Development and Evaluation of Herbal Inhaler Formulation for Anxiety and Stress Relief

Stress and anxiety are common psychological conditions that affect the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of individuals. In modern society, academic pressure, work demands, social expectations, and lifestyle changes have significantly increased the prevalence of these conditions. Stress is the body’s natural response to challenging or threatening situations, while anxiety is characterized by persistent feelings of worry, fear, or uneasiness that may occur even in the absence of an immediate threat. When experienced for prolonged periods, both stress and anxiety can negatively influence cognitive performance, sleep patterns, cardiovascular health, and overall quality of life. Physiologically, stress and anxiety involve activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, resulting in the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Continuous stimulation of this system can lead to psychological disorders, weakened immune response, and increased risk of chronic diseases. Management strategies include lifestyle modification, psychological therapy, pharmacological treatment, and the use of natural or herbal remedies aimed at promoting relaxation and emotional balance.