|
|
STRESS ©2002 Alva Irish *Consumer Health Reviews has compiled links for the best prices on the items throughout the article. Click on product to go to the site. Each link will open in a new page* “The stress response of the body is somewhat like an airplane readying for take-off. Virtually all systems (eg, the heart and blood vessels, the immune system, the lungs, the digestive system, the sensory organs, and brain) are modified to meet the perceived danger." Stress is an unavoidable consequence of life. As Hans Selye (who coined the term as it is currently used) noted, "Without stress, there would be no life". However, just as distress can cause disease, it seems plausible that there are good stresses that promote wellness. Stress is not always necessarily harmful. Winning a race or election can be just stressful as losing, or more so, but may trigger very different biological responses. Increased stress results in increased productivity -- up to a point. However, this level differs for each of us. It's very much like the stress on a violin string. Not enough produces a dull, raspy sound. Too much tension makes a shrill, annoying noise or snaps the string. However, just the right degree can create a magnificent tone. Similarly, we all need to find the proper level of stress that allows us to perform optimally and make melodious music as we go through life. External and Internal Stressors People can experience either external or internal stressors. External stressors include adverse physical conditions (such as pain or hot or cold temperatures) or stressful psychological environments (such as poor working conditions or abusive relationships). Humans, like animals, can experience external stressors. Internal stressors can also be physical (infections, inflammation) or psychological. An example of an internal psychological stressor is intense worry about a harmful event that may or may not occur. As far as anyone can tell, internal psychological stressors are rare or absent in most animals except humans. Acute or Chronic Stress Stressors can also be defined as short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic). Acute Stress. Acute stress is the reaction to an immediate threat, commonly known as the fight or flight response. The threat can be any situation that is experienced, even subconsciously or falsely, as a danger. Common acute stressors include:
Under most circumstances, once the acute threat has passed, the response becomes inactivated and levels of stress hormones return to normal, a condition called the relaxation response. Chronic Stress. Frequently, however, modern life poses on-going stressful situations that are not short-lived and the urge to act (to fight or to flee) must be suppressed. Stress, then, becomes chronic. Common chronic stressors include:
WHAT IS THE EFFECT OF ACUTE STRESS? The best way to envision the effect of acute stress is to imagine oneself in a primitive situation, such as being chased by a bear. The Brain's Response to Acute Stress In response to seeing the bear, a part of the brain called the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) system is activated. Release of Steroid Hormones. The HPA systems trigger the production and release of steroid hormones ( glucocorticoids), including the primary stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol is very important in marshaling systems throughout the body (including the heart, lungs, circulation, metabolism, immune systems, and skin) to deal quickly with the bear. Release of Catecholamines. The HPA system also releases certain neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) called catecholamine, particularly those known as known as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine (also called adrenaline). Catecholamine activates an area inside
the brain called the amygdala, which apparently triggers an emotional
response to a stressful event. (In the case of the bear, this emotion
is most likely fear.) Response by the Heart, Lungs, and Circulation to Acute Stress
The Immune System's Response to Acute Stress The effect on the immune system from confrontation with the bear is similar to marshaling a defensive line of soldiers to potentially critical areas.
