Approximately 40 million of American adults are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder each year. Although anxiety disorders are highly treatable, only 36.9 percent of anxiety sufferers receive treatment. There are many anxiety medications on the market. Unfortunately, a number of these medications cause a plethora of side effects. What if there was an all-natural, delicious drink that can help reduce stress and evoke a sense of calm? There is – it is called lavender lemonade.
Here’s Why Lemons & Lavender are the Perfect Anti-Anxiety Combo
Lemon juice is filled with healthy nutrients, including vitamin C and folate. Furthermore, the scent of lemons has been used for centuries in aromatherapy to elevate your mood and act as a stress reliever by stimulating the production of serotonin and dopamine.
Lavender is an herb that has been used for centuries to soothe the body and the mind. Lavender contains more than 150 active components, which work together to address a number of health issues, including anxiety. In fact, research has shown that lavender reduces anxiety, decreases heart rate, and calms the body. This gentle, yet powerful herb provides anti-inflammatory, detoxification, sedative, and antidepressant properties, making it a great choice for those suffering from anxiety.
Researchers have found that Silexan, a lavender oil based pill provides anxiety reducing effects on individuals suffering from anxiety. Within two weeks, the sufferers’ anxiety began to diminish.
Recipe for Lavender Lemonade Using Lavender Essential Oil
This lavender lemonade uses natural ingredients to create a tasty and healthy anxiety busting drink.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of raw honey (if possible, find locally sourced honey) or 3 to 4 cups of sugar
- 12 cups water (mineral water if possible)
- 1 drop of lavender essential oil
- The juice from six lemons
- Lavender springs and lemon slices for garnish.
Mix all ingredients in a large glass picture until well combined. Place the lavender lemonade in the refrigerator and chill. If you prefer sweeter lemonade, add a little more honey. If the lemonade is too sweet, add a little extra water or the juice of another lemon. To serve, place several ice cubes in a highball glass, then pour the lavender lemonade over the ice. Garnish with a sprig of lavender and a lemon slice.
Tip – If you prefer using dried lavender, bring one cup of water to a boil. Add the dried lavender to the boiling water. Place a lid on the pan and remove from heat. Allow the lavender to steep for up to two hours. Strain the water, removing the lavender pieces, and then continue with the above recipe.
Dehydration and Anxiety
Mild anxiety can be caused by dehydration. Furthermore, if you are dehydrated, your anxiety can worsen. Water is necessary for health. Unfortunately, many individuals are constantly mildly dehydrated. One way to counteract dehydration and its effects on anxiety is to increase your fluid intake and decrease your sodium intake.
Dehydration affects anxiety sufferers in several ways. First, when the body is not properly hydrated, it cannot function properly. When the body is not functioning properly, it will be unable to produce the correct amount of hormones. Furthermore, muscles begin to contract, and sleep may be affected. When your body is dehydrated, it increases your stress levels, resulting in increased anxiety.
Dehydration is preventable. All you need to do is sip on hydrating drinks throughout the day, including water, lavender lemonade, and healthy fruit juices. Even if you think you are properly hydrated, you should increase the amount of fluids that you are drinking if you are feeling anxious. Many times, increasing your hydration levels can help reduce or remove anxiety symptoms. Combining lavender and lemons increases the beneficial effects of water on anxiety symptoms.
Naturally Overcome Your Anxiety
If you are anxious, its recommended to seek help. The integrative professionals at Rose Wellness provide a variety of holistic approaches including acupuncture, homeopathy, and nutritional counseling to help with anxiety and stress relief.
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