How to Lower Your Cortisol Levels and Stress with Herbs

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Cortisol is a hormone that helps your body cope with stress. It increases your blood sugar, blood pressure and heart rate, and prepares you for fight or flight. However, when cortisol levels are too high for too long, it can have negative effects on your health, such as inflammation, anxiety, weight gain and heart disease. Managing your cortisol levels can be key when dealing with an inflammation disorder or an imbalance in hormones.

For me, there have been several times on my health journey I have had to pay close attention to my stress levels — managing pain levels with endometriosis, while on a pregnancy journey, and currently while on a weight loss journey.

One way to lower your cortisol levels and stress is to use herbs that have adaptogenic properties. Adaptogens are natural substances that help your body adapt to stress and balance your hormones. They can also improve your mood, energy and immune system.

Herbs To Help with Stress

In this blog post, we will introduce you to some of the best herbs that can help you lower your cortisol levels and stress naturally. These herbs are:

Ashwagandha: This is an ancient Ayurvedic herb that can reduce stress levels by regulating the HPA axis, which controls the release of cortisol in your body. Ashwagandha also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. You can take ashwagandha as a capsule, powder or tincture.
Lemon balm: This is a member of the mint family that has a soothing effect on your nervous system. Lemon balm can reduce depression, anxiety and cortisol levels. You can drink lemon balm as a tea or take it as a supplement.
Passion flower: This is a plant that grows wild in South America and has a calming effect on your brain. Passion flower can lower cortisol levels and blood pressure. You can drink passion flower as a tea or take it as a tincture.
Rhodiola: This is a root plant that grows in cold regions and has a stimulating effect on your body. Rhodiola can enhance your physical and mental performance, reduce fatigue and cortisol levels. You can take rhodiola as a capsule or extract.
Chamomile: This is a flower that has a relaxing effect on your mind and body. Chamomile can ease insomnia, anxiety and cortisol levels. You can drink chamomile as a tea or take it as a supplement.
Holy Basil (Tulsi): Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi, is a herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It has adaptogenic properties and is believed to help reduce cortisol levels, promote relaxation, and support overall well-being.
Ginseng: Ginseng, particularly Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng), is an adaptogenic herb that may help the body adapt to stress and support cortisol balance.

Additional Supplements for Cortisol

Herbs are a great source for tackling high cortisol. However, making sure your system is balanced is key on your stress-free journey. Here are two additional supplements to add to your regiment:

L-theanine: This is an amino acid that is found in green tea and has a calming effect on your brain. It can increase your alpha brain waves, which are associated with relaxation and creativity. L-theanine can also lower cortisol levels and blood pressure. You can take L-theanine as a capsule or drink green tea.
Omega-3 fatty acids: These are essential fats that are found in fatty fish, flax seeds, walnuts and other foods. Omega-3 fatty acids can improve your brain function, mood and immune system. They can also lower inflammation and cortisol levels. You can take omega-3 fatty acids as a supplement or eat more foods that contain them.

These herbs are safe and effective ways to lower your cortisol levels and stress naturally. However, before you start taking any of them, make sure to consult with your healthcare provider to avoid any potential interactions or side effects. Also, remember that herbs are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. To manage your stress better, you should also practice good habits such as:

Getting enough sleep
Eating a balanced diet
Exercising regularly
Meditating or doing yoga
Spending time with friends and family
Having fun and hobbies

By combining these herbs with these habits, you can lower your cortisol levels and stress effectively and enjoy a happier and healthier life.

For more on how herbs can help on your health journey, read more here:

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Meet Kyla

Hi Healthy Fam!

I am the creator of Pink Proverb — The Health and Wellness site for women focusing on being proactive about our healthy life and creating a self-care lifestyle that allows us to be our best selves.

I am a Stage IV Endometriosis mom, working hard to stay pain-free. This is my sacred place of inspiration, journaling the things that have helped me along the way.

For more, check out Healthy Kyla on Youtube!

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