Two dark brown bottles with "fushi" labels, suggesting health supplements, possibly Ashwagandha and Brahmi, known for their stress-relieving properties. There's also a glass of water, all placed on a textured white surface. Overlay text reads "Supportive

Unfortunately, in recent years, there has been an increase in the number of people suffering from chronic stress and poor-quality sleep. Anxiety, low mood, brain fog and fatigue are common symptoms that can arise as a result. 

 

Those leading hectic lifestyles or experiencing high stress levels may have greater micronutrient requirements and benefit from holistic strategies, including using botanicals and herbs to support sleep, relaxation, anxiety and stress. 



 

What Herbs Help and Support Sleep, Relaxation and Stress Levels?

 

Passion Flower

A small amber glass bottle with a white label for "Passion Flower Tincture" (Passiflora incarnata) from G Baldwin & Co. The label features a decorative red motif above the product name. The bottle cap is black, and the simple design indicates a herbal remedy product.

Passion flower otherwise known as Passiflora, is an indigenous American flowering vine that has been traditionally used as a herbal aid for insomnia and anxiety. Its actions are thought to be associated with the modulation of GABA. This neurotransmitter naturally reduces activity in the central nervous system, resulting in enhanced mood, relaxation and healthy sleep.1 Passion Flower can be taken before bedtime or at any time of day when you are looking to unwind.   

 

Valerian

A close-up of a dried Valerian Root herbal mixture with varying shades of brown, showing a blend of chopped roots and bark. The texture suggests a coarse grind, typically used for making herbal teas or extracts.

Valerian is a herb traditionally used for insomnia and nervous disorders. Research has provided evidence demonstrating Valerian’s sedative and anti-anxiety effects.2 It is the root extract of valerian that is used in herbal supplements. Valerian root liquid drops comes in an alcohol-free format that offers a concentrated dose and fast absorption.  

 

Scullcap 

A small amber glass bottle with a white label for "Scullcap Tincture" (Scutellaria lateriflora) from G Baldwin & Co. The label is adorned with a decorative red motif around the word "TINCTURE". The bottle has a black cap, and the branding suggests a focus on natural health products.

Scullcap is a herb native to North America. In herbal traditions, Scullcap is classified as a nerve tonic. It is thought to calm the nerves positively by stimulating the neurotransmitter GABA.3

It has been traditionally used as a supportive aid for anxiety and insomnia. 

How Do Adaptogens Work to Support Resilience and Relaxation?

 

An adaptogen refers to a substance that promotes body adaptation to mental, physical, and environmental stressors. They are thought to have the capacity to normalise body functions and strengthen systems compromised by stress. They are thought to recognise the needs of the body, and help to create balance in the right direction. 

 

Adaptogens can exert many influences on the body and are known to support energy and stamina, improve mood, sleep and cognitive performance and reduce anxiety. They also may help the endocrine, immune and inflammatory systems. 

 

Ashwagandha 

A bottle of Fushi brand "fresh ground organic ASHWAGANDHA WHOLEFOOD SUPPLEMENT" with 60 capsules. The bottle is dark amber with a green label, featuring a graphic of ashwagandha roots and a small yellow flower, indicating a natural health product.

Ashwagandha is one of the most prized botanicals in the Ayurvedic system of healing. Clinical research looking into the adaptogenic and anti-anxiety effects of ashwagandha have found that the root extract may help to reduce serum cortisol levels (a hormone released by the adrenals in response to stress). In notable studies, ashwagandha has been observed to improve sleep quality, sleep onset, general wellbeing and reduction of anxiety.

 

In the format of alcohol-free liquid drops Ashwagandha root is rapidly absorbed. This format is perfect for those wanting to take ashwagandha to support sleep before bedtime or at any time of day to promote wellbeing. 

 

Reishi 

A bottle of REISHI mushroom extract tincture, with a dropper cap. The label showcases a vibrant illustration of a reishi mushroom against a background of branching patterns, possibly hinting at the mushroom's intricate mycelium network.

Known as “the mushroom of immortality” in the East, Reishi has been traditionally used to promote vitality and overall good health. It has a long history of use in cases of insomnia, anxiety and debility (from prolonged illness).6 Classified by herbalists as an ‘adaptogenic’ herb, it has been used to support the body’s resilience to physical, mental and environmental stressors. Reishi mushroom contains a host of biologically active compounds including polysaccharides (α/β-D-glucans). These polysaccharides have been reported to possess immunomodulatory actions. These properties are found in the fruiting body of the mushroom. 

A concentrated liquid extract of Reishi fruiting body provides fast delivery into the body.  

 

Healthy Habits And Tips for Promoting Quality Sleep And Stress Reduction

 

  1. For some, practising meditation and mindfulness can be really helpful, and for others, talking to a friend may help put things into perspective. Boosting endorphin levels through exercise can also increase feelings of resilience and wellbeing. 
  2. Relaxation rituals such as hot baths with essential oils can help with unwinding muscle tension and stress
  3. Switch off blue-light emitting devices at least one hour before bedtime 
  4. Be compassionate towards yourself and take time to reflect
  5. Be in the moment and take one thing at a time!

 

Enjoy a restful sleep and stress-free days with Baldwin’s range of natural herbs and supplements. Shop the wide range of healing herbs at Baldwins today. 

Written by Isabelle Nunn, Kinetic 4 Health.

References:

  • Elsas, S. M., et al. (2010). Passiflora incarnata L. (Passionflower) extracts elicit GABA currents in hippocampal neurons in vitro, and show anxiogenic and anticonvulsant effects in vivo, varying with extraction method. Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology, 17(12), 940–949. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2010.03.002
  • Shinjyo, N., et al. (2020). Valerian Root in Treating Sleep Problems and Associated Disorders-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of evidence-based integrative medicine, 25, 2515690X20967323. https://doi.org/10.1177/2515690X20967323
  • Savage, K., et al. (2018). GABA-modulating phytomedicines for anxiety: A systematic review of preclinical and clinical evidence. Phytotherapy research: PTR, 32(1), 3–18. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.5940
  • Kelgane, S. B., et al. (2020). Efficacy and Tolerability of Ashwagandha Root Extract in the Elderly for Improvement of General Well-being and Sleep: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Study. Cureus, 12(2), e7083. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.7083
  • Langade, D., et al. (2019). Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Insomnia and Anxiety: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Study. Cureus, 11(9), e5797. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.5797
  • El Sheikha A. F. (2022). Nutritional Profile and Health Benefits of Ganoderma lucidum "Lingzhi, Reishi, or Mannentake" as Functional Foods: Current Scenario and Future Perspectives. Foods (Basel, Switzerland), 11(7), 1030. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods11071030