The Acute Response in the Mouth and Throat As the bear gets closer, fluids are diverted from nonessential locations, including the mouth. This causes dryness and difficulty in talking. In addition, stress can cause spasms of the throat muscles, making it difficult to swallow. The Skin's Response to Acute Stress The stress effect diverts blood flow away from the skin to support the heart and muscle tissues. (This also reduces blood loss in the event that the bear catches up.) The physical effect is a cool, clammy, sweaty skin. The scalp also tightens so that the hair seems to stand up. Metabolic Response to Acute Stress Stress shuts down digestive activity, a nonessential body function during short-term periods of physical exertion or crisis. The Relaxation Response: the Resolution of Acute Stress Once the threat has passed and the effect has not been harmful (ie, the bear has not eaten or seriously wounded the human), the stress hormones return to normal. This is known as the relaxation response. In turn, the body's systems also normalize. WHAT ARE THE NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF STRESS? In prehistoric times, the physical changes in response to stress were an essential adaptation for meeting natural threats. Even in the modern world, the stress response can be an asset for raising levels of performance during critical events such as a sports activity, an important meeting, or in situations of actual danger or crisis. If stress becomes persistent and low-level, however, all parts of the body's stress apparatus (the brain, heart, lungs, vessels, and muscles) become chronically over- or under-activated. This may produce physical or psychological damage over time. Acute stress can also be harmful in certain situations. Stress-related conditions that are most likely to produce negative physical effects include:
Psychological Effects of Stress Studies suggest that the inability to adapt to stress is associated with the onset of depression or anxiety. In one study, two-thirds of subjects who experienced a stressful situation had nearly six times the risk of developing depression within that month. Some evidence suggests that repeated release of stress hormone produces hyperactivity in the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis and disrupts normal levels of serotonin, the nerve chemical that is critical for feelings of well-being. Certainly, on a more obvious level, stress diminishes the quality of life by reducing feelings of pleasure and accomplishment, and relationships are often threatened. Heart Disease Mental stress is as major a trigger for angina as physical stress. Incidents of acute stress have been associated with a higher risk for serious cardiac events, such as heart rhythm abnormalities and heart attacks, and even death from such events in people with heart disease. Stress activates the sympathetic nervous system (the automatic part of the nervous system that affects many organs, including the heart). Such actions and others may negatively affect the heart in several ways:
Stroke One survey revealed that men who had a more intense response to stressful situations, such as waiting in line or problems at work, were more likely to have strokes than those who did not report such distress. In some people prolonged or frequent mental stress causes an exaggerated increase in blood pressure. In fact, a 2001 study has linked for the first time a higher risk for stroke in adult Caucasian men and elevated blood pressure during times of stress. Susceptibility to Infections Chronic stress appears to blunt the immune response and increase the risk for infections and may even impair a person's response to immunizations. A number of studies have shown that subjects under chronic stress have low white blood cell counts and are vulnerable to colds. And once any person catches a cold or flu, stress can exacerbate symptoms. People who harbor herpes or HIV viruses may be more susceptible to viral activation following exposure to stress. Even more serious, some research has found that HIV-infected men with high stress levels progress more rapidly to AIDS when compared to those with lower stress levels. (In some studies, stressful events most linked with a higher incidence of infections were interpersonal conflicts, such as those at work or in a marriage.) Immune Disorders The contradictory effects of stress on the immune system can have mixed effects on autoimmune diseases (which are those that are caused by inflammation and damage from immune attacks on the body). For example, eczema, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis may demonstrate changes ranging from improvement to deterioration in response to stress. A 2001 study reported that short-term stress appears to have no negative effect on multiple sclerosis, but chronic stress is a major risk factor for flare-ups. Cancer Current evidence does not support the idea that stress causes cancer. Nevertheless, some animal studies suggest that lack of control over stress (not simply stress itself) had negative effects on immune function and contributed to tumor growth. And, two small studies on melanoma and breast cancer patients reported improved survival with therapies that offered emotional support. Other research has not detected similar survival benefits, but support groups still have great value in reducing stress in patients with terminal cancer. Gastrointestinal Problems The brain and the intestine are strongly related and mediated by many of the same hormones and nervous system. (Indeed, some research suggests that the gut itself has features of a primitive brain.) It is not surprising then that prolonged stress can disrupt the digestive system, irritating the large intestine and causing diarrhea, constipation, cramping, and bloating. Excessive production of digestive acids in the stomach may cause a painful burning. Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome (or spastic colon) is strongly related to stress. With this condition, the large intestine becomes irritated, and its muscular contractions are spastic rather than smooth and wave like. The abdomen is bloated and the patient experiences cramping and alternating periods of constipation and diarrhea. Sleep disturbances due to stress can further exacerbate irritable bowel syndrome. Peptic Ulcers. It is now well established that most peptic ulcers are either caused by the H. pylori bacteria or by the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications (such as aspirin and ibuprofen). Nevertheless, studies still suggest that stress may predispose someone to ulcers or sustain existing ulcers. Some experts, in fact, estimate that social and psychological factors play some contributing role in 30% to 60% of peptic ulcer cases, whether they are caused by H. pylori or NSAIDs. In any case, some experts believe that the anecdotal relationship between stress and ulcers is so strong that attention to psychological factors is still warranted. Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Although stress is not a cause of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), there are reports of an association between stress and symptom flare-ups. One study, for example, found that while short term (past month) stress did not significantly exacerbate ulcerative colitis symptoms, long term perceived stress tripled the rate of flare-ups compared to patients who did not report feelings of stress. Eating Problems Stress can have varying effects on eating problems and weight. Weight Gain. Often stress is related to weight gain and obesity. Many people develop cravings for salt, fat, and sugar to counteract tension and, thus, gain weight. Weight gain can occur even with a healthy diet, however, in some people exposed to stress. And the weight gained is often abdominal fat, a predictor of diabetes and heart problems. In a 2000 study, lean women who gained weight in response to stress tended to be less able to adapt to and manage stressful conditions. The release of cortisol, a major stress hormone, appears to promote abdominal fat and may be the primary connection between stress and weight gain in such people. Weight Loss. Some people suffer a loss of appetite and lose weight. In rare cases, stress may trigger hyperactivity of the thyroid gland, stimulating appetite but causing the body to burn up calories at a faster than normal rate. Eating Disorders . Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are eating disorders that are highly associated with adjustment problems in response to stress and emotional issues. Diabetes Chronic stress has been associated with the development of insulin-resistance, a condition in which the body is unable to use insulin effectively to regulate glucose (blood sugar). Insulin-resistance is a primary factor in diabetes. Stress can also exacerbate existing diabetes by impairing the patient's ability to manage the disease effectively. Pain Researchers are attempting to find the relationship between pain and emotion, but the area is complicated by many factors, including effects of personality types, fear of pain, and stress itself. Muscular and Joint Pain. Chronic pain caused by arthritis and other conditions may be intensified by stress. (According to a study on patients with rheumatoid arthritis, however, stress management techniques do not appear to have much effect on arthritic pain.) Psychological distress also plays a significant role in the severity of back pain. Some studies have clearly associated job dissatisfaction and depression to back problems, although it is still unclear if stress is a direct cause of the back pain. Headaches. Tension-type headache episodes are highly associated with stress and stressful events. (Sometimes the headache doesn't even start until long after a stressful event is over.) Some research suggests that tension-type headache sufferers may actually have some biological predisposition for translating stress into muscle contraction. Among the wide range of possible migraine triggers is emotional stress (although the headaches often erupt after the stress has eased). One study suggested that women with migraines tend to have personalities that over-respond to stressful situations. Sleep Disturbances The tensions of unresolved stress frequently cause insomnia, generally keeping the stressed person awake or causing awakening in the middle of the night or early morning. Sexual and Reproductive Dysfunction Sexual Function. Stress can lead to diminished sexual desire and an inability to achieve orgasm in women. Stress response can also cause temporary impotence in men. Part of the stress response involves the release of brain chemicals that constrict the smooth muscles of the penis and its arteries. This constriction reduces the blood flow into and increases the blood flow out of the penis, which can prevent erection. Premenstrual Syndrome. Some studies indicate that the stress response in women with premenstrual syndrome may be more intense