Find Your Calm: Essential Stress-Relief Supplements

Everyone experiences stressors in life, which are most often linked to job pressure, money, health, or relationships. Stress can be acute or chronic and result in fatigue, headaches, disruptive gut health, irritability, nervousness, or anger.  

However, suppose you prefer exploring natural remedies to combat stress before turning to medicated avenues. In that case, there are many effective ways to combat stress, including exercise, healthy sleeping habits, a nutrient-dense diet, and natural stress-relief supplements purchased through accredited and trusted companies like Vida Glow. 

It is important to remember that supplements are not magic pills that will instantly cure your stress and eliminate your symptoms. Should you require more intense help, consult with your healthcare professional immediately to explore other options like medication and mental health care. 

Magnesium

Magnesium is an incredibly beneficial mineral that the body uses to regulate a large number of different processes throughout the body, including the functioning of nerves and muscles and the synthesizing of protein and bone. 

While research is minimal, studies have suggested that magnesium can be helpful for those who suffer from mild anxiety, and including magnesium supplements in your diet can improve stress and anxiety levels. Because some types of medication can negatively interact with magnesium supplements, it is essential to consult your healthcare professional before taking any. 

Melatonin

While many people are familiar with melatonin gummies and supplements, Melatonin is a hormone produced in the pineal gland. It is released in dark environments to help your internal clock stay on track and prepare your body and mind for sleep. 

Melatonin is most known for helping people get to sleep at night, but it has also been found to lower anxiety levels. Past trials evaluated the effects of melatonin on the stress levels of people who were preparing to undergo surgery. Melatonin is generally safe to take in appropriate amounts, but it may not be an effective solution for everyone. 

Rhodiola

Rhodiola, also known as golden root or Arctic root, typically grows along the frigid mountain ranges of Europe and Asia as well as in the Arctic. In a review released in January 2018, Rhodiola extract was found to be a somewhat effective treatment option for stress symptoms, helping to prevent chronic stress and its negative side effects. 

Rhodiola has been safely used in studies spanning six to twelve weeks, but little is known of its effects beyond three months. It can potentially cause side effects like dry mouth, dizziness, or excessive saliva. 

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, also commonly known as winter cherry or Indian ginseng, has been an integral part of Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. This plant is classified as an adaptogen, which is traditionally believed to resist disease and regulate the effects of stress on the body. 

Some studies have found Ashwagandha to be a promising natural remedy for lowering stress and anxiety levels, while a selection of research suggests it may be useful for improving sleep quality. It is important to note that ashwagandha could potentially lower blood sugar and blood pressure levels and should not be used in combination with diabetes or blood pressure medication. 

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a lemon-scented herb that was originally found in Europe during the Middle Ages but is now cultivated around the world. Traditionally, it was used as a calming agent and mild sedative, but it is now being researched to explore its potential anti-inflammatory properties and is generally recognized by the FDA. 

According to a study published in 2019, lemon balm may help ease anxiety and improve sleep health. Additional studies documenting its effect on healthy but stressed young adults reported improvements in mood in both studies. People who take sedatives, HIV medications, or thyroid medication should consult their general practitioner, as lemon balm may interact with these types of medications. 

L-Theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid typically found in green tea. It is largely believed to have a calming effect, among other natural health benefits. Various research studies have explored L-theanine's anti-stress qualities, with some suggesting it can help lower stress and improve memory and verbal ability. 

Research surrounding the safety of consuming L-theanine is somewhat lacking. However, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center states that consuming large quantities of green tea can result in adverse side effects due to the caffeine content. Over-caffeinating can lead to headaches, insomnia, dehydration, dizziness, and an elevated heart rate. 

Valerian

Valerian, also commonly known as garden heliotrope or all-heal, is an herb plant that grows throughout Europe, Asia, and North America. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, it is well-known for its calming effects. It is often used to combat anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions like depression. 

In a review of 100 studies published in 2018, evidence pointed to valerian root possessing soothing effects for people with anxiety disorders. The review also highlighted the possibility of the herb working as a sleep aid, with its benefits found to be comparable to medication used to treat anxiety and insomnia. 

Little is known regarding the safety of using valerian in large quantities over long periods of time. However, research suggests it may have sleep-inducing side effects and should not be taken alongside alcohol or sedatives. Additionally, it may cause headaches, upset stomach, uneasiness, heart disturbances, and excitability.