By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Stress
Herbal capsules for stress are natural supplements made from plant extracts that have been traditionally used to calm the mind and body.
They work by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep quality, helping individuals cope with daily stressors. Examples of herbal capsules that help with stress include passionflower, kava, and valerian root.
For instance, passionflower capsules have been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and insomnia in studies, while kava capsules have been used for centuries to promote relaxation and calmness.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for stress, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Withania somnifera
- 2. Valeriana officinalis
- 3. Lavandula angustifolia
- 4. Passiflora incarnata
- 5. Piper methysticum
- 6. Hypericum perforatum
- 7. Matricaria chamomilla
- 8. Melissa officinalis
- 9. Scutellaria lateriflora
- 10. Humulus lupulus
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for stress?
- What ailments similar to stress are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Withania somnifera
Ashwagandha capsules helps with stress because they contain a powerful herb that has been used for centuries to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
The unique combination of compounds in ashwagandha, including withanolides and amino acids, works to calm the mind and body, reducing cortisol levels and alleviating feelings of overwhelm and fatigue.
As a result, individuals can better manage stress and cope with the demands of daily life, leading to improved overall well-being and a sense of calm and clarity.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera capsules that help with stress.
- Withanolides: These alkaloids have been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing oxidative stress and promoting relaxation, thus alleviating stress.
- Withaferin a: This triterpenoid saponin has been shown to have a neuroprotective effect by reducing cortisol levels and improving sleep quality, which are both crucial in managing stress.
- Ashwagandhans a and b: These withanolides have been found to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties by modulating the body's stress response, thereby reducing stress and anxiety levels.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make capsules for stress.
- Roots: They are the primary source of bioactive compounds, including withanolides, which are responsible for the plant's medicinal properties.
- Leaves: Although less used than roots, leaves of Withania somnifera also contain withanolides, making them a viable alternative for stress relief.
- Seeds: Seeds of the plant are known to contain withanolides and other compounds that contribute to its stress-relieving properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for stress.
- Harvest 500 grams of dried withania somnifera roots from a trusted supplier for consistency.
- Grind 400 grams of the harvested roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 5 minutes.
- Mix 200 grams of the powdered roots with 100 grams of excipient powder in a 2:1 ratio.
- Fill 500 empty gelatin capsules with a mixture of 0.5 gram of the powder mixture and 0.1 gram of filler powder.
- Label and store the herbal capsules in a cool dark place for up to 24 months.
2. Valeriana officinalis
Valerian capsules helps with stress because they promote relaxation and calmness, allowing individuals to better cope with anxiety-provoking situations.
The herb contains a unique compound called valerenic acid, which interacts with the brain's neurotransmitters to slow down nervous activity and induce a sense of tranquility.
This natural sedative effect enables people to fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly, while also reducing symptoms of restlessness, irritability, and fatigue often associated with stress.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis capsules that help with stress.
- Valerenic acid: This terpene helps with stress by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety by interacting with the GABA receptors in the brain, which regulate calmness and relaxation.
- Isovaleric acid: This fatty acid has a sedative effect, helping to reduce stress and anxiety by slowing down brain activity and promoting a sense of calmness.
- Valeranone: This sesquiterpene has a sedative effect, helping to reduce stress and anxiety by interacting with the GABA receptors in the brain, which regulate calmness and relaxation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make capsules for stress.
- Roots: Valerian root is a common ingredient in stress relief supplements due to its high concentration of valerenic acids, which have a sedative effect on the nervous system.
- Seeds: Valerian seeds are sometimes used in supplements as they contain compounds that may help regulate sleep patterns and reduce stress.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for stress.
- Harvest valeriana officinalis roots in the fall or early spring when the plant is in a dormant state.
- Dry the roots in a well-ventilated area at 30-40°c for 1-2 weeks to reduce moisture content.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice grinder.
- Mix the powdered root with a binding agent like gelatin or starch in a 1:1 ratio.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the powder mixture and seal them securely for storage.
3. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender capsules helps with stress because they contain a concentrated form of the calming and soothing properties found in lavender flowers.
The capsules promote relaxation, ease anxiety, and calm the mind and body.
As the herb is known for its ability to reduce cortisol levels and promote a sense of tranquility, it can be used as a natural way to manage daily stress and promote a good night's sleep.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia capsules that help with stress.
- Linalool: Linalool is a terpene that helps reduce stress by promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality due to its sedative properties.
