Natural Plant Extracts for use in Stress Management Regimens

January 7, 2024

An Holistic Wellbeing Perspective

NetVista Health understands that human physiology is a remarkably complex field in which even the most highly qualified professionals have only managed to acquire an incomplete understanding within their own spheres of specialisation. NetVista Health does not make specific health claims concerning supplements or the ingredients they contain but endeavours to understand and communicate the possible benefits of certain types of naturally occurring compounds with reference to both tradition approaches to health and modern scientific research. For an independent, balanced view of adaptogens and an explanation of sensible precautions, we refer you to the UCLA Health article What are adaptogens and should you be taking them?

Always consult your primary care physician or a qualified medical practitioner before incorporating adaptogens or other plant extracts into your health regimen.

While we market a range of thoughtfully selected health supplements that you might consider incorporating into your holistic wellness regimen, we urge you to implement lifestyle measures to address the following key areas in order to realise the greatest health benefits over time:

Nutrition
Exercise
Mindfulness, Meditation and Breathing
Social Interaction
Restorative Sleep

The Power of Plant Extracts

Given the relentless pace of today's professional world, stress management is crucial, especially for women who must juggle multiple roles.

While modern medicine offers some solutions, there is a growing inclination towards natural remedies, a practice deeply rooted in Ayurveda and other traditional medicine systems from a range of cultures. These ancient methods, practiced for centuries, use plant extracts to promote mental and physical wellbeing. Today, such practices are increasingly supported by rigorous scientific research and align with holistic approaches that combine a range of medical techniques with lifestyle improvements for comprehensive wellness. A 2020 survey revealed that approximately 77% of adults believe it is essential to embrace such natural, holistic approaches to health.

Busy professional women are prone to stress and anxiety

NetVista Health fully supports the idea that personalised integrative medicine provides the best opportunities to restore, promote and maintain wellness by combining the most effective elements from traditional methods, lifestyle factors, specialised disciplines such as physiotherapy and, where appropriate, modern medicine. In this article however, we will focus exclusively on the role that natural plant extracts can play within an holistic stress management regimen. Supplements offer a convenient way of benefitting from such substances, especially when time constraints limit access to other nutritional options.

As we delve a little deeper into the world of natural plant extracts, we'll explore five classes of substance, each with its own unique stress-combatting properties.

These natural aids, validated by both tradition and (increasingly) science, offer busy professional women an harmonious blend of past wisdom and modern insight in their quest for stress relief and wellbeing.

Adaptogens

Adaptogens like Ashwagandha, Rhodiola Rosea, and Holy Basil have long featured in traditional medicine for their perceived ability to enhance the body's resilience to stress. They work by modulating the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis, reducing the adverse impact of stress hormones, of which the most important is cortisol. Modern studies back their efficacy, hinting at their potential use in improving mental focus and physical stamina, resources which are vital for the demanding lives of professional women.

Anxiolytics

Anxiolytics, including Chamomile, Lemon Balm, and Lavender, exert calming effects by interacting with the brain's neurotransmitter systems, particularly those involving Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA). These natural extracts are renowned for their gentle action in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, making them useful for winding down after a high-pressure day.

Nervines

Nervines such as Passionflower and Valerian Root are particularly effective in soothing the nervous system. They enhance GABA activity, leading to better sleep quality and reduced nervous tension. Their gentle yet potent effects are suitable for long-term use, offering a natural way to maintain mental calm.

Cognitive Enhancers

Cognitive Enhancers like Ginkgo Biloba and Bacopa Monnieri are not just helpful for memory and focus; they also play a role in stress management. By improving blood flow to the brain and balancing neurotransmitter levels, these extracts can help maintain cognitive clarity under stress, an essential for the professional woman's toolkit.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants, such as Green Tea Extract, which is rich in L-Theanine, offer a unique approach to stress management. They counteract oxidative stress and promote relaxation without drowsiness, enabling one to remain alert yet calm during demanding situations.

Applications

These natural extracts are versatile. In supplement form, they offer a concentrated, easy-to-consume solution.

Many, like Ashwagandha and Chamomile, can also be incorporated into recipes or teas, providing a therapeutic culinary experience which also encompasses the activities of preparation.

For those inclined towards gardening, herbs like Holy Basil and Lavender can be grown at home, adding a touch of greenery and tranquility to living spaces and extending the opportunity for therapeutic activity further still.