Anxiety is a natural response of the body to threats or pressures from the environment, and very often, it is self-induced, such as perfectionism, high ambitions, social pressures, excessive demands, or workload. Anxiety manifests itself with a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms, thus affecting a person's ability to meet the demands of daily life. (Ion-George Anghelescu, 2018) Numerous studies have focused their research on the beneficial effects of plants and other ingredients in combating stress caused by modern lifestyles.
Rhodiola Rosea extract is known for its adaptogenic action and is an approved ingredient by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the Herbal Medicinal Products Committee (HMPC). It affects the release of stress hormones, offering comprehensive treatment of its symptoms and can prevent chronic stress and its complications. More specifically, Rhodiola Rosea is renowned for improving mental and physical performance, reducing symptoms of fatigue and depression, increasing productivity at work, and its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. (Emilija Ivanova Stojcheva, 2022)
Ashwagandha is a famous adaptogenic plant in Ayurvedic medicine, with root and leaf extracts showing remarkable action against stress and anxiety, while in some studies, it also seems to improve symptoms of depression and insomnia. (Alex B. Speers, 2021) Additionally, Tyrosine, a precursor of Dopamine and Norepinephrine, appears to effectively enhance cognitive performance, particularly in short-term stressful or cognitively demanding situations. (Bryant J. Jongkees, 2015)
Ginseng has traditionally been used as a medicinal herb due to its antioxidant properties. Beyond that, it has been shown to support many neurological processes, thus protecting the Central Nervous System, while also regulating the immune response and hormonal changes that may be caused by stress, thereby preventing the onset of psychological illnesses such as chronic anxiety and depression. (Seungyeop Lee, 2017)
Holy Basil is another herb of Ayurvedic medicine with antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and anti-stress properties. (Deepika Singh, 2018) It seems to have a beneficial effect on mental health due to its anxiolytic action, regulating mood changes and perception, thus providing mental calm and clarity. (Simranjeet Kaur, 2020) Furthermore, Eleutherococcus Senticosus extract is a medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine with effects on combating fatigue, improving sleep, and memory. (Xi-Tao Li, 2022)
Licorice is known for its antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, and its impact on the nervous system as a memory enhancer, as well as its antidepressant action. (Hassan Esmaeili, 2022)
Finally, the combination of Bioperine (an active ingredient from black pepper) enhances the absorption and bioavailability of the above nutrients. As a result, supplement formulas containing Bioperine ensure their maximum effectiveness and absorption by the body.
References
Ion-George Anghelescu, D. E. (2018). Stress management and the role of Rhodiola.
Simranjeet Kaur, S. S. (2020). An overview of Tulsi (Holy basil).
Katerina Petridou - Dietitian, Nutritionist
