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Are there any natural products to lower cortisol? I can't shift lower abdominal fat & I think this may be why.

Naturopath's Answer

Are there any natural products to lower cortisol? I can't shift lower abdominal fat & I think this may be why.
Stress hormones produced by the adrenals (cortisol and adrenaline) are released when we are experiencing stressful situations. This is called the "flight or fight" response. The first response is a release of Adrenaline, Norepinephrine and Cortisol from the Adrenal Glands. This gets the blood moving straight to the skeletal muscles in preparation for a fight or confrontation. If you are constantly in this state of overdrive then other organs and systems such as the thyroid, energy production and liver function may not work as effectively, for some people this means difficulty loosing weight.

Herbs that promote integrity and strength of the nervous system while reducing cortisol levels are:
* Withania reduces cortisol production from the adrenals and has adaptogenic, anti-stress, anxiolytic, anti-depressant and mild sedative qualities to help calm the mind and spirit.
* Magnolia is a gentle nervous system herb that may help to ease feelings of anxiety due to its anxiolytic, anti- depressant, carminative effects.
* Chamomile is a very nourishing herb for the nervous system. Chamomile is a relaxant and calminative.
* Zizyphus has a tonifying effect on the nervous system and is a gentle sedative and relaxant.
* Passionflower is indicated for people whom experience nervousness, palpitations and sleep problems, its effects are anxiolytic, relaxant and work to calm the overactive nerves.
* Other herbs which are used to promote nervous system integrity and have an effect on lowering cortisol levels are St Johns Work, Licorice, Siberian Ginseng and Oats
Listed below are some other complimentary natural remedies to improve the for dealing with stress:
* One common nutrient deficiency seen when the nerves are strung out is the family of B Vitamins, specifically B5 and B5. These vitamins are exhausted when cortisol production is over stimulated.
* Magnesium is a vital nutrient for feeding the nerves and muscles and is depleted easily during times of stress.
* Australian Bush flower remedies may help to take the edge off anxiety and promote a sense of wellbeing while repatterning the stress responses. Black Eyed Susan, Bauhinia, Crowea, Dog Rose, Gymea Lily, Jacaranda, Paw Paw,and Southern Cross.
* It is imperative to support the adrenals when addressing cortisol. The adrenal glands are responsible for producing stress hormones and when they are overfunctioning during stressful situations they can become exhausted. The above mentioned herbs and nutrients are nourishing to the adrenals due to their adaptogenic effects
* Bach Flower Rescue Remedy may help to ease the burden of stress and tension caused by emotional trauma.
*There are many techniques and practises to help avoid getting caught in the vicious cycle of stress responses (so prevalent in this complex modern society) for examples - Relaxation therapies, meditation, aromatherapy, deep breathing, exercise, psychological techniques and nutritional support.


The information presented on this page has been prepared by a fully qualified naturopath and is for educational purposes only. It does not take into consideration your specific circumstances and is not intended to replace the services of a health practitioner. Any application of the material in this text is at the reader’s discretion and sole responsibility. If you have a persistent health condition or your symptoms are severe please consult a qualified healthcare provider.