Feeling frazzled?
Editor Jane Garton shares her top energising herbs to help to restore your va va voom!
Feeling stressed is more common than you might think and it’s usually for one of the following reasons: work pressure, low mood, lack of energy and mental exhaustion. But the good news is there are several herbal remedies that will help to relax you and put the spring back in your step, as well as refuel your energy tank before the parties start to roll.
OVERWORKED? TRY RHODIOLA
Sometimes called ‘golden root’, rhodiola is thought to boost energy and alertness to help concentration and fight stress and fatigue. As with many herbs, no single compound seems to be responsible for rhodiola’s benefits, but research indicates that chemical ingredients known as rosavins are mainly responsible. It appears that these affect the function of neurotransmitters – the brain chemicals that transport messages between nerves and help to regulate mood and other brain functions.
NO ENERGY? TRY GUARANA
Looking for an instant lift? The natural energiser guarana could revive your get-up- and-go in next to no time. Derived from a seed from a fruit native to the Amazon rainforest, it can help you to feel more alert as well as reducing mental fatigue.
DOWN IN THE DUMPS? TRY ST. JOHN’S WORT
Sometimes dubbed ‘the sunshine herb’, this may help to bring back the smile to your face. It is not known exactly how St John’s wort works, but it is thought that the active ingredient hypericin works by prolonging the action of the brain neurotransmitter serotonin – a deficiency of which can trigger depression. If you are taking any prescribed medicines, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking St John’s wort.
TOO TIRED TO THINK? TRY GINKGO
This is the one to go for to help bring life back to a weary mind as well as to aid poor concentration. Ginkgo contains a number of compounds which together help to dilate blood vessels and increase blood circulation. These actions encourage blood flow to the brain, which can help it to function at its optimum level.
CAN’T GET GOING? TRY PEPPERMINT
For an instant lift and stress relief, try a cup of mint tea. Alternatively, a peppermint footbath can be an instant winner. Just add four drops of essential oil of peppermint to a bowl of cool water. Dip your feet in and within a couple of minutes you should start to feel more relaxed.
