Herbal Help with Exam Stress

People respond to the stress of exams in different ways, some people relish the thought of doing the test, whilst others experience full blown panic attacks leading up to the event. 

In between these extremes, most people feel a little jittery, find it hard to concentrate on their studies, and maybe suffer from a lack of sleep. 

Herbal medicine can help to support your body and mind through exam periods. Napiers Study Blend can be used in an oil burner, or simply sniffed from the bottle to aid you. This stimulating blend contains the essential oils of Mint, Basil and Rosemary – these herbs help the mind to focus, whilst also exerting a gentle calming effect on the nervous system. 

Ginkgo Biloba, whose common name is ‘The Memory Tree’, is a key herb for exams. Ginkgo is traditionally used for its supporting effect on the adrenal glands, (which are involved in the stress response), whilst also stimulating blood flow to the brain, optimising cognitive function and thereby aiding concentration and memory – perfect. 

Another key exam herb is Ashwaganda (Withania), another adrenal tonic, providing energy and support to the nervous system, whilst also having a stimulating effect on the brain. Ashwaganda and Ginkgo make a very good partnership, the overall effect being increased concentration and memory, coupled with a gentle calming effect on the mind and body. 

Duncan Napier himself in 1860 originally formulated one of the most popular stress remedies recommended today in our Napiers Clinics. Scullcap, Oat and Passionflower Compound contains over 20 different herbs, including Scullcap, Oats, Passionflower, Jamaican dogwood, Limeflowers and Valerian. 

TRY TO GET GOOD NIGHTS SLEEP

Don’t OD on coffee or caffeine based drinks during the day. Leave at least a half hour gap between putting your revision down and going to bed to let your mind calm. Sleep is important for concentration, memory formation and helps the repair of damage to your body’s cells during the day. Napiers Sweet Dreams is a traditional herbal remedy to help you sleep. 

DON’T GET RUN DOWN, BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM 

Many students fall prey to coughs and colds and it can be really helpful to boost your immune system over this period. Napiers Elixir of Echinacea is a licensed herbal remedy, formulated to help the body fight back against infection. 

TAKE REGULAR EXERCISE 

Whilst studying for exams it is very important to take regular breaks and to take regular exercise. A brisk half hour walk will really help restore your energy levels and help de-stress and freshen your mind. 

Take time out to let your body and mind relax!

by Dee Atkinson MNIMH