In today’s busy world, stress has become an unwelcome constant for so many. Whether it is work, family duties, or simply seeking refuge from the din of daily life, there are times when it seems like a luxury to get a moment of peace. Happily, nature provides us with a soothing but effective antidote to stress.
If you’re in search of calming, plant-based solutions for stress relief, these seven supplements have traditionally been used to alleviate anxiety symptoms.
1. Chamomile
Chamomile has been employed as an herbal remedy for calming for centuries. Traditionally taken in the form of tea, chamomile contains antioxidants such as apigenin, which bind to receptors within the brain and may help ease anxiety and induce sleep.
Chamomile can have a sedative effect, soothing the nerves and alleviating symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Various studies have revealed that chamomile extract has modest anti-anxiety benefits. Consume chamomile tea every day, or take capsules or tinctures for a highly concentrated dose.
2. Matcha Tea
Matcha, or finely ground powder composed of green tea leaves, has a special amino acid named L-theanine. This substance is said to induce relaxation without sleepiness and can counteract the energizing effects of caffeine.
L-theanine can boost levels of relaxing brain chemicals such as serotonin and GABA, which can ease stress and anxiety. Matcha also gives a gentle energy kick without the crash that comes with coffee. Whisk matcha powder into hot (but not boiling) water or milk for a calming beverage. L-theanine is also available separately as a supplement.
3. Valerian Root
Valerian root is also used as a natural sleep aid, but it’s also famous for its relaxing effect during the day. Valerian has been shown to increase the levels of GABA in the brain, a neurotransmitter that assists in mood and anxiety regulation. Although more research is warranted, some individuals find it useful in preventing tension and enhancing sleep. Available in teas, capsules, and tinctures—start with small doses to assess how it affects you, as it can be quite sedating for some.
4. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb used in Ayurvedic medicine to help the body cope with stress. Its active compounds, including withanolides, may reduce cortisol levels (the body’s stress hormone) and promote emotional balance.
Research has indicated that ashwagandha supplementation can beneficially lower stress and anxiety symptoms, especially in individuals experiencing chronic stress.
Available in powdered, capsule, or tincture form. Usually taken daily to build up benefits.
5. Kava
Kava root, which has been used traditionally by Pacific Island communities, has powerful anxiolytic properties. It’s one of the few herbal treatments to be supported by research evidence for the treatment of anxiety. Kavalactones, kava’s active ingredients, act on neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly GABA, and decrease anxiety and enhance relaxation, frequently without impacting alertness. It may be consumed in tea, tincture, or capsule form.
6. Cannabis
In this fast-paced, high-stress age, more and more people are seeking relief through natural remedies—and cannabis is one of the popular choices for finding calm without resorting to artificial medications. Famous for its calming properties, cannabis has chemicals such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) that play with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which among other things regulates stress, mood, and sleep.
THC is primarily responsible for the psychoactive “high” associated with cannabis, but in moderate doses, it can help melt away tension and anxiety. CBD, on the other hand, is non-intoxicating and known for its calming, anti-anxiety effects—making it a great option for relaxation without the buzz. Whether consumed through smoking, vaping, edibles, tinctures, or topicals, the key is to start with a low dose and find what works for your body.
Strains such as Indica or hybrids with relaxing terpenes (like myrcene or linalool) are particularly good for stress relief and relaxing after a long day.
7. Kratom
Kratom’s calming effects are due to its active alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which bind to opioid receptors in the brain. Although it doesn’t have the same powerful effects as pharmaceutical opioids, kratom can induce a feeling of calmness, physical relaxation, and emotional comfort—particularly at moderate doses.
Red vein kratom types are generally employed for relaxation. They are recognized for their sedating, calming properties that assist in relaxing an individual after a long working day or treating anxiety and insomnia symptoms. Green vein kratom provides a more moderate, balanced effect, whereas white vein kratom tends to be more stimulating.
kratom is available in powder, capsule, or as brewed tea form. It is best to use a low dose, as body chemistry and strain influence effects. Kratom is likely to be a mild stimulant and mood elevator at lower doses. It can be sedating and even calming at higher doses.
Relaxation doesn’t need to be complicated. You can try a more natural, balanced way of handling stress and cultivating your well-being through natural supplements. You can sip it, soak in it, or just put it on your skin, and they give you a gentle push toward tranquility in a world that never seems to slow down.
