Nutrients and botanicals for treatment of stress: adrenal fatigue, neurotransmitter imbalance, anxiety, and restless sleep

Altern Med Rev. 2009 Jun;14(2):114-40.

Abstract

Research shows a dramatic increase in use of the medical system during times of stress, such as job insecurity. Stress is a factor in many illnesses - from headaches to heart disease, and immune deficiencies to digestive problems. A substantial contributor to stress-induced decline in health appears to be an increased production of stress hormones and subsequent decreased immune function. Non-pharmaceutical approaches have much to offer such patients. This article focuses on the use of nutrients and botanicals to support the adrenals, balance neurotransmitters, treat acute anxiety, and support restful sleep.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Drugs, Chinese Herbal / administration & dosage
  • Fish Oils / administration & dosage
  • Humans
  • Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System / drug effects*
  • Phytotherapy / methods*
  • Pituitary-Adrenal System / drug effects*
  • Plant Extracts / administration & dosage*
  • Plants, Medicinal
  • Stress, Physiological / drug effects*
  • Trace Elements / administration & dosage
  • Tyrosine / administration & dosage
  • Vitamins / administration & dosage

Substances

  • Drugs, Chinese Herbal
  • Fish Oils
  • Plant Extracts
  • Trace Elements
  • Vitamins
  • Tyrosine