How do natural anti-stress products work?
They reduce stress
Stress is a natural response to an unexpected event, a situation, or a particular environment.
It manifests as a feeling of powerlessness, inability, and as psychological and emotional confusion.
The primary role of a dietary supplement labeled “anti-stress” is therefore to reduce and relieve this psychological state.
For this reason, it can notably affect cortisol levels. This hormone is secreted by the adrenal glands, located above the kidneys.
It plays a role in the body’s management of stress. It sends a signal to the brain and helps the body adapt.
When cortisol levels spike, anti-stress products help regulate this production that is excessive.
They increase our natural resistance to stress
In natural health, the adaptogenic plants are among the best anti-stress remedies.
They can increase the body’s natural resistance to stressful situations. They help the body to react appropriately and to adapt.
They work on both physical stress and psychological stress, whether acute or chronic.
To do this, they support and regulate adrenal functions. They also have a balancing effect on adrenaline levels, released in cases of stress and nervousness.
This study shows the effect of adaptogenic plants on reducing stress.
They balance the nervous system
Natural anti-stress agents also have a more general effect on the nervous system. They contribute overall to balance and to mental well-being.
Thus, they bring serenity, relieve fatigue in cases of overwork and calm nervous agitation. Some also have beneficial effects on sleep disorders and/or mood.
This is notably the case for sedative plants that have a relaxing effect on the nervous system: valerian, lemon balm, chamomile…
Finally, they protect the nervous system from damage caused by free radicals: damage to nerve cells, neurodegenerative diseases…
What are the best natural anti-stress remedies?
1. Ashwagandha
A natural anti-stress par excellence, native to India, ashwagandha is an adaptogenic plant. It would therefore help the body adapt to the physical and psychological stresses to which it is exposed.
It contains withanolides, active compounds that directly influence cortisol production, which they regulate and balance.
It thus helps reduce stress but also anxiety and sleep disorders such as insomnia.
This study shows the effectiveness of ashwagandha against stress.
2. Valerian
Thanks to its relaxing effect, it restores nervous and emotional balance. It is a valuable ally for relieving stress, whether temporary or chronic.
This plant contains terpenic acids with a calming and sedative effect. It also contains gamma-aminobutyric acid or GABA, a neurotransmitter that calms mental agitation and maintains the balance of the nervous system.
This study shows the beneficial effects of valerian on stress and related sleep disorders.
3. CBD oil
The CBD oil or « cannabidiol oil » is extracted from hemp. Devoid of psychoactive substances, it has anti-stress potential.
Its cannabinoids help with relaxation and calm the mind. Studies, like this one, have shown their influence on the production and secretion of hormones such as cortisol.
In this study, cannabidiol reduced stress and relieved anxiety disorders.
4. Rhodiola
In herbal medicine, rhodiole or rhodiola is recommended to reduce stress and relieve its symptoms: fatigue, sleep disturbances, stomachaches…
In this study, this plant improved the quality of life of people suffering from stress.
It is also a natural antidepressant, as shown by this study.
The plant rebalances the neurotransmitters in the brain and improves the symptoms of mild to moderate depression.
5. Hawthorn
Thanks to its calming action, it helps fight stress, anxiety, nervousness, and mood and sleep disorders.
Moreover, it regulates heart palpitations in cases of severe stress.
More studies are still needed to confirm the effectiveness of hawthorn in reducing stress.
6. Passionflower
Passionflower is a plant known for its calming and relaxing effects. It promotes the release of endorphins, molecules that produce a feeling of well-being.
Thus, it helps reduce stress, anxiety, and associated heart palpitations.
Moreover, it contributes to deep, restorative sleep, as shown by this study.
7. Chamomile
Traditionally used as a natural anti-stress remedy, chamomile, whether Roman or German, fights stress, anxiety and soothes the mind. It is a valuable aid in cases of depression, burnout, or emotional imbalance.
It is also helpful for relieving sleep disorders. As shown by this study, it helps with falling asleep and improves sleep quality.
8. Magnesium
Magnesium plays an important role in the nervous system and mental well-being. It is involved in the production and regulation of neurotransmitters such as serotonin or “the happiness hormone”.
By regulating cortisol levels and the activity of the adrenal glands, it reduces stress and anxiety. That’s why it is often part of natural anti-stress formulations.
It also maintains good GABA levels that calm the mind and promote sleep.
This review highlights the role of magnesium in reducing stress.
In addition to supplements, you can favor certain foods to reduce your stress. Dark chocolate, citrus fruits, green vegetables, hojicha tea… are good choices for this.
Where to buy natural anti-stress products?
- Pharmacies and parapharmacies.
- Organic stores.
- Specialized shops (sports nutrition, dietary supplements…).
- Specialized e-commerce sites.
In what form?
In capsules and tablets
Capsules and tablets are suitable for those seeking an easy-to-take, quick and convenient option.
Also, this form has the advantage of being tasteless and easy to find.
However, they may contain insufficient levels of active ingredients or have limited bioavailability. They also often contain synthetic additives : preservatives, flavorings…
As a liquid solution
Liquid dietary supplements come in the form of drops, ampoules, or mother tinctures that are hydroalcoholic.
They are generally more concentrated in active ingredients than capsules or tablets.
They are also useful for people who have difficulty swallowing capsules.
In powder form
The powder simply dissolves in a large glass of water or can be added to homemade drinks and smoothies.
It has the advantage of being minimally processed, pure and natural. However, it can have a pronounced herbal taste.
As gummies
There are natural anti-stress supplements in the form of chewable gummies called “gummies“. They contain a mixture of vitamins, minerals and/or plant extracts: passionflower, valerian…
Convenient to take, this format is useful for reducing stress at a specific moment (for example, before an exam) or for helping with falling asleep when nervous.
However, gummies are generally low in active ingredients and contain sugar.
What criteria should be taken into account?
1. Active ingredient content
A dietary supplement must be sufficiently standardized in active ingredients to be effective. For valerian, for example, each capsule should contain at least 250 mg of the plant.
Ask a doctor who can advise you on the appropriate dosage and duration of use.
2. Manufacturing process
Check the origin of the plants used. They should have been grown without chemicals or pesticides.
The product should be non-irradiated, non-ionized and GMO-free.
It must also ensure good bioavailability for optimal absorption of the active ingredients by the body.
3. Ingredients
Choose a product with a natural composition, without preservatives and without synthetic additives. If possible, opt for a certified organic supplement.
Prefer capsules with a plant-based shell.
4. Price
The price depends on the composition, the brands, the format, and the manufacturing method.
Expect between €10 and €20 for 30 capsules.
In summary
To be sure you choose high-quality anti-stress supplements, check:
- Active ingredient content: the product must contain a sufficient concentration of active ingredients to be effective;
- Manufacturing method: no chemicals, made from plants grown without pesticides;
- Composition: the product must be free of preservatives and synthetic additives;
- Price: it ranges from €10 to €20 for 30 capsules.