than in those without the syndrome. Fertility. Stress may even affect fertility. Stress hormones have an impact on the hypothalamus gland, which produces reproductive hormones. Severely elevated cortisol levels can even shut down menstruation. One interesting small study reported a significantly higher incidence of pregnancy loss in women who experienced both high stress and prolonged menstrual cycles. Another reported that women with stressful jobs had shorter periods than women with low-stress jobs. Effects on Pregnancy. Old wives' tales about a pregnant woman's emotions affecting her baby may have some credence. Maternal stress during pregnancy has been linked to a 50% higher risk for miscarriage. It is also associated with lower birth weights and increased incidence of premature births, both of which are risk factors for infant mortality. One study suggested that stress experienced by expectant mothers can even influence the way in which the baby's brain and nervous system will react to stressful events. Stress may cause physiologic alterations, such as increased adrenal hormone levels or resistance in the arteries, that may interfere with normal blood flow to the placenta. Memory, Concentration, and Learning Stress has significant effects on the brain, particularly on memory. The typical victim of severe stress suffers loss of concentration at work and at home and may become inefficient and accident-prone. In children, the physiologic responses to stress can clearly inhibit learning. Although some memory loss occurs with age, stress may play an even more important role than simple aging in this process. In one study older people with low stress hormone levels tested as well as younger people in cognitive tests: those with higher stress levels tested between 20% and 50% lower. Effect of Acute Stress on Memory. Studies indicate that the immediate effect of acute stress impairs short-term memory, particularly verbal memory. In one interesting 2000 study, subjects took pills containing either cortisone (a stress hormone) or a placebo (a dummy pill). Those taking the cortisone performed significantly worse on memorization tests than those taking the placebo pill did. In an earlier study, when individuals were subjected to four days of stress, verbal memory was also impaired. Fortunately, in such cases, memory is restored after a period of relaxation. Effect of Chronic Stress on Memory. Studies have strongly associated prolonged exposure to cortisol (the major stress hormone) to shrinkage in the hippocampus, the center of memory. For example, two studies reported that groups who suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (Vietnam veterans and women who suffered from sexual abuse) displayed up to 8% shrinkage in the hippocampus. It is not yet known if this shrinkage is reversible. Other Disorders Allergies. Research suggests that stress, not indoor pollutants, may actually be a cause of the so-called sick-building syndrome, which produces allergy-like symptoms, such as eczema, headaches, asthma, and sinus problems, in office workers. Skin Disorders. Stress plays a role in exacerbating a number of skin conditions, including hives, psoriasis, acne, rosacea, and eczema. Unexplained itching may also be caused by stress. Unexplained Hair Loss (Alopecia Areata). Alopecia areata is hair loss that occurs in localized (or discrete) patches. The cause is unknown but stress is suspected as a player in this condition. For example, hair loss often occurs during periods of intense stress, such as mourning. Teeth and Gums. Stress has now been implicated in increasing the risk for periodontal disease, which is disease in the gums that can cause tooth loss. Self-Medication with Unhealthy Lifestyles People under chronic stress frequently seek relief through drug or alcohol abuse, tobacco use, abnormal eating patterns, or passive activities, such as watching television. The damage these self-destructive habits cause under ordinary circumstances is compounded by the physiologic effects of stress itself. And the cycle is self-perpetuating; a sedentary routine, an unhealthy diet, alcohol abuse, and smoking promote heart disease, interfere with sleep patterns, and lead to increased rather than reduced tension levels. Drinking four or five cups of coffee, for example, can cause changes in blood pressure and stress hormone levels similar to those produced by chronic stress. Animal fats, simple sugars, and salt are known contributors to health problems. WHO IS AT RISK FOR CHRONIC STRESS OR STRESS-RELATED DISEASES? General Factors that Increase Susceptibility At some point in their lives virtually everyone will experience stressful events or situations that overwhelm their natural coping mechanisms. In one poll, 89% of respondents indicated that they had experienced serious stress in their lives. Many factors influence susceptibility to stress. Conditions that Influence the Effects of Stress. People respond to stress differently depending on different factors:
Effects in Childhood Animal studies report that rats that have been exposed to maternal grooming (ie, positive physical affection by the mother) have lower stress hormone levels in adulthood. Depressed or aggressive mothers are particularly powerful sources of stress in children, even more important than poverty or overcrowding. Children are frequent victims of stress because they are often unable to communicate their feelings accurately or their responses to events over which they have no control.
