Rev. Colleen Irwin

Herbs and spices have been known to help us with so many things.   Did you know that they can assist you with dealing with stress?  Here are some herbs and spices known for their stress-reducing properties, along with their common uses and benefits:

Herbs

Ashwagandha:

• • Benefits: Known as an adaptogen, it helps reduce stress and anxiety.
  • Uses: Can be taken as a supplement, in teas, or added to smoothies.

Holy Basil (Tulsi):

• • Benefits: Reduces stress, supports adrenal health, and improves mood.
  • Uses: Commonly used in teas and as a supplement.

Lemon Balm:

• • Benefits: Calms the nervous system, reduces anxiety, and improves sleep.
  • Uses: Used in teas, tinctures, and as a flavoring in desserts.

Chamomile:

• • Benefits: Known for its calming effects, helps reduce anxiety and improve sleep.
  • Uses: Commonly used in teas.

Lavender:

• • Benefits: Reduces anxiety and promotes relaxation.
  • Uses: Used in teas, essential oils, and as a flavoring in baking.

Rhodiola:

• • Benefits: Another adaptogen that helps the body manage stress and improve energy levels.
  • Uses: Taken as a supplement or in teas.

Passionflower:

• • Benefits: Reduces anxiety and promotes restful sleep.
  • Uses: Used in teas, tinctures, and as a supplement.

Spices

Turmeric:

• • Benefits: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help manage stress.
  • Uses: Used in curries, soups, smoothies, and golden milk.

Ginger:

• • Benefits: Reduces inflammation and has calming properties.
  • Uses: Used in teas, soups, stir-fries, and desserts.

Cinnamon:

• • Benefits: Stabilizes blood sugar levels, which can help manage stress.
  • Uses: Used in baking, oatmeal, smoothies, and teas.

Cardamom:

• • Benefits: Contains compounds that can help reduce anxiety.
  • Uses: Used in baking, teas, curries, and rice dishes.

Nutmeg:

• • Benefits: Has calming effects that can help with sleep and anxiety.
  • Uses: Used in baking, beverages, and savory dishes.

Saffron:

• • Benefits: Contains compounds that improve mood and reduce anxiety.
  • Uses: Used in rice dishes, teas, and desserts.

Peppermint:

• • Benefits: Calming effect on the body, can reduce anxiety and improve digestion.
  • Uses: Used in teas, desserts, and as a flavoring.

Cloves:

• • Benefits: Contains eugenol, which has calming properties.
  • Uses: Used in baking, teas, and savory dishes.

Incorporating Stress-Reducing Herbs and Spices

Teas: Many of these herbs and spices can be brewed into calming teas. Examples include chamomile tea, lavender tea, and turmeric ginger tea.

Smoothies: Add ashwagandha, holy basil, or turmeric to your smoothies for added stress-reducing benefits.

Cooking: Use stress-reducing spices like turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon in your daily cooking. They can be added to soups, stews, curries, and baked goods.

Supplements: Some herbs, like ashwagandha and rhodiola, are commonly available in supplement form if you prefer not to cook with them.

By incorporating these stress-reducing herbs and spices into your diet, you can help manage stress levels and promote overall well-being.