We all live lives that are crammed with meetings, deadlines, and tons of stuff that can leave us stressed, anxious, and frazzled at the end of the day.  Stress and anxiety can ruin our health.  It affects our sleep, our energy, makes us look and feel older, and can even lead to various diseases and disorders.  That's why it's important to take time out of our hectic day to relax.  One of the best ways to relieve the stress and anxiety is with natural remedies.  When used correctly, natural remedies can help you feel calm and relaxed.  There are tons of remedies for stress and anxiety out there.  The following are are some of the most effective:

Kava kava.  This herb has been used for stress relief and relaxation, easing anxiety, and curing insomnia.  The effects are considered to be similar to the prescription drug valium, but generally without the "mental fog" feeling.  It is available in capsule, beverage, tablet, tincture, and extract form.  Since the effects are so potent, you need to monitor its effect on you and should be careful what you do after taking it.  Possible side effects include a potential for severe liver damage, blurred vision, nausea, loss of appetite, and shortness of breath.  It can also negatively interact with any medication you may be on, so consult your physician before adding kava to your self-care regimen.

Lavender.  Many people rely on lavender and other essential oils as a natural remedy to soothe crying, fussy babies.  These oils have the same calming effect on adults as well.  You can use it in the same way you would use other essential oils such as in a bath or in a sachet bag or pillow.  There is rarely any bad side effects when using essential oils as a natural remedy, other than a possible allergic reaction to the oil or its scent.

Valerian.  Sometimes referred to as "herbal Valium," this natural remedy is widely used to relieve anxiety and insomnia.  It calms the nervous system, making you feel calm and relaxed instead of stressed.  In addition, since it helps you get a great night's sleep, you'll feel more refreshed and ready to face the next day.  Available in capsule, tincture, liquid, extract, crude herb, and tea forms, there is no standard dose of valerian.  Possible side effects through prolonged use include irregular heartbeat, headache, uneasiness, restlessness and insomnia.  Like kava kava, this natural remedy can negatively interact with any medication you may be taking, so consult your physician before adding valerian to your regimen.

Tryptophan/5-HTP.  Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that the body uses to increase serotonin levels and manufacture niacin.  5-HTP is a close "cousin" to the amino acid and also increases the production of serotonin.  Among other things, serotonin helps ease depression, anxiety, and the sensation of pain.  Available in supplement form, there is no standard dose for treatment of anxiety with tryptophan/5-HTP.  Possible side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and breathing difficulties.  It may also negatively interact with medication you may be taking, so please consult your physician before adding tryptophan/5-HTP to your regimen.

With many prescriptions and over the counter medications, you can see an effect almost immediately.  However, most natural remedies require longer periods of time to work before the full effect of the treatment is evident.  If taken properly and with patience, these natural remedies can provide a safe and effective alternative to conventional drugs with fewer side effects.  You should also talk to your doctor before starting any natural remedy supplement because they may have drug interactions.

Hopefully one or more of these remedies will relieve the stress and anxiety created by a busy life and help you lead a more relaxing and peaceful one.

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