Stress in the Elderly As people age, the ability to achieve a relaxation response after a stressful event becomes more difficult. Aging may simply wear out the systems in the brain that respond to stress, so that they become inefficient. The elderly, too, are very often exposed to major stressors such as medical problems, the loss of a spouse and friends, a change in a living situation, and financial worries. Caregivers Caregivers of Family Members. Studies show that caregivers of physically or mentally disabled family members are at risk for chronic stress. Spouses caring for a disabled partner are particularly vulnerable to a range of stress-related health threats including influenza, depression, heart disease, and even poorer survival rates. Caring for a spouse with even minor disabilities can induce severe stress. (Intervention programs that are aimed at helping the caregiver approach the situation positively can be very helpful at reducing stress and helping the caregiver maintain a positive attitude.) Wives experience significantly greater stress from caregiving than husbands, and, according to a 2000 study, tend to feel more negative about their husbands than caregiving husbands feel about their wives. Specific risk factors that put caregivers at higher risk for severe stress or stress-related illnesses include the following:
Angry Personalities People who are less emotionally stable or have high anxiety levels tend to experience specific events as more stressful than others. Some experts describe an exaggerated negative response to stress as "catastrophizing" the event (turning it into a catastrophe). An overly angry or hostile response to stressful situations may be dangerous to the heart, but studies are mixed. Studies in 1998 and 2000 have reported an association among women between anger, irritability, and hostility and narrowing of the arteries, a major risk factor for heart disease. The 1998 study reported that being self conscious in public and suppressing anger were also associated with this risk. A 1999 study further reported a link in older women between long term anger and the development of abnormal obesity (the so-called apple shape), an important risk factor for heart diseases. According to a 2000 study on Army personnel, depression, anxiety, hostility, and stress did not appear to have any effect on atherosclerosis, the primary cause of coronary artery disease. And, another 2000 study suggested that, although anger itself posed no higher risk to the heart, outwardly expressed anger plus low social supports did appear to predict progression of heart disease. [For more information see the Well-Connected Report #8, Depression.] Lack of Social Network The lack of an established network of family and friends predisposes one to stress disorders and stress-related health problems, including heart disease and infections. And, a 2000 study reported that older people who maintain active relationships with their adult children are buffered against the adverse health effects of chronic stress-inducing situations, such as low income or lower social class. One study suggested this may be because people who live alone are unable to discuss negative feelings and so relieve their stress. Work Risk Factors According to one survey, 40% of American workers describe their jobs as very stressful. Job-related stress is particularly likely to become chronic because it is such a large part of daily life. And, stress in turn reduces a worker's effectiveness by impairing concentration, causing sleeplessness, and increasing the risk for illness, back problems, accidents, and lost time. Work stress can lead to harassment or even violence while on the job. At its most extreme, stress that places such a burden on the heart and circulation may be fatal. The Japanese even have a word for sudden death due to overwork, karoushi. In fact, a number of studies are now suggesting that job-related stress is as great a threat to health as smoking or not exercising. Among the intense stressors at work are the following:
In some people, stress hormones remain elevated instead of returning to normal levels. This may occur in highly competitive athletes or people with a history of depression. Biologic Factors In a 1999 study scientists reported the discovery of a small protein in the brain (orphanin FQ/nociceptin) that plays an important role in the stress response. Animals with a genetic deficiency in this protein are unable to manage stress response and exhibit over-anxious behavior in response to new situations. Future research may reveal similar findings in humans. WHAT OTHER CONDITIONS HAVE THE SAME SYMPTOMS AS STRESS? Anxiety Disorders The physical symptoms of anxiety disorders mirror many of those of stress, including a fast heart rate; rapid, shallow breathing; and