- Linalyl acetate: Linalyl acetate is a terpene that helps alleviate stress by reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calmness through its anxiolytic effects.
- Luteolin: Luteolin is a flavonoid that helps mitigate stress by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby promoting overall well-being and reducing anxiety.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make capsules for stress.
- Flowers: Lavandula angustifolia flowers are widely used due to their calming and sedative properties, which help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Leaves: The leaves of Lavandula angustifolia contain essential oils, which are known to have a soothing effect on the mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety.
- Seeds: Lavandula angustifolia seeds are also used, but to a lesser extent, as they contain saponins, which have a calming effect on the nervous system and help alleviate stress.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for stress.
- Harvest fresh dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in large quantities ideally during the morning to avoid moisture accumulation.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a well-ventilated area at a temperature of 35-40°c for 24-48 hours.
- Crush the dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle at a ratio of 1:1 for 30 minutes.
- Mix 400mg of the powder with 400mg of gelatin and 50mg of glycerin in a capsule mold for 10 minutes.
- Fill the capsule mold with the mixture and seal it with a capsule machine at a temperature of 40-50°c for 10 minutes.
4. Passiflora incarnata
Maypop capsules helps with stress because they contain Passiflora incarnata, a natural herb that has been used for centuries to calm the mind and body.
The capsules promote relaxation by interacting with the brain's GABA receptors, helping to reduce anxiety and restlessness. Additionally, maypop has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate physical tension and discomfort often associated with stress.
By taking maypop capsules regularly, individuals can experience a sense of calm and tranquility, making it easier to manage daily stressors and promote overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata capsules that help with stress.
- Harmane: Harmane is an indole alkaloid that helps with stress by acting as an anxiolytic agent, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
- Isovitexin: Isovitexin is a flavonoid that helps with stress by exhibiting sedative and anxiolytic properties, which can lead to reduced stress and improved sleep quality.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly vitexin, help with stress by exerting a sedative effect and reducing anxiety, which can contribute to improved mood and reduced stress levels.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make capsules for stress.
- Leaves: Used for their sedative and anti-anxiety properties, which help to calm the mind and body.
- Fruits: Utilized for their high content of passifloric acid, a compound believed to have a sedative effect and aid in stress relief.
- Roots: Employed for their ability to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality due to their bioactive compounds.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for stress.
- Harvest 30-50 grams of dried flowers and leaves of passiflora incarnata from a clean area.
- Grind the dried material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of the powder with 2 tablespoons of gelatin and 1 tablespoon of water.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler for 10-15 minutes to dissolve the gelatin completely.
- Fill empty capsules with the gelatin mixture and seal them immediately to preserve freshness.
5. Piper methysticum
Kava capsules helps with stress because they contain the root of the kava plant, which has been traditionally used to calm the mind and body.
The active compounds in kava, such as kavain and dihydrokavain, interact with neurotransmitters in the brain to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
As a result, herbal kava capsules can help alleviate symptoms of stress, including feelings of worry, fatigue, and insomnia, allowing individuals to better manage their daily lives and improve overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum capsules that help with stress.
- Kavain: A phenolic compound that helps reduce stress by inhibiting the activity of neurotransmitters that promote anxiety and stress, such as GABA and serotonin, thereby promoting relaxation.
- Dihydrokavain: A phenolic compound that helps reduce stress by acting as a GABA receptor agonist, which enhances the calming effects of GABA and promotes relaxation and reduced anxiety.
- Yonggin: A sesquiterpene lactone that helps reduce stress by exhibiting anxiolytic and sedative properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make capsules for stress.
- Rhyzomes: They contain the highest concentration of kavalactones, which are the active compounds responsible for the plant's stress-relieving and anxiolytic effects.
- Leaves: Leaves of Piper methysticum also contain kavalactones, although in lower concentrations than rhyzomes, they are often used as an alternative or in combination with rhyzomes.
- Roots: While roots of Piper methysticum may contain some kavalactones, they are not as commonly used as rhyzomes or leaves due to their lower concentration of active compounds.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kava for stress.
- Harvest 100 grams of dried piper methysticum roots and separate the roots into smaller pieces.
- Grind 50 grams of the dried piper methysticum root pieces into a fine powder using a grinder.
- Combine the powder with 5 grams of gelatin and mix until well combined in a bowl.
- Fill 100 empty gelatin capsules with the mixture and seal them using a capsule sealer machine.
