Many issues, such as stress, lack of sleep, or anxiety, can affect
mental health in a negative way. Rather than run to a doctor for a
prescription, many people prefer a more natural solution, to help to restore their moods and brain
functions.
The following plants may be just what they need, without
the negative side effects of pharmaceutical drugs.
St. John’s Wort
Though regulated in
the United States as a dietary supplement, St. John’s Wort has been used to
treat insomnia, anxiety, and gastritis. It is also quite helpful to those
suffering from depression. The only side effect experienced by all users is an
increased sensitivity to direct sunlight.
Mulungu Bark
Mulungu can improve a
person’s mood, calm their nerves, or help them sleep. It contains Flavonoids,
which are antioxidants that support both brain and cardiovascular health. One
of the active alkaloids in mulungu is Erythravine, which aids in brain
function, as well as lowering anxiety.
Zizyphus Jujube
A better night’s sleep is one of the main reasons to use this
herb. It has showed sedative effects and may help with relaxation, which is due
to the saponins in the plant. Sleeping better can also help to improve mental health.
Bacopa
Bacopa has been used
to increase memory, as well as aiding with cognitive function. It has also been
found to decrease cortisol in the body, which lowers a person’s stress levels.
Research has also found that bacopa may actually keep brain cells healthy, and
protects against Alzheimer’s and other diseases that affect aging adults.
Rhodiola Rosea
This herb contains
Salidroside, which is a known antioxidant that can help to protect cells from
damage. Also found in Rhodiola is Rosin, which may reduce neural cell
inflammation, decreasing the likelihood of neurotoxicity. Together, these two
compounds can lessen stress and fatigue, and help to improve a person’s mood.
Mucuna Pruriens
Mucuna has the ability
to increase dopamine in the body, thanks to the L. Dopa it contains. This
increase could improve the functions of the brain, as well as helping users
retain their memories. It also contains antioxidants which can help ease
inflammation.
Passionflower
This traditional herb
has been used as a sedative for many years. Passionflower can also help to
reduce anxiety, which can have ruin a night’s sleep. This leads to lowered
mental health and memory issues, which is why a restful night of sleep is so
important.
Skullcap
The benefits of
skullcap are many, including mood improvement, lowered stress, calmer nerves,
and a better night’s sleep. This North American plant also contains
antioxidants which are known to provide substantial protection against
inflammation of the brain.
Valerian
Found in Europe and
certain areas of Asia, Valerian is known for its use as a sedative. It is used
to treat those suffering from anxiety, restlessness, and other sleep related
disturbances. Another use for “God’s Valium”, as it’s also known, is to relax
muscles.
Kava Kava
With origins in the
South Pacific Islands, this herb has been traditionally used to relieve
anxiety, stress, and to help with insomnia. This is due to the kavalactones.
This compound performs as well as prescription drugs with the same purpose, but
without the side effects. This means no alteration of cognitive abilities,
including mental clarity and alertness. It is also not a narcotic or an opiate,
which means no chance of addiction.
Sources:
naturalnews
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