Kava Kava:
A pungent herb used for centuries by islanders in the South Pacific to soothe frayed nerves. It has been proved as effective as mainstream tranquillisers such as Valium in relaxing both muscles and emotions. A member of the pepper family, kava kava has no sedative side-effects and is said to sharpen concentration and memory. It is available as a tincture, tea or in tablet form.
Milk:
During the day or before bed, calm down with a glass of milk. Milk releases the amino acid trypto-phan, necessary for the formation of serotonin. And raising the level of serotonin in the brain has a soothing and tranquillising effect on the body, increasing your sense of wellbeing. Don't drink your milk with a protein-rich food such as meat or chicken, though, because the amino acids in these foods compete with the tryptophan to get to the brain first, so interrupting the effective production of serotonin.
Camomile:
The white petalled flowers of the camomile plant are often used in infusions to calm nervous tension and aid sleep.
A gentle but effective relaxant that does not interfere with concentration, camomile is also beneficial against stress-related stomach upsets and can safely be given to hyperactive children.
Ginseng:
Siberian ginseng has been proved to stave off tiredness and strengthen the body's ability to deal with stresses of all sorts. It is an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adapt to stressful situations by stimulating the endocrine glands, including the adrenal gland, and keeping the body in harmony. Its beneficial effects appear to be cumulative and remain with you long after you stop taking the herb.
Valerian:
The herb valerian is often used in the treatment of digestive disorders, but its use as a nerve and brain tonic is also well documented. Traditionally believed to restore straight thinking and memory, valerian is the preferred choice of many herbalists for the management of stress and nervous exhaustion. If you have insomnia, it is best taken, like camomile, an hour before bed.
Bananas:
The old adage that an apple a day keeps the doctor away can also be applied to bananas. Eating bananas can rid the body of anxiety and aid restful sleep. During times of tension, stress hormones drain magnesium from the body's cells, weakening the immune system and increasing feelings of tiredness. Researchers have discovered that eating magnesium-rich foods, such as bananas, provides a boost to flagging energy levels.
Zinc:
If you are restless and agitated, irritable and jumpy at the slightest noise, or even if you have a nervous twitch, then you may have a deficiency of zinc. An essential trace element for normal growth, zinc replacement is often prescribed by homeopaths to relieve mental and physical exhaustion. If you prefer not to take a supplement, eat plenty of shellfish, nuts and seeds.
Passion flower:
More potent than camomile, passion flower counters a hyperactive mind. If you can't sit still or your mind is full of things you have to do tomorrow, then this remedy is for you. Its sedative properties will promote relaxation and sleep. Taken during the day, its effect will not disrupt concentration or make you drowsy.
Vitamin B:
A full spectrum vitamin B complex can help if you are suffering from low energy levels. Found in greater quantities in foods such as brewer's yeast, wheat germ and liver, vitamin B complex is vital for processing the energy transfer from food to fuel. The greater the stress, the higher the demand.
Calming foods:
Complex carbohydrates such as cereals, wholemeal bread, pasta and potatoes will keep blood sugar levels stable throughout the day, and level out the peaks and troughs of mood swings caused by too little starch or too much sugary food. Mushrooms are good, too. They are full of vitamin B12 and zinc, important in helping to combat anxiety, stress, depression and fatigue. ( dailymail.co.uk )
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