- Store the herbal capsules in an airtight container in a cool dry place for up to 2 years.
6. Hypericum perforatum
St John's Wort capsules helps with stress because it contains hyperforin, a natural compound that has been shown to have anxiolytic properties.
This herb has been traditionally used for centuries in Europe to treat mild depression and anxiety-related disorders. The capsules help regulate the body's response to stress by enhancing serotonin levels in the brain, which can lead to improved mood stability and reduced feelings of worry and anxiety.
As a result, many people find that taking St John's Wort capsules helps them cope with stressful situations and promotes overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum capsules that help with stress.
- Hyperforin: Hyperforin acts as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, which helps to increase the levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, thereby reducing stress and anxiety.
- Hypotensive flavonoids: These flavonoids have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress by promoting relaxation and improving mood.
- Naphthodianthrone: Hyperchrome and other naphthodianthrones have a direct impact on the brain's GABA receptors, which helps to regulate the body's stress response and promote feelings of calmness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make capsules for stress.
- Leaves: Rich in hyperforin and hypericin, which are active compounds responsible for the plant's antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects.
- Stems: Contain hyperforin and hypericin, allowing them to contribute to the plant's stress-relieving properties.
- Flowers: Also contain hyperforin and hypericin, making them a valuable part of the plant for stress relief and mood enhancement.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for stress.
- Harvest 50g of dried hypericum perforatum flowers from a pesticide-free area with a ratio of 1 part flowers to 2 parts leaf.
- Grind the dried hypericum perforatum flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 1 minute.
- Mix 10g of the powdered hypericum perforatum flowers with 10g of gelatin in a small bowl.
- Add 10ml of glycerin and 20ml of distilled water to the mixture stirring constantly for 5 minutes.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the mixture using a capsule filler and seal immediately.
7. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile capsules helps with stress because of its unique ability to soothe the nervous system, calming the mind and body.
The capsules contain apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties help alleviate symptoms of irritability and restlessness, allowing individuals to feel more grounded and centered.
As a natural stress-reliever, chamomile capsules can be taken daily to promote a sense of calm and tranquility, making it an effective tool for managing everyday stress.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla capsules that help with stress.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid that helps with stress by acting as a natural sedative and anxiolytic, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid that helps with stress by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, which can help reduce stress-induced inflammation.
- Chamazulene: A sesquiterpene that helps with stress by having a sedative and anti-anxiety effect, as well as by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing, which can contribute to overall stress relief.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make capsules for stress.
- Flowers: They are rich in apigenin and luteolin, which are known for their calming and anti-anxiety effects.
- Seeds: They contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate stress.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for stress.
- Harvest 20-30 dried matricaria chamomilla flowers from a reputable source or your own garden.
- Crush 10 grams of the dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 1 gram of the powder with 4 grams of empty gelatin capsules.
- Fill each capsule with the mixture and seal them immediately to maintain potency.
- Store the filled capsules in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
8. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm capsules helps with stress because of its calming effects on the mind and body.
The herb contains rosmarinic acid, which has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. By soothing the nervous system, lemon balm capsules can help alleviate feelings of tension and overwhelm, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Additionally, its gentle sedative properties can quiet a racing mind, allowing individuals to feel more centered and composed in the midst of chaos.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis capsules that help with stress.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps reduce stress by acting as an antioxidant, which helps protect the body from oxidative stress and promotes relaxation.
- Linalool: A terpene that helps alleviate stress by acting as a GABA receptor agonist, which can help regulate sleep, reduce anxiety, and promote feelings of calmness.
- Limonene: A terpene that helps reduce stress by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety through its effects on the GABA receptors and by reducing cortisol levels in the body.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make capsules for stress.
- Leaves: Melissa officinalis leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of rosmarinic acid, which is responsible for their calming effects.
- Flowers: Melissa officinalis flowers are also used due to their high content of essential oils, which contribute to their stress-reducing properties.
- Stems: Melissa officinalis stems are occasionally used as they contain some of the plant's volatile compounds, including linalool, which may help alleviate stress.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for stress.
- Dry the melissa officinalis leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours to preserve their properties.
- Grind 1 ounce of dried melissa officinalis leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix the powder with 2 tablespoons of gelatin and 2 tablespoons of glycerin to form a uniform blend.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the herbal mixture using a capsule filling machine or spoon.
