For many kids and parents alike, going back to school brings on the excitement of new beginnings. Kids get to indulge in some shopping (new clothes!), while Mom and Dad look forward to a consistent routine again. However, it’s not always a positive anticipation. Some family members may experience feelings of anxiety, stress and even seasonal mood changes.
With the sun going to bed earlier and earlier and kids staying up later and later to finish school projects (“It’s due tomorrow, Mom!”), embracing the change of the seasons may require extra support. For the adults in the house, a solid natural herbal regimen can help you cope with school stress this time of year!
Please note: The supplements and herbs mentioned in this article are NOT intended for children.
Multivitamins may support mood
The foundation of any good mood is having a solid supply of nutrients in the bloodstream. When your diet is all over the place, you’ll find consistency in a multivitamin supplement. Also, low levels of vitamin D are often associated with seasonal blues. Keeping your nutrient levels constant may give some relief. When choosing a formula, look for a sufficient Daily Value of vitamin D; but also look for a fermented multivitamin, so it’s easily absorbed by your body.*
Our pick: New Chapter Perfect Calm Multivitamin
Holy Basil has its benefits
Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi, is an adaptogenic herb. Adaptogens help your body – no surprise – adapt to the stress of everyday life by supporting your overall health. Adaptogens can help balance cortisol levels, which are high during stressful times. When your body is under a constant state of stress, cortisol levels can remain spiked and lead to digestive issues, weight gain and mood imbalance. Thankfully, Holy Basil helps maintain stable cortisol levels in the body. And stable cortisol levels lead to improved mental clarity and memory.*
Holy Basil has immune-support benefits, as well, which is great for back-to-school season. You can count on the kids bringing home germs from new classmates. But with herbal support, you can get one step ahead of the seasonal shakedown.*
Our pick: New Chapter Holy Basil Force
Lemon Balm for GABA levels
Lemon balm is another herb that supports a healthy mood by boosting GABA levels in the brain. GABA plays an important role in behavior, cognition and the body’s response to stress by helping the mind control fear and anxiety when neurons become overly excited. Low levels of GABA are associated with depression, anxiety and sleep disorders.
Lemon balm works by inhibiting GABA transaminase, which is an enzyme that breaks down GABA levels in the brain and causes a deficiency. A lemon balm supplement may support alertness, mood and concentration – a winner for long study sessions with your student.*
Our pick: New Chapter Lemon Balm Force
Lion’s Mane ignites the brain
Does your brain feel like it’s not firing on all cylinders? Fire it back up with a mushroom that stems from Traditional Chinese Medicine called Lion’s Mane. The Lion’s Mane mushroom has been scientifically researched and is traditionally proven to be able to support brain function and mental clarity. Lion’s Mane has been shown to help support neurite outgrowth, helping your brain cells communicate with one another.*
Pairing Lion’s Mane with overall health-supportive mushrooms like Reishi, Poria and Chaga is a powerful combination that will support your brain as it juggles a busy schedule. Look for a mushroom product that is ID assured through DNA testing and has been allowed to grow through the whole life cycle in order to get the full potential from the mushroom.*
Our pick: New Chapter Lifeshield Mind Force
Turmeric takes you away
If your nights are spent tossing and turning and your days spent aching and tired, turmeric may be able to help. It’s the king of herbs. And when paired with other relaxing herbs, like chamomile, hops and valerian root, turmeric can support a deep, restful sleep. While you sleep, a turmeric supplement can help with a healthy inflammation response, so you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to greet the day.*
Our pick: New Chapter Turmeric Force Nighttime
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
