The Best Herbs to Help with Stress

Stress affects us all every day when we’re dealing with the challenges of work, family or illness, and even at times of excitement, like when starting a new job or planning a wedding. And stress often leads to poor eating and sleeplessness, which can make it hard to function at your best.

Luckily there are several all-natural cures to help you deal with stress that do not involve a prescription from your doctor. Here are some of my go-to herbal supplements that can help with stress any time of year.

St. John’s Wort

While St John’s wort is lesser known in the U.S., it's quite popular overseas. Also known as Hypericum perforatum, this herb is commonly prescribed by doctors in Europe, especially for mood-related disorders such as depression. In fact, a 2008 review of 23 randomized controlled trials showed the effects of St. John’s wort were equivalent to those of antidepressants, except that the all-natural herb came with minimal side effects.

Since sometimes stress can also bring about the blues, a St. John’s wort supplement may be just what the doctor ordered. Try California Gold Nutrition, St. John's Wort Extract.

Black Cohosh

I most often find myself recommending black cohosh to patients complaining of hot flashes, since it has been heavily researched and found to reduce this menopausal side effect in 80 percent of women, with 50 percent experiencing complete relief. But that’s not all black cohosh can help with.

By maintaining a healthy balance of hormones (which we can all benefit from), it helps regulate our mood and stress level, preventing meltdowns. Try California Gold Nutrition, Black Cohosh Extract.

Passion Flower

In addition to its pretty name, passion flower has some pretty impressive benefits, namely reductions in stress and anxiety. For patients facing stressful situations, struggling to get a good night’s sleep, I recommend passion flower supplements for a little help in the relaxation department.

Just 500 mg 2 or 3 times a day is all you need to de-stress and unwind. Try California Gold Nutrition, Passion Flower.

Milk Thistle

A tall, prickly, purple flowering plant, milk thistle has been hailed for thousands of years for its impressive healing benefits including boosting immune systems, supporting bone health and even supporting liver health.

I recommend around 400 mg each day to help stave off stress. Try California Gold Nutrition, Milk Thistle Extract.