- Store the filled capsules in a cool dark place for up to 2 years to maintain potency.
9. Scutellaria lateriflora
Skullcap capsules helps with stress because they contain scutellaria, a natural herb that has been used for centuries to calm the mind and body.
The capsules work by interacting with the brain's neurotransmitters, such as GABA, serotonin, and dopamine, to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. As a result, individuals who take skullcap capsules may experience a sense of calmness and tranquility, making it easier to manage daily stressors and fall asleep at night.
Regular use can also help alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall mental well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Scutellaria lateriflora capsules that help with stress.
- Baicalein: A flavonoid that helps with stress by acting as a GABA receptor agonist, which promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety.
- Baicalin: A flavonoid glycoside that helps with stress by inhibiting inflammatory pathways and reducing oxidative stress, leading to a sense of calmness.
- Wogonin: A flavone that helps with stress by acting as a neuroprotective agent, reducing excitatory neurotransmitter release, and promoting relaxation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of skullcap used to make capsules for stress.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to the plant's stress-relieving properties.
- Roots: The roots of Scutellaria lateriflora are used for their adaptogenic and anti-anxiety effects, which help alleviate stress and promote relaxation.
- Stems: The stems of the plant are used to extract flavonoids and other compounds that aid in reducing stress and promoting overall well-being.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic skullcap for stress.
- Collect 20 grams of dried scutellaria lateriflora flowers and store them in an airtight container.
- Grind the dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
- Mix 2 grams of the powder with 8 grams of gelatin in a small bowl.
- Allow the mixture to dry in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Fill gelatin capsules with the dried mixture and store them in a cool dry place.
10. Humulus lupulus
Hops capsules helps with stress because they contain flavonoids and essential oils that interact with neurotransmitters in the brain to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
The sedative properties of hops also help regulate sleep patterns, which are often disrupted by chronic stress. Additionally, hops have a natural calming effect on the nervous system, allowing individuals to feel more centered and composed in the face of adversity.
By incorporating hops capsules into their daily routine, people can experience a sense of calm and tranquility that helps them better cope with stressful situations.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Humulus lupulus capsules that help with stress.
- Iso-alpha-acids: These compounds help reduce stress and anxiety by inhibiting the breakdown of neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA, promoting relaxation and calmness.
- Xanthohumol: This prenylated flavonoid has been shown to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects by acting on the brain's GABA receptors, which helps regulate stress response.
- Alpha-acid acids: These sesquiterpenes have been found to possess sedative and anxiolytic properties, which help alleviate stress and promote relaxation by modulating the body's response to stress stimuli.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hops used to make capsules for stress.
- Flowers: They are used to make stress relief capsules because they contain a high concentration of essential oils, particularly humulone and lupulone, which have anti-anxiety and sedative effects.
- Leaves: They are used to make stress relief capsules because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have been shown to have anxiolytic and adaptogenic properties.
- Rhyzomes: They are used to make stress relief capsules because they contain a compound called humulone, which has been traditionally used to calm the nervous system and reduce stress.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hops for stress.
- Harvest humulus lupulus flowers when they are fully open and have a fragrant aroma at 9am to 11am for optimal potency.
- Dry the humulus lupulus flowers in a single layer at 100 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours to remove moisture.
- Grind the dried humulus lupulus flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 5 minutes.
- Mix the powdered humulus lupulus with a binding agent like gelatin and fill empty capsules with the mixture at 1:1 ratio.
- Store the herbal humulus lupulus capsules in an airtight container in a cool dark place for up to 12 months.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for stress?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with stress is a blend of Ashwagandha, Ginkgo Biloba, and Bacopa Monnieri.
Ashwagandha helps reduce cortisol levels and promotes relaxation, while Ginkgo Biloba enhances blood flow to the brain, improving focus and reducing anxiety. Bacopa Monnieri, also known as Brahmi, enhances memory and cognitive function, promoting mental clarity and calmness.
Together, these herbs work synergistically to alleviate stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being, making them a popular choice for individuals looking to manage stress naturally.
What ailments similar to stress are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to stress/capsules.html">stress/capsules.html">stress that are treated with herbal capsules are anxiety, insomnia, and fatigue.
Herbal capsules such as passionflower, valerian root, and ashwagandha are often used to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and insomnia by promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality.
St. John's Wort is another herb commonly used to treat mild depression and fatigue, helping to regulate mood and energy levels naturally.