by Dr. Isaac Eliaz, M.D., MS., L.Ac.
When it comes to stress relief, most of us need a little help. Whether you practice daily meditation, take brisk walks or engage in a friendly chat, there are many forms of relief that don’t require a pharmaceutical drug or a trip to a psychiatrist’s office. However, many anxiety-reducing treatments, both conventional and alternative, can make you feel drowsy and even fatigued. The following suggestions are natural therapies that can help keep you focused and energized while encouraging you let go of the stresses that commonly overwhelm you mentally, physically and emotionally. These options can help improve your mood, relieve anxiety and boost immunity while keeping your mind alert and your energy stable throughout the day.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a plant has been used traditionally throughout the world as an herbal remedy to treat inflammation, fight infection, enhance immunity, improve memory, and promote overall well being. Ashwagandha is one of the most highly regarded and commonly used adaptogens by Ayurvedic healers. Adaptogens are a special class of botanicals that help to balance your system for optimal energy during stressful periods. Ashwaganda helps the body to resist stress and maintain vital mental and physical energy throughout the day, while promoting restful sleep at night. Its ability to reduce anxiety, ease restlessness and stabilize moods is highly valued by many herbalists.
Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Holy basil is an herb native to India, where it is known as Tulsi, and has been shown to decrease the stress hormone cortisol. Studies have shown that high levels of cortisol cause the mind and body to put rest and repair operations on hold, ultimately contributing to long term wear and tear and a variety of stress-related illnesses. Holy basil also operates as an adaptogen, naturally improving the body’s response to physical and emotional stress during periods of high anxiety and physical exhaustion. Taking a holy basil herbal supplement or drinking Tulsi tea can help stabilize the brain’s serotonin and dopamine levels to calm and relax you without making you feel drowsy. Holy Basil also helps to balance blood sugar and cholesterol as well as providing a rich source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
To continue reading, check out Dr. Eliaz’s 5 Natural Ways to Boost Energy.
Dr. Isaac Eliaz, M.D., MS., L.Ac., has been a pioneer in integrative medicine since the early 1980s.  He is Director of Amitabha Medical Clinic and Healing Center in Sebastopol, CA, where he and his team of integrative practitioners treat cancer and other chronically ill patients using a wide range of cutting edge and traditional therapies drawn from diverse medical systems.