increased muscle tension. Anxiety is an emotional disorder, however, and is characterized by feelings of apprehension, uncertainty, fear, or panic. Unlike stress, the triggers for anxiety are not necessarily or even usually associated with specific stressful or threatening conditions. Some individuals with anxiety disorders have numerous physical complaints, such as headaches, gastrointestinal disturbances, dizziness, and chest pain. Severe cases of anxiety disorders are debilitating, and interfere with career, family, and social spheres. Depression Depression can be a disabling condition, and, like anxiety disorders, may result from untreated chronic stress. Depression also mimics some of the symptoms of stress, including changes in appetite, sleep patterns, and concentration. Serious depression, however, is distinguished from stress by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest in life, and, sometimes, thoughts of suicide. Acute depression is also accompanied by significant changes in the patient's functioning. Professional therapy may be needed in order to determine if depression is caused by stress or if it is the primary problem. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a reaction to a very traumatic event: it is actually classified as an anxiety disorder. The event that precipitates PTSD is usually outside the norm of human experience, such as intense combat or sexual assault. The patient struggles to forget the traumatic event and frequently develops emotional numbness and event-related amnesia. Often, however, there is a mental flashback, and the patient re-experiences the painful circumstance in the form of intrusive dreams and disturbing thoughts and memories, which resemble or recall the trauma. Other symptoms may include lack of pleasure in formerly enjoyed activities, hopelessness, irritability, mood swings, sleep problems, inability to concentrate, and an excessive startle-response to noise. WHAT ARE THE GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR REDUCING STRESS? Perhaps the best general approach for treating stress can be found in the elegant passage by Reinhold Niebuhr, "Grant me the courage to change the things I can change, the serenity to accept the things I can't change, and the wisdom to know the difference." The process of learning to control stress is life-long, and will not only contribute to better health, but a greater ability to succeed in one's own agenda. WHAT NATURAL STEPS CAN I TAKE TO REDUCE AND EVEN ELIMINATE STRESS IN MY LIFE? Here are some Stress relieving herbs, nutrients and actions you can use to help your body relax: Plants and Herbs Chamomile - Used for hundreds of years and a calming agent for children, it also works well for adults. Its apple scent fills the room when you brew a cup and sweetened with honey, it makes you want to take a deep breath, kick your shoes off and sigh. Sage - One of the most widely used herbs by Native Americans, its use as a calmant is little known. But Sage tea will boost the immune system while healing the nerves. Brew tea using 1 teaspoon of sage per cup of boiling water. Black elder - is known to induce to body to sweat, Sweating is a way for the body to release toxins, thus removing stress from the body. The flowers and the berries are both used in various ways to promote natural healing within the body. The flowers of the elder berry contain large portions of organic acids and calcium. The berries contain vitamin B1 and vitamin C, along with essential oils. Peppermint has menthol, as it's active ingredient. Menthol helps ease diarrhea, headaches and colic in babies. Peppermint also contains B vitamins, calcium, and potassium. Peppermint essential oil menthol is known to promote digestion and help prevent gallstones. It soothes the stomach lining relieving stomach cramps. The B vitamins in menthol help improve concentration and performance in the brain and nerves. The combination of Elderflower and Peppermint tea has been used for centuries to heal pneumonia. This works. Stinging nettle tea, the natural healer - Nettle Tea has been used through history as a detoxifier for the blood system, removing unwanted impurities. It also helps with lowering blood sugar and improving digestion and relieving pain. People with arthritis are encouraged to use this plant directly on aching joints; it will stimulate the blood, which reduces pain. Jasmine essential oil has a sweet and floral aroma. It has many healing properties than are very useful it is used as an anti-inflammatory agent, as an antiseptic and as a sedative. It may be blended with other herbs such as bergamot, Clary sage, frankincense, geranium, lime, lemon balm, rose, rosewood and sandalwood. When blended with these herbs its provides many different ways to promote the body’s natural way of