Over-the-Counter Medicine for Stress

As daily lives become more chaotic and stressful, people look for convenient and affordable ways to reduce stress. Over time, the body builds up a tolerance to nonprescription pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, which limits their effectiveness and makes them a poor option for taking on a daily basis for the purpose of managing the effects of stress. Many other nonprescription stress-management remedies can be easily purchased at any well-stocked drugstore or grocery store.

Investigate vitamin supplements

• Vitamins can help the body better cope with the effects of stress. Vitamin C helps the immune system function properly and assists in the production of the stress-managing hormone cortisol. B-complex vitamins are necessary to produce the brain-calming compound serotonin. Vitamins A and E contain stress-fighting antioxidants. Vitamin and mineral supplements, generally found in pill form, are widely available. Proprietary blends of several different vitamins and minerals, sometimes designed specifically for stress reduction, can be purchased as well. Multivitamin blends may be particularly helpful: A clinical study in Germany in 2002 demonstrated that adults who took a daily multivitamin showed a 40 percent reduction in stress levels after six months.

Explore herbal remedies

• Stress might also be reduced through ingesting herbal and folk remedies. Kava, an herb found in Indonesia and the Polynesian islands, is thought to relieve stress, relax muscles and encourage sleep. Valerian is an herb with sedative properties, which can soothe a troubled nervous system. When consumed, the leaves and flowers of St. John's wort boost endorphins, which might be effective in countering stress and mild depression. These herbal remedies may be purchased in pill or tablet form in grocery stores, drugstores and shops specializing in natural foods. Ingesting the root of the ginseng plant is thought to increase energy and concentration, which might be of some use in lowering stress levels. Ginseng comes in many preparations, including pills, tonics, teas and even candy and gum. The blossoms of the chamomile flower, which are dried and steeped in hot water to make a popular herbal tea, have a mild tranquilizing effect and can soothe an upset digestive system. Chamomile tea is available in all grocery stores and is gentle enough to drink several times a day. Whole oats have antidepressant properties. Simply eating a bowl of oatmeal daily might have some positive effect on stress levels.