We love integrating Western herbs into our practice. They’re easy to use, fun to learn about, widely accessible, and can be sourced locally and organically. And, there are so many herbs that can help us keep calm and relaxed. The following information is from National Geographic’s special March 2020 edition, Healing Remedies: A Holistic Approach to Health and Wellness, and focuses on herbal stress relief.
(As always, the information provided is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.)
Caring for the Nervous System
In Western herbalism, caring for the nervous system relies on NERVINE and ADAPTOGEN herbs to help us better cope with stress, relieve anxiety, lift our mood, improve our sleep, and ease our pain.
Nervines are simply herbs that have some effect upon the nervous system. There are three categories of nervines:
nervine stimulants enliven and awaken the nervous system. Peppermint, rosemary, and ginger achieve this action without overstimulating the nervous system.
nervine relaxants have a calming effect upon the nerves, with their effect ranging from mild (chamomile, lemon balm) to powerfully sedative (California poppy, hops). Valerian offers a nice middle ground.
german chamomile: one of the best herbs for those who hold stress in their digestive tracts and skin. Anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic.
lemon balm: for those who become irritable and cranky if they don’t have enough downtime. For overstimulated extroverts with difficulty focusing.
valerian: found in many sleep formulas because it promotes restful sleep. Best for those who are tense and tired. Relaxes tension in the muscles.
California poppy: helpful for those whoa re stressed-out, depressed, and cannot sleep due to pain. Mild pain-relieving properties and eases anxiety
hops: for those who really need to sleep but lay awake at night worried about all kinds of things.
nervine tonics nourish and support the nervous system, and are a good choice for those feeling emotionally exhausted or overwhelmed. Tonic herbs include milky oats, skullcap, and St. Johns Wort.
milky oats: a classic nervine tonic, helpful for those who are mentally and spiritually tired.
skullcap: best for those who are easily upset and overwhelmed. Supports those who do not handle stress well.
St. Johns Wort: strengthens and nourishes those who are mildly depressed. Its best for those not taking prescription drugs as it can interact with many.
Adaptogens are helpful for those under a great deal of stress, and include ginseng, ashwagandha, and rhodiola. Adaptogen herbs can be taken for at least 2-3 months, and should be part of a holistic approach to managing stress.
Ginseng is considered the classic adaptogen, and often used in Chinese Medicine as a qi tonic to improve energy and vitality.
Ashwaghanda is a rejuvenating tonic, used in Ayurveda, the traditional medical system of India. This herb is recommended for the “wired and tired”.
Rhodiola has been used in traditional medicine systems for over 3,000 years. This herb can help those with fatigue, mental fog, and difficulty concentrating.
You can make teas or tinctures from these herbs based on which one resonates with you. For young children, stick with chamomile, lemon balm, milky oats, and skullcap.
HERBAL STRESS RELIEF
This basic herbal formula is great for taking the edge off. And it's simple to make at home- give it a try!
10 grams lemon balm herb
10 grams chamomile flowers
10 grams skullcap herb
150 milliliters brandy or vodka OR 170 milliliters vegetable glycerine and 70 milliliters water (use glycerine option for kids)
Grind herbs into a coarse powder and put in a glass jar. Add vodka OR vegetable glycerine and water. Stir well. If you need to add more liquid, put in an additional 15 milliliters glycerine and 5 milliliters water. Cover and let sit for 2 weeks, shaking daily. Strain and pour liquid into a dark bottle, label, and store in a cabinet. Compost herbs.
how to use
Herbal Stres Relief Tincture (made with brandy or vodka):
Adults: take 1 teaspoon of the tincture 2 to 3 times a day, as needed to ease tension or anxiety.
Herbal Stress Relief Glycerite (made with vegetable glycerine):
40 to 60 pounds: 1/2 teaspoon 2 to 3 times a day, as needed
60 to 90 pounds: 1 teaspoon 2 to 3 times a day, as needed
90 to 120 pounds: 1 1/2 teaspoons 2-3 times a day, as needed
Over 120 pounds: 2 teaspoons 2 to 3 times a day, as needed
TAKE A DEEP BREATH AND ENJOY!
Resources:
“Healing Remedies” by Tieraona Low Dog M.D. National Geographic, March 2020.