healing. Echinacea, known as the purple coneflower, is native to the prairies of the Western United States. But currently 2 of the 3 species has become more scarce in the wild and now are cultivated for the most part. Echinacea is from the aster family and the roots and above ground parts are harvested while the plant is in flower. Today consumers use echinacea mainly for preventing and treating colds and to help in the healing of infections. It gives the white blood cells and immune system cells that little extra boost they need in helping to fight off colds and flu viruses. In addition to stimulating the immune system it helps accelerate healing of infections that already exist. Chlorophyll, the green “blood” of plant life is made by plants through a chemical process called photosynthesis. And amazingly, it essentially has the same effects in the body as iron, so it builds our own blood naturally. Catabolic and anabolic at the same time, liquid chlorophyll is a powerful detoxifier and tonic. It cleanses the blood and builds red blood cells while doing it. Because liquid chlorophyll’s composition contains calcium, it is highly useful for people as well as animals with arthritis, bone diseases, and hip dysplasia. Chlorophyll heals chronic conditions both internally and externally, and stops the growth and development of toxic bacteria. Chlorophyll removes toxins from the bones, blood tissues, and intestines. And because chlorophyll helps to thicken and strengthen the walls of the cells, it is also a nutritional aid for the immune system. Liquid chlorophyll counteracts toxins, the result is that the body heal faster. It also works in purifying the liver, eliminates old toxic material, and deodorizes the bowels and the entire body. In the colon, liquid chlorophyll helps keep the colon healthy by destroying disease causing bacteria. It works well in eliminating body odors, abscesses, and other skin sores in people as well as animals. In fact it’s a great help for any digestive problems, constipation, or diarrhea. Blue gum eucalyptus can be found in Australia, Spain, Brazil, Russia, China and California. This tall tree is very attractive with its long leaves and white flowers. Blue gum eucalyptus oil is steam-distilled from the leaves and bark of the tree. It has a sharp sweet aroma that helps clear the head. Blue gum eucalyptus oil is used as an antiseptic and a pain reliever. Herbalists prescribe blue gum eucalyptus with other essential oils such as lavender, lemon, juniper, and bergamot. Blue gum eucalyptus is a popular antiseptic; the Australian Aborigines use the leaves for healing wounds, fighting infections and help relieve muscle aches and pains. It is used in India to help rid fevers and control contagious diseases. Many of the United States pharmaceutical companies use this essential oil in vapor rubs and many other chest and cold products. This essential oil is also useful for insect bites, burns, wounds, and blisters. It is also an insect repellent, just place 2-tablespoon of blue gum eucalyptus oil and bergamot or lavender in the top of a candle, and use outside. Herbalists suggest blue gum eucalyptus candles for relieving stress-related illnesses. This candle is to be burned to help strengthen the nervous system and aid in concentration. Kava Kava is a ceremonial relaxant used traditionaly by men indigenous to the Pacific islands. Today it is used by those in the West, to alleviate stress, and to promote a sense of well being. Kava Kava, or Kava for short, exerts its influence over its subjects by means of its active constituents, kavalactones. Kavalactones, bond to the same part of the brain as valium. This is known as the GABAminergic receptor site. However, unlike valium, Kava does not seem to "dumb down" the user. In fact, in one study, verbal recall (the intellect you use when you're trying to remember someone's name) is shown to improve under the influence of Kava. It seems, that Kava is more like another GABA acting substance, this substance being Piracetam, which has been shown to boost some aspects of intelligence. Kava Kava has been shown to increase sensitivity to light and sound, making it especially useful to musicians and artists who seek to polish their artistry. I have personally experimented with Kava Kava use, as a study aid to musical divisions of beat. I have found it very useful in this type of learning as it seems to sedate the body, without the alcohol-like impairment of the mental faculties. I have yet to personally employ it in creative endeavors, though I expect that it will enhance my functioning. Dill has been a prized herb throughout history. During ancient times they would even accept if for payment of other items. Dill is used to help alleviate hiccups, stomach and intestinal problems, mild insomnia; it helps promote