Ways to Reduce Cortisol With Herbs

Stress is often seen as a major cause of illness and unhappiness. Blocking cortisol, the hormone that is often referred to as "the stress hormone," may help relieve some of the symptoms that result from a stress-filled lifestyle. Cortisol raises blood pressure and blood sugar in reaction to stress and anxiety. While it is important to keep in mind that sometimes stress is necessary, there are many ways to ease the reactions of cortisol in your body.

B Vitamins

• Many vitamins and minerals can help your body deal with the effects of raised cortisol levels. The B vitamins, well known for their energy properties, help with stress relief as well. As a group that functions interdependently, the B vitamins help to manufacture brain chemicals that heighten alertness and mood, they manufacture adrenal gland hormones and they keep you awake. All of these functions help to balance cortisol. Dr. Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr. of Bastyr University recommends a B-complex vitamin formula with 50 to 75 milligrams of B6, 500 micrograms of B12 and 100 to 500 milligrams of pantothenic acid.

Other Vitamins and Minerals

• After aerobic exercise, magnesium supplements can help to decrease the levels of serum cortisol levels. Cortisol brought on by stress can be lowered by Omega 3 fatty acids. The Omega 3s suppress the synthesis of interleukin-6 and interleukin-1, which promote the release of cortisol. Vitamin C also has the ability to dull the release of cortisol in reaction to a mental stressor. Chromium and Vanadium have also been noted as potential cortisol lowering minerals, clinical research has so far been somewhat limited.

Herbs

• Americans spend $120 to $400 million dollars a year on ginseng, which can be used to boost energy, improve mental and physical performance, restore vitality,and protect the body from negative effects of stress and cortisol. According to respected health journalist Michael Castleman, ginseng is actually known to maintain and tone the health of adrenal glands, making the body's initial reaction to stress less potent. Kava, an herb, was found in a 2001 clinical trial to help people wind down and relax muscles that are feeling tension. The herb contains chemicals called kavalactones that lead to anti-anxiety effects. Valerian root, St. John's Wort, green tea, and Holy Basil are also used to reduce cortisol.

  These herbal remedies have not been studied as extensively as ginseng and Kava. Consult a doctor before using them.

Warning

• Regulating hormone levels is something that should be discussed with your doctor. There are both positive and negative traits to cortisol, and you should make sure that lowering the level of hormone is a good idea for your particular condition and circumstances.