Topic: Stress
Two Proven Herbal Supplements For Stress And
Anxiety
Written by: Edward Sample
The fast-paced nature of modern life is characterized by
constant demands and personal challenges. As we try to earn a
living or take care of a family, the resulting stress can often
feel insurmountable. While many can hide their feelings from
family and co-workers, this stress is often characterized by an
ongoing sense of anxiety and inability to sleep. Then, as we get
tired or more anxious, our ability to cope diminishes.
Most of us don't realize there is a problem until relationships
begin to suffer or performance at work slips. At this point,
many turn to either alcohol or prescription drugs as a way to
escape from the stress. Alternatives to dealing with this
stress and anxiety in a productive way are often difficult to
consider in the midst of such crisis. Unfortunately,
self-medicating often makes the problem worse and may become
addictive. 
Fortunately, there are a variety of natural methods for
addressing the ongoing challenges of life. The first step
essential to reducing stress and anxiety is to take a hard look
at what is causing the angst. The issue might be around life at
work, or maybe a personal relationship is suffering. Once
you've identified the root cause, then take a hard look at
which obligations are really essential versus those that you
may perceive to be important. Perhaps your social schedule is
too intense or too much time is spent at the office. Even after
you've completed a fair life evaluation, it is often tough to
implement the changes you know are necessary. This is where
herbal supplements for stress and anxiety can play a role.
Natural herbal supplements can help you relax or deal with
social anxiety without the harsh and unwanted side effects
associated with alcohol or drugs. In general, they can enhance
your ability to relax or get the sleep essential to making real
change. However, few know where to start or which supplements
actually work. Our brains produce a variety of hormones and
chemicals in order to regulate essential functions such as
sleep and relaxation. This brings us to the role of 5-HTP and
Melatonin - two essential herbal supplements for stress and
anxiety.
5-HTP
While the processes are complex, 5-HTP or 5-hydroxytryptophan
is an amino acid required for the production of serotonin.
Studies have shown that low levels of serotonin can lead to
depression, insomnia, irritability and anxiety. Therefore,
supplementing with 5-HTP can help alleviate these symptoms and
is particularly useful as a holistic treatment for stress. If
you are debating the effectiveness of herbal supplements vs.
prescription drugs, consider that 5HTP works in a manner
similar to SSRI's. (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)
Common prescription SSRI's and anti anxiety disorder
medications include drugs like Zoloft and Prozac. In fact, one
study demonstrated that 5-HTP was as effective in treating
anxiety and depression as the SSRI Fluvoxamine. As an added
bonus, 5HTP has been shown to help reduce the pain associated
with fibromyalgia and migraine headaches. Finally, given its
ability to help produce serotonin, which make the body feel
full and content, 5-HTP is often used as a weight loss
supplement. Also, 5-HTP is a precursor, or is involved in the
natural production of melatonin.
Melatonin
Melatonin, a hormone produced in the brain, is an important
part of the cycle of sleeping and waking up. In this role,
Melatonin produces the feeling of sleepiness that sets upon us
when night falls. The reason that we normally fall asleep is
due to the timing of our circadian rhythms, or biological
processes that regulate bodily function. Early in the evening,
the pineal gland begins to secrete melatonin with its peak
production hitting half way through the night. Then, it begins
to taper off towards morning. Taking melatonin as a supplement
before bedtime accelerates natural production so that this peak
is reached earlier. This helps those with insomnia fall asleep
and stay asleep. In several properly documented studies,
melatonin was given to test subjects as an alternative to a
class of sedatives called benzodiazepines. Common prescription
drug brands in this group are Xanax, Tafil, Ativan, and Valium
– many of which can become addictive. In several cases, the
participants using melatonin were able to stop taking the drugs
while still maintaining healthy sleep habits. This makes a
powerful case for herbal supplements vs. prescription drugs.
These same studies discovered that those with a history of
seizures experienced more frequent incidents when taking
melatonin. As such, those who have ever had seizures should not
take this supplement. Also, melatonin is best used when a full
night's rest can be enjoyed. Those who cannot enjoy a full
night's sleep should not take this supplement because it is so
effective and will cause drowsiness.
Remember that melatonin and 5-HTP should be used in conjunction
with a healthy diet, exercise and with the knowledge of your
doctor. In addition, you should not mix supplements with each
other or prescription drugs. Even thought the supplements we've
discussed are natural alternatives to medication for anxiety
disorders, they are very effective and should be taken in the
proper dosages.
Everyone wants to be able to balance life's obligations. This
is entirely possible while also taking care of personal
well-being and happiness. Leading a productive existence and a
low-stress life are actually complimentary and can be a reality
for anyone. If you can first identify the aspects of life that
are causing you emotional discomfort, then you can begin to
make meaningful changes. Getting a full night of sleep or
reducing the amount of stress you feel in a given situation may
be the first step you take. It is very possible that one of
these herbal supplements for stress and anxiety will help.
Don't delay another day - you owe it to yourself to live the
best life you can.
About The Author: Want to learn more about the role of other
Natural Herbs for Anxiety? Visit us at
http://www.naturalfitsupplements.com/
