There are days when even the small things seem very troublesome. It is quite uncommon to feel stress and anxiety over minor matters, and many rely on tablets to just get by the day. While consuming prescribed medicines is favourable, it also comes with side effects and makes one dependent on them, potentially leading to long-term health complications.
To avoid this situation, maintaining a balance of mind, body, and spirit has become a necessity in this day and age. Yet, many hardly get time away from work to focus on health and well-being. But did you know you can bring a positive change in your life effortlessly just by adding certain spices to your food can help reduce stress and anxiety?
If you are one of those people who struggle with anxiety and stress quite often, it is time for you to move over to the drugs and pills and start savouring the health benefits of spices. After consuming these 6 Indian spices daily, you will witness a transformation in your life sooner than you think.
6 Indian Spices And Herbs Works Wonders For Stress And Anxiety
1) Black Cumin
Black Cumin or Nigella Sativa works as a powerful remedy to get relief from stress and anxiety. In studies, the Thymoquinone found in black cumin oil has been linked with improving sleep quality and alleviating stress and anxiety. Its therapeutic benefits have been widely used in treating ailments related to the nervous system and also treating diseases like memory impairment, epilepsy, neurotoxicity, and pain, all backed by scientific research. You can consume black cumin oil daily as a supplement and also mix the oil with honey or lemon juice.
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2) Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, scientifically known as Withania somnifera, is one of the most energising and rejuvenating herbs which has been used in Ayurvedic practices to prepare various medicines for thousands of years. In medicinal studies conducted by NIH to test the efficacy of Ashwagandha against stress and anxiety, this herb has been reported to actively reduce stress levels and improve sleep quality. Ashwagandha has also proven effective in reducing depression. You can consume Ashwagandha with ½ teaspoon ashwagandha powder in boiled water and drink it an hour before going to bed.
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3) Brahmi
Brahmi or Bacopa monnieri has been a staple in Ayurvedic medicines for years. It is linked with boosting brain function and alleviating anxiety and stress. Brahmi contains anxiolytic, antidepressant, and sleep-promoting effects which have been proven by NIH studies to be effective in treating generalised anxiety disorder. Furthermore, brahmi was also found effective in decreasing blood pressure in prehypertensive stages and decreasing the severity. You can consume brahmi as a juice, churana, capsule, tablet, or infuse it in daily meals.
4) Tulsi
Tulsi or Indian Basil is the holiest plant in Hindu culture which is often consumed as a refreshing addition to tea and various dishes. Tulsi’s rejuvenating properties make it a remarkable remedy for treating chronic stress and help in calming down the senses. Not only the essence and extracts of tulsi, its aroma also induces relaxation in the body. As backed by NIH Studies, tulsi have antimicrobial properties along with being an excellent antioxidant, anti-cataract, and anti-inflammatory herb. Consuming leaves of tulsi directly or adding them to tea or meals will help you get the best of this herb.
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5) Garlic
Garlic or Allium sativum has been linked with improving anxiety and depression. The allicin present in garlic keeps heart diseases at bay and also reduces damages caused by free radicals, which in turn alleviates anxiety and depression. Along with this, garlic also boosts the immune system and its antioxidants neutralise free radicals in the body. The research conducted by NIH on diseased rats backs the ability of garlic to reduce anxiety and depression-related behaviours. Consuming garlic in meals will help you savour its health benefits.
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6) Turmeric
Curcumin present in turmeric has been associated with the treatment of depression as backed by scientific research. The potential benefits of turmeric have been celebrated in Ayurveda for ages and have proven beneficial against various ailments. To this day, most people turn to turmeric when they feel discomfort and suffer from acute illnesses like seasonal cough and colds. More than this, turmeric can be your remedy for depression and anxiety and fill you with warming health benefits. Research has shown that curcumin’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anticancer, antimicrobial, and cardioprotective effects are effective in treating mental stress. You can consume turmeric milk before sleeping or infusing the spice in your meals to savour the benefits.
Also Read: 6 Indian Spices For Boosting Heart Health
These spices can be your ultimate antidote for treating anxiety and stress disorders. If you face frequent discomfort regarding these mental issues, consider adding these spices to your diet alongside taking daily medicines and see the difference yourself.