Sleep and stress issues are more prevalent than you think in today’s fast-paced world. High levels of stress and poor sleep can lead to a decline in your overall health. While you can get medications in some instances, trying out a more natural route first may be more beneficial. Read more about how these five natural nutraceuticals can help with managing stress, anxiety and give you a better night’s rest.
1. Saffron – The Mood Enhancer
Saffron is most well-known for being the world’s most expensive spice. However, it also falls into the natural nutraceuticals category for its ability to improve your mood. Key compounds within the spice, crocins and safranal, have been known to work similarly to mild antidepressants. Research has proven that saffron can:
- Boost Your Mood: Saffron can increase serotonin and dopamine levels while lowering stress hormones at the same time.
- Improve Sleep Quality: The spice can help you fall asleep faster and reduce restlessness while asleep.
2. L-theanine – The Calm Focus Booster
L-theanine is an amino acid commonly found in green tea. It fosters a state of “alert calm” in the user, meaning it increases brain activity without causing sedation. It’s perfect for daytime use when you need a moment to step away from the anxiety. Benefits of L-theanine include:
- Stress Reduction: When ingesting L-theanine, stress markers are lowered, resulting in a clear mind.
- Enhanced Sleep: The amino acid can also help with sleep onset by calming the mind without the drowsiness present in other sedation medications.
3. Lemon Balm – Nature’s Gentle Tranquilizer
Lemon balm smells delicious, but it falls into the natural nutraceuticals category due to its calming properties. This is due to the GABAergic system, which is the nervous system’s primary inhibitory system that helps calm nerve cells. Lemon balm can help you:
- Calm Anxiety: The herb inhibits the breakdown of GABA to increase the calming effects on your body.
- Improve Sleep: Studies have found that lemon balm can significantly reduce anxiety and improve sleep.
4. Holy Basil – The Sacred Adaptogen
Also known as tulasi or tulsi, holy basil is revered in Ayurvedic practices as one of the more effective natural nutraceuticals. It helps the body adapt to stress by balancing neurotransmitters. Other benefits of holy basil include:
- Stress Hormone Regulation: The plant helps modulate cortisol levels, managing stress.
- Enhanced Mental Clarity: Holy Basil enhances cognitive function and resilience in stressful situations, so your body is not as impacted.
5. Ashwagandha – The Stress Buster
Also referred to as a premier adaptogen, ashwagandha falls into the natural nutraceuticals category because it helps normalize cortisol levels and lowers anxiety. Other benefits of ashwagandha include:
- Improved Mood: By restoring healthy cortisol levels, ashwagandha leaves people with a better mood and higher energy levels.
- Better Sleep: For those struggling with sleep, ashwagandha improves sleep duration and quality without sedative effects.
Final Thoughts
Taking these five natural nutraceuticals and adding them to your daily routine can immensely help with stress levels and improve your sleep quality. Make sure to choose high-quality products and consult your primary care physician to see whether they may affect your existing medications or health conditions. Try a more natural way to improve your stress and sleep today, and enjoy feeling more like yourself.