It is said that some amount of stress is good and everyone faces it quite often in their lives. However, chronic stress can negatively impact not just our minds, but physical health as well. Therefore, it becomes essential to keep a check on it. Dr. Rajyalakshmi Madhavam, Professor at AMD Ayurvedic Medical College, Hyderabad says, “chronic stress leads to inflammation and increases free radicals in our body, which can be harmful. Stress can be categorized as- Positive stress and Negative stress. While the positive stress increases the concentration of physical and mental activities and pushes us towards our target, negative stress decreases the concentration and acts in a reverse manner.”
Stress can lead to:
- Headaches
- Anxiety
- Mood swings and frustration
- High blood pressure
- Insomnia
- Upset stomach, etc.
Therefore, here are some of the Ayurvedic herbs as explained by Dr. Rajyalakshmi, that will help to de-stress.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha helps in lowering the cortisol or the stress hormone levels in the blood
Brahmi
This herb improves the secretion of serotonin, a relaxation hormone, which helps in lowering the stress level
Tulsi/Basil
The holy herb, Tulsi is an excellent source of antioxidants. It helps in fighting with the free radicals in the body, produced when the stress levels are high.
Vacha
Its properties help in lowering the cortisol levels in the body. It also creates an equilibrium in the brain.
Jatamansi
It improves the quality of sleep in a person, which in-turn lowes the stress levels as well
Terminalia arjuna (Arjuna)
Bhringraj
Shankhpushpi
Yashtimadhu
Guduchi
Apart from this, our expert suggests that:
- A person should follow a healthy diet. They can include almonds and other dry fruits, green tea which is full of antioxidants and even brown rice works wonders in stress
- Practice yoga, meditation, and pranayama every day
- Maintain proper sleep hygiene
- Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, caffeine, and any other body stimulants
- Music or sound therapy can also be considered
“In Ayurveda, there are two techniques- Shirodhara (pouring of medicated oil on forehead) and Shirobasti (pouring of oil on the head and allowing it to remain there for some time)” she adds.
Although these herbs and the latter mentioned practices may be very beneficial to deal with stress, they should be taken or practiced under medical supervision only. You can consult a doctor to understand the proper dosage and methods. Also, practicing a healthy lifestyle and ensuring a balanced meal will keep away stress.
