How can I reduce/detox cortisol (the stress hormone)? - #25091

Avoid spicy, oily and processed food. Regular exercise and meditation. Increase intake of raw vegetables and fruits. Ashokarishta 15ml twice after meal with lukewarm water

As per your LAKSHANAS( Symptoms) Vata-pita of your bodily dosas are aggravated . So inorder to detox /control cortisol we have to consider these also.

Internally 1.Drakshadi kwatham tab 2-0-2 before food 2.Gorochanadi gulika 1-0-1after food 3.Manasamitra tab 1 at bedtime 4.Aswaganda churnam 1tsp with milk after dinner

*Practice Pranayama/meditation regularly which helps to control your stress hormones

To naturally decrease cortisol levels, the key lies in addressing stress, as cortisol is a response to stress in the body. Start by looking at your daily routine and see where you can incorporate activities that help soothe your mind and body. Practices like yoga and pranayama (breathing exercises), especially, can be invaluable in calming the nervous system. Aim to include these into your daily schedule; even 15-20 minutes can make a difference.

From an ayurvedic perspective, your symptoms suggest Vata imbalance, which can often be related to excess stress. To aid the rebalancing of Vata, focus on grounding foods that nurture and support the digestive fire, agni. Include warm, cooked meals like stews and khichdi, emphasized with spices such as cumin, ginger, and turmeric that support digestion and reduce inflammation. Avoid cold, raw, and dry foods that might aggravate Vata.

Herbs like Ashwagandha and Brahmi can be particularly effective as adaptogens that help the body handle stress. They should be taken with warm milk or water, preferably in the morning or evening. Consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for specific dosages, as it may vary based on personal constitution (prakriti).

Sleep’s irregularity, like waking up at 3 am, often aligns with a correlating imbalance in body’s doshas. Try to create a calming evening routine, avoid stimulating activities or screens before bed to improve sleep quality and consistency. Keep a regular sleep schedule and consider drinking warm milk with a pinch of nutmeg before bedtime for its calming effects.

Increasingly, implement self-massage practices, known as Abhyanga in Ayurveda. Use warm sesame oil in the morning, allowing it to soak for around 10-15 minutes before taking a warm shower. This practice not only soothes the nervous system but also nourishes the tissues (dhatus) and enhances relaxation.

Manage stress on a psychological level as well through meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature. These assist in creating a more balanced response to stressors. If symptoms persist, consider seeking advice from a practitioner well-versed in Ayurveda, who can offer a tailored approach in line with your prakriti and present state of health.