Natural Treatment for Stress

Even though we cannot always remove the cause of stress easily, there are natural solutions to help. Our body and mind responds well to nutritional support, herbal medicine, time to relax, good nutrition and a readiness to heal. Afterwards, it is essential to find ways to maintain balance in our busy lives - whether it is regular yoga classes, time out every day for a walk, or learning breathing exercises to help maintain calm under stressful circumstances.

Recommended Naturopathic Testing

A salivary test to assess cortisol and DHEA production throughout the day can provide valuable information on the effects of stress on our bodies.

Diet and Stress

• Avoid caffeine in tea and coffee (green tea is OK if low in caffeine). You may think a 'caffeine' fix is the only way to get you through, however too much caffeine can also take its toll on our adrenal glands.

• Avoid sugary food such as sweets, cakes, biscuits, soft drinks and foods with sugar in the top five ingredients.

• Avoid fatty foods which can lead to declining energy levels.

• Avoid ready-made meals and takeaway fried food.

• Aim for a balanced diet to ensure you are getting enough vitamins and minerals i.e. a balance of low GI complex carbohydrates, protein and good fats.

• Eat regularly to avoid blood sugar ‘slumps’.

• Watch your wine, beer and spirits intakes. A maximum of one to two units a day may be consumed safely but aim for at least two to three alcohol-free days a week. In many cases, total avoidance is recommended.

Supplements for Stress

• B vitamins are of benefit in times of stress and help with nervous system activity and provide energy. Specific B vitamins used in the stress response include B2, B5 and B6.

• Vitamin C is one of the first nutrients used in the stress response, and is an important vitamin for immunity, skin health and anti-ageing.

• Magnesium and potassium are minerals essential for adrenal gland functioning and nervous system activity. A deficiency of magnesium reduces our coping mechanisms for stress.

NB. For best results, try these recommended supplements for a period of three months. These supplements are best taken under the care and guidance of your healthcare practitioner.

Herbs for Stress

• Chamomile, hops, skullcap, lavender, lemon balm, oats, passionflower and valerian calm the nervous system.

• Licorice, Withania, Rhodiola, Siberian Ginseng and Astragalus support the adrenal glands, nervous system and immune system.

• St Johns Wort can improve symptoms of anxiety and mild depression.

NB. You should not take any of the above herbs if you are taking the oral contraceptive pill, fertility drugs, HRT or any other hormonal treatment or other medication unless they are recommended by a registered, experienced practitioner.

For a personalised appointment and prescription for stress problems, click here to make a booking for phone and online consultations.

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