Stress Relief By Bluebonnet Targeted Choice Overview & Drug Interactions

Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is a herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is native to India, and is used to treat a variety of conditions, including stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Some studies have also suggested that ashwagandha may have potential health benefits for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. However, more research is needed. Ashwagandha is often referred to as an adaptogenic herb, which is theorized to help the body to adapt to stress.

Theanine, often referred to as L-theanine as that is the predominant isomer of theanine, is an amino acid commonly found in tea leaves, particularly in green tea. It is purported to increase levels of GABA, serotonin, and dopamine in the brain, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. L-theanine may also promote a sense of calm and improve overall well-being. Some studies have also suggested that it may improve cognitive function, although more research is needed. Most reported drug interactions with theanine are due to its sedative effects.

Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is a plant native to Asia and a member of the Araliaceae family. It is also commonly known as 'Siberian ginseng' or 'eleuthero root'. The root of the plant is used in traditional medicine for its purported ability to improve physical and mental performance, boost the immune system, and reduce fatigue. It is also claimed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Eleuthero is often referred to as an 'adaptogen'. Adaptogens are believed to help the body resist stress. It is important to note that although eleuthero is known as 'Siberian ginseng', it is not related to Panax ginseng.

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is a climbing vine with fragrant white and purple flowers that is native to the Americas. It is purported to have a number of potential health benefits, including reducing anxiety and improving sleep. It is thought to work by increasing the levels of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps regulate mood and anxiety. Passionflower may also have mild sedative and muscle-relaxing effects and may be helpful in the treatment of muscle spasms and other muscle disorders. Dietary supplements containing passionflower are generally standardized to contain no less than 1.5% of the flavanoid vitexin.

Rhodiola is a type of plant native to the Arctic regions of Europe and Asia. It is also known as "golden root" or "arctic root." The roots and rhizomes of Rhodiola are commonly used in dietary supplements for their purported effects as an 'adaptogen', which are used to improve physical and mental performance, reduce fatigue, and enhance the ability to cope with stress. Rhodiola is believed to work by increasing the production of certain chemicals in the brain (e.g., serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine) that are involved in mood and energy regulation. Rhodiola supplements are often standardized to a specific amount of their rosavin and salidroside content.

Basil is an herb that is native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa and is commonly used in cooking to add flavor to a variety of dishes. It is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is known for its fragrant, sweet, and slightly spicy aroma. Basil also has a history of medicinal use and has been used for headache, stomach spasms, flatulence, diarrhea, constipation, peptic ulcers, kidney conditions, the common cold, warts, and parasite infections. Studies of basil show it is a rich source of vitamin C, carotenoids, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron. It is also used as an essential oil, which contains linalool, estragole (methyl chavicol), eugenol, methyl cinnamate, o-cymene, citral, alpha-pinene, camphene, beta-pinene, gamma-terpinene, cineole, menthol, rosmarinic acid, geraniol, and geranial.