It has been hard to reduce stress during the Corona pandemic. We do know that increased stress can reduce your immune system These high levels of stress which may include loss of work, financial insecurity and your health can trigger high levels of cortisol. Cortisol is a steroid hormone. There are published studies that have shown that cortisol diminishes immune functions and can increase disease risk.
Cortisol is responsible for your flight or flight response that each of us has had at one point in our lives. When the stressful threat has passed cortisol levels are supposed to return to normal . With an ingoing pandemic, cortisol levels are most definitely ON. Sress can result in a decrease in lymphocytes. These immune cells are used to kill viruses, like Corona and other invaders of the body.
We do know from published that supplements rich in polyphenols can help promote a variety of biochemical activities especially reducing inflammation and decreasing cortisol One of the best and most studied herbs that is effective in reducing cortisol and inflammation is Green Tea. It is rich in a polyphenol EGCG.
There is also the lychee fruit which is rick in polyphenols. Lychee contain long chain polyphenols which are not easily absorbed. Life Extension has a new short chain lychee green tea blend which is excellent. (www.,lifeextension.com ) There are studies that this product with added Magnolia bark and Phellodedron bark can reduce cortisol. I also use many adaptogenic herbs in tea form and tablet form to help your stress. These tea blends and supplements are available at Botanical Bounty in NYC at 115 East 57th Street Suite 1510.