DE-STRESSING HERBS

CHAMOMILE.
is most known as a tea with a calming effect. It also a digestive aid, tranquilizer and immuno-stimulant. It helps with mild sleep disorder and calms a nervous stomach. After steeping tea bags in hot water, remove the tea bags and set them aside so you can put them on your eyes before you go to bed. They are good for helping to reduce puffiness around the eyes.

LEMON or calamansi.
The fragrance of citrus fruits provide an instant pick-me-up and stimulates the senses. This helps reduce tension and relieves some body aches and pains by helping to relax your muscles. You can grate the peel of the fruit to release the fragrance or better yet eat the fruit and get a load of fiber and vitamins at the same time.

GINSENG.
is usually used to "restore" the nervous system after a prolonged illness or injury. In the case of occasional stress, ginseng helps you cope either by sedating or stimulating your central nervous system, according to your body's needs - therefore "balancing" you out. Studies have shown that ginseng also helps increase your brain's utilization of amino acids, which is important because when you are under stress, your body uses more protein (which is composed of amino acids) than usual.

ROSEMARY.
relaxes the muscles in the body. Your muscles tense up when you're stressed. On the other hand when your muscles are relaxed, you get better blood flow into the brain, helping you think more clearly. Fresh and dried rosemary leaves are used frequently in traditional mediteranean cuisine. Sprinkle liberally when cooking so you'll get a good meal and stress relief too.

LAVENDER.
can be used as a tea or an ingredient in cooking or as an essential oil. It is effective in reducing irritability and anxiety and promoting relaxation and calmness. It is also a powerful anti-bacterial agent, and can work to balance hormones and stimulate the immune system. When you can not sleep because of stress, try putting a few drops of lavender on your pillows at bedtime. You can also make your own lavender room spray by combining 20 drops of lavender, a tablespoon of vodka, and water in a 4 ounce spray bottle. Spray the room when you are starting to feel nervous or stressed.

ST. JOHN'S WART.
is commonly used in countries with winter season to help combat "seasonal depression" when people don't get as much sun during that time of the year. This is available in all health stores in capsule form. It promotes sense of well-being.

BE aware, when choosing an herb or oil, first try to figure out if the stress you are experiencing has left you either drained and tired or agitated and tense. Some herbs and oils help you relax while others help invigorate you. As with everything in life, you should also use herbs and oils in moderation. If you really are feeling stressed all the time, you should consider other methods of stress-relief, including going to a health professional, if needed.