People have been using herbs, plants, and flowers to treat and prevent illness for thousands of years. Chinese medicine and homeopathy are practices which use a variety of plants as medicines. Recent research has shown that some plants can actually help to reduce stress hormones in the body. High levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) will send the body into "fight or flight" mode, which means you will have elevated levels of adrenaline and noradrenaline. If you do not treat this state by either dealing with the stress (fight) or exercising (flight), it can become problematic for the body. Acute stress is not a bad thing necessarily. Healthy people can deal with the stress and the body will return to homeostasis. Acute stress can cause an increase in performance

due to the high adrenaline and increased energy mobilization.
       Having chronic stress in your life destroys the homeostasis or balance in the body. When cortisol is elevated for long periods of time, the body will essentially start to shut down. The immune system is taxed and weakens, heart rate and blood pressure are elevated, liver function is compromised, glucose tolerance is impaired and the digestive system functions less efficiently. Serum cholesterol and fats become elevated and sexual dysfunction is also common, as is muscular pain.
        Many people suffer from chronic stress due to their jobs, family life, or financial situations. It is very important to recognize when we are stressed and deal with it accordingly. Eventually chronic stress can lead to degenerative disease and serious health problems like metabolic dysfunction, diabetes, and osteoporosis just to name a few. Chronic stress can make one irritable, achy and exhausted, which can make self care seem very challenging.
        I highly recommend regular mild, moderate, and intense exercise to combat stress, along with emotional support, rest, a good diet, and supplements to help to restore the body to its natural state. There are many types of plants that can help to reduce stress and cortisol levels including astralgus, holy basil, rhodiola (the biggie), licorice root, maca, and ginger. I have experienced adrenal fatigue a few times, and always keep adaptogens in my cupboard.
       It is very important to recognize when we are starting to get stressed and take the steps to ensure that we are supported. Reaching out to family, friends or a health care provider is a great first step. Although it can be tempting to shut others out when exhausted, support is necessary. Learning meditation to calm ones mind and help relax is one of the best ways to deal with stressors and ensure a good nights rest.