By Frederick Cheng (R.Ph) and Christine Cheng (R.Ph)
Undoubtedly, many of us are feeling a mixture of unpleasant emotions right now: frustration, fatigue, moodiness, anxiety, depression, grief, and stress. Non-drug measures implemented as soon as possible is always commendable. Try to get outside for a stroll or some exercise every day. Talk to family and friends often. Keep doing what you normally enjoy doing, be it playing with your kids, drawing, knitting, playing the piano, singing, woodworking, gardening, working on your car, etc. And definitely remember to eat well: focus on adequate lean protein, abundant vegetables, low fat and especially a low-carbohydrate diet; numerous studies show the benefits of an anti-infammatory low-carb diet on the mind. Fruits are useful, too, but only in moderation. Don’t just think about these things; actually do it!
There is such a thing as a healthy level of stress and anxiety. If you are needing more than just non-drug measures, there are several safe natural supplements that you could integrate into your regimen which do not cause dependency or have other toxic effects. Remember to consult your physician and integrative pharmacist prior to commencing trial of any natural supplement.
PascoFlair(TM) is indicated for stress, restlessless, and even sleep. It is unique in that it will do all that without causing drowsiness. The tablets of passion flower extract simply put you in a relaxed state, alleviating racing thoughts, and can be used both chronically as a preventative, and acutely for quick symptomatic control.
Neurapas Balance(TM) is a much lower extract of passion flower, but has St. John’s wort, and valerian root added to make it an effective tool for controlling anxiety and mild depression. It works by balancing the serotonin and GABA systems in your brain to restore a more pleasant mood without any of the side-effects of prescription anti-depressants.
If you respond well to homeopathics, Ignatia amara is definitely one to try. Even a single dose, in pellet or liquid form, could put you at ease and you may not need another dose for a few days, although it is safe to use on a daily basis.
Endo Bliss (TM) is a smart blend of L-theanine, saffron, and their PhytoCann Complex, which contains echinacea purpurea, white peony root, magnolia bark, ginger root, Sichuan pepper and clove flower bud. The capsules promote the production and retention of your own cannabinoids (“endocannabinoids”), as well as stimulate the receptors, thereby offering a gentle way to boost and balance your mood. Come see Christine or Fred to check out the other “Endo” products from Emerald Health Naturals available at Cloverdale Pharmasave and Pharmasave Steveston Village.
Fred and Christine Cheng are a passionate, charismatic sister-brother pharmacist team at their unique, family-operated Pharmasave stores in Cloverdale and Steveston, B.C. They specialize in natural remedies and compounding for both human and veterinarian use. Everything mentioned in their article is available InStore. Articles, Q&A, blog posts and all materials submitted for publishing is the intellectual property of Cloverdale Pharmacy Ltd – reproduction in part or whole, in print or online, without written consent and permission is prohibited.
