If you ask any woman today, she's likely to tell you that stress is a big part of her life. Herbs can be very effective tools in stress management. When we think about stress, we often think about tension, anxiety, pressures, and fatigue. A holistic herbal approach to treating stress will reduce those symptoms, but will actually do much more.

While there is no magic bullet, herbs can be incredibly effective in preventing and treating stress. Herbs tonify the whole body and make the person able to withstand stress better.

Eleuthero root has well documented studies that demonstrate its ability to improve stamina, energy and immune function. The Indian herb Ashwaganda is also useful for enhancing energy. If sleep is an issue, herbs that enhance sleep, such as clover, hops, linden, and chamomile may be beneficial. Ginkgo and gota-kola may help with concentration. Herbs such as skullcap and motherwort may reduce feelings of anxiety.

There are countless combinations of herbs that can be used to prevent and relieve stress. In addition, there are many herbs such as nettle and raspberry leaf that are rich in calcium and B vitamins, substances known to enhance relaxation.

Herbs can be incorporated into a stress relieving plan in many ways. One of the best ways to ingest herbs for relaxation and stress release is to simply brew a delicious cup of herb tea, find a comfortable chair, and put your feet up in a relaxing environment such as a garden.

Another way is to incorporate them into a soothing bath or a massage with fragrant herbal lotions or creams such as lavender or jasmine. Alternatively, herbs such as rosemary or mint can be used in skin care providing the benefits of beauty, refreshment and invigoration.

For many, planting a fragrant and beautiful patch of herbs provides peace, exercise and a place of quiet meditation, all incredible opportunities to reduce stress, restore wholeness, joy and well-being.

Pat Bratianu is an RN with 31 years of nursing experience and a PhD in Natural Heath. She is the owner of Simply Health, a consulting herbal and educational practice. For more information call 321-727-7273, email [email protected] or visit www.simplyhealthdoc.com.