wellness of the liver and gallbladder. The leaves and seeds of dill contain vitamin C, folic acid, beta-carotene and potassium. These help calm stomachs, kill stomach bacteria, and soothe colic in infants. Dill seeds can also be used as breath fresheners. Just chew on a few between meals, it kills bacteria in the mouth which leaves fresher breathe. Coriander's essential oil has been used through the ages, it was thought by the Egyptian's to provide immorality. The Egyptians also believed in was helpful in raising a man's sperm count. But in today's society it is used in alleviating stomachaches and improving digestion. It is also used to reduce stress where people can express their thoughts. Coriander's essential oil contains linalool, geranial, vitamin C, and Potassium all these aid in the circulatory system, digestive system and is good for the skin. Coriander is also good for migraine headaches, by drinking coriander tea a couple of times per day. To prepare coriander tea, bring a cup of water to a boil add 1/4 teaspoon crushed coriander seeds, let mixture set for ten minutes. Strain and then add 2 teaspoons sugar. Skullcap, scutellaria lateriflora, was named for its hooded, helmet-like, pink or blue flowers. Skullcap is rich in scuttelarian. This flavonoid has sedative and antispasmodic properties, and herbalists consider it one of the best and safest sedatives of the plant world. Rosemary is an herb that has silver-green needle like leaves with pale blue or lilac flowers. Rosemary is sought after for it purifying and stimulant characteristics. It can be found worldwide but most of rosemary’s essential oils are produced in Morocco, France and Spain. Rosemary essential is extracted by steam distillation from the flowers and leaves. It has a strong, clean mint aroma. It is used for its antidepressant, antiseptic, digestive, stimulant and tonic properties. Rosemary essential oil is often blended with Atlas cedarwood, geranium, ginger, lemon balm, myrtle and sweet basil. Nutmeg has a variety of health benefits besides adding it to cookies and pies. It calms and helps lower blood pressure and soothes digestive upset. Mixed with a neutral oil and used in a massage it eases joint pain and inflammation. Nutmeg also provides fast relief for diarrhea and toothaches. The therapeutic effects of nutmeg stimulates the cardiovascular system, promotes concentration, acts as ab expectorant, reduces joint inflammation and helps also with liver removing toxins. Vetiver is a tall, dense, wild grass with long narrow leaves and a strand of underground white, yellow and brown roots. It is sought after for its calming, protective, soothing and uplifting characteristics. It can be found in Java, Haiti, Japan, Indonesia and South India. Vetiver is used for its antiseptic, sedative, stimulant and tonic properties. Vetiver’s essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from its roots. Vetiver essential oil’s aroma has a smoky woody scent. It is often blended with geranium, jasmine, lavender and rosewood. Vetiver has been used throughout his in many different cultures for many different reasons from its healing abilities to ceremonies. In India and Sri Lanka it is known as the oil of tranquility. Aromatherapy Here is a list of Essential oils that are used to calm the nerves and remove stress from the body:
A good Aromatherapist can make up a combination of any of these tuned to your own body’s needs. Vitamins and Minerals To determine what vitamins and minerals your body is imbalanced in, a hair analysis is a wonderful window into your physical make-up to see WHY you are exhibiting a stress response to things that happen in your everyday life. Stress can quickly deplete the body of B vitamins, C, Zinc and more, so to put your body back into balance would be the first step in eliminating stress. Foods Some stress relieving foods are:
Meditation, Massage, and Relaxation Some alternate therapies that will alleviate Stress:
Natural Remedies / Alternative Therapies Some Alternative Healing Techniques you may want to try:
References: The American Institute of Health Archives American College of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine archives The Natural Way of Healing Stress, Anxiety, and Depression by Natural Medicine Collective Serenity Garden: 7 Radical Weeds for Natural Stress Relief by Jillian Vannostrand, Christie V. Sarles, Martha G. Copplestone En Garden!: 7 Radical Weeds for Life Support & Repair by Jillian Vannostrand, Christie V. Sarles Healing Wise by Susun S. Weed, Durga Bernhard Sacred Plant Medicine : explorations in the practice of indigenous herbalism by Stephen Harrod Buhner, Stephen Harrod Buhner Spiritual Healing: A Patient's Guide by EILEEN INGE HERZBERG A Change for the Better by PATRICIA DAVIS Stress: A Friend for Life by JENNI
ADAMS |