Herbs for Hectic Times
by author Rand Smith, Herbalist

In addition to herbs, there are many vitamins and nutrients helpful in the treatment of nervous system disorders. Studies have shown that individuals taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement experience less anxiety and an enhanced ability to cope with stressful circumstances.

Inadequate intake of the B-complex vitamins can lead to anxiety, apprehension, vague or morbid fears, unusual fatigue, insomnia, indigestion and severe depression. A B-complex supplement can relieve stress and promote relaxation.

Vitamin B₁ (thiamine), for example, helps ensure carbohydrate tolerance. The therapeutic dose ranges from 50 to 3,000 milligrams daily, though the highest doses are very seldom used.

Vitamin B₆ (pyridoxine) is required for the conversion of tryptophan to soothing serotonin. Therapeutic doses range from 50 to 500 mg daily, though 100 mg is usually adequate.

Vitamin B₁₂ (cobalamin), essential for nerve cell metabolism, has been prescribed for years for patients with fatigue. Using a tablet or sublingual lozenges, the therapeutic range is 50 micrograms to 2,000 mg. A good starting dose is 100 mcg a day.

5-HTP (5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan) is another useful supplement. It’s a metabolite of the amino acid L-tryptophan and the precursor to serotonin and melatonin, two brain chemicals necessary for preventing anxiety, facilitating sleep, regulating mood and controlling appetite. 5-HTP can be obtained in synthetic form or as an extract from the Griffonia simplicifolicia plant. Use as directed.

The average North American has far less free time now than ever before in human history. Most of us are simply too busy to relax and enjoy life, and this has a drastic impact on our health. Herbs are not an anachronistic throwback to a bygone era. Rather, herbs are a much-needed tool to strengthen our "nerve power" so we can more readily relax and manage the stresses in our lives. Taken internally or in a therapeutic herbal bath, and with key nutrients on the side, herbs are a valuable component in any relaxation program.

Kava Under a Cloud

Kava kava, the popular herbal relaxant, is making people nervous these days. In the last few years, more than 24 cases of severe liver damage have been reported in German and Swiss users. In Britain and France, kava has voluntarily been pulled from the shelves or suspended. Health Canada is advising consumers to avoid the best-selling herb.

The exact cause of the problem is still unclear. In 18 of the 24 cases, kava users were also taking drugs with known or potential liver toxicity. Strangely, there have been no reports of liver damage among the millions of Canadian and US users. Still, it is wise to err on the side of caution. So avoid kava if:

• you have liver disease
• you’re taking drugs that can cause liver damage
• you drink a lot of alcohol
• you’ve developed symptoms of jaundice while on kava (dark urine, yellowing of the eyes)
• you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
• you’re allergic to pepper.

Bathe Away Anxiety

The skin is the largest organ of the body. It will readily absorb the healing properties of any herb in a therapeutic herbal bath. At the same time, the nose will absorb the relaxing aromas of such volatile herbs as camomile and lavender. Throw a handful of soothing herbs into your bath water. You can also try adding four cups of Epsom salts to the tub; the magnesium content will help you rest like a tired child upon its mother’s bosom.

A herbalist with 10 years of experience, Rand Smith is a lecturer, local television and radio guest, and regular contributor to several health magazines. He currently works at the Spectrum Health Centre, an integrated centre in Winnipeg, Man.

Source: alive #234, April 2002