that you should never take any of the herbs mentioned above if you are already taking a prescribed anti-depressant.