Six herbal medicines to help with stress
As Naturopaths, we harness the healing power of plant medicine and lifestyle adjustments to support the body through times of stress, emotional overwhelm, and exhaustion.
Stress can manifest in various ways, from feeling burdened by an endless ‘to-do’ list that’s always on our minds, to dealing with significant life stressors that can knock us off balance. In today’s fast-paced society, stress is unavoidable, and while we can’t eliminate it entirely, we can strengthen our resilience to it.
By building stress resilience, we prepare ourselves to face challenges more effectively. When we’re equipped to handle life’s difficulties, we can recover and "bounce back" with greater ease, instead of feeling weighed down or overwhelmed.
Chronic stress, if left unchecked, can contribute to a wide range of health conditions and is often at the root of many illnesses. Learning how to manage and cope with stress is essential for showing up in our daily lives with more calm, stability, and well-being.
When working with herbal medicine we take into consideration the individual person, presenting signs and symptoms, as well as the specific actions of the plant.
Let's explore six plant medicines that can support your mind and body to mitigate stress.
WITHANIA
Withania Somnifera
Part used: root
Withania has a beautiful way of supporting the body through times of stress without overstimulating the nervous system. It helps to regenerate serotonin receptors which is referred to as the ‘feel good’ hormone. Withania also has an affinity for the immune system which makes it the perfect match for someone who is mentally or physically stressed, fatigued and run down.
LAVENDER
Lavandula angustifolia
Part used: flowers
Lavender is widely known for its calming scent, however its healing powers go far beyond aromatherapy. Lavender is a gentle, strengthening tonic for the nervous system and is most commonly used for insomnia. It has been shown to reduce headaches and help to lower heart rate making it an excellent remedy for stress-induced physical symptoms.
LEMON BALM
Mellisa officinalis
Part used: leaves
Lemon balm has a strengthening effect on both the nervous system and cardiovascular system, making it an ideal herb for those dealing with anxiety, restlessness, excitability and heart palpitations. With its antiviral properties, lemon balm is also highly effective for individuals who experience flare-ups of viral infections, particularly when feeling fatigued and run down.
PASSIONFLOWER
Passiflora incarnata
Part used: aerial parts
Passionflower is a powerful yet gentle sedative herb that has been used to treat anxiety and insomnia. It works by increasing levels of a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation called GABA. This is a beautiful herb to help those who are dealing with restlessness, racing thoughts or difficulty falling asleep due to stress.
CHAMOMILE
Matricaria chamomilla
Part used: flowers
Chamomile is specific for supporting the gut-brain axis, which is the communication pathway between our brain and digestive system. It is perfect for soothing an upset stomach, calming down irritability and nervous tension and gently inducing sleep. Great as a tea before bed!
SHATAVARI
Asparagus racemosus
Part used: root
Shatavari is known as the ‘queen of herbs’ as it contains an array of medicinal properties. It is celebrated for its ability to support the female reproductive system and enhance overall vitality. It is also known for its adaptogenic properties, helping the body cope with stress and promoting emotional balance. It is a super grounding herb, making it the perfect ally during challenging times
By tuning into nature, we can find gentle, effective ways to soothe our minds and bodies. Book in a naturopathic consult to receive an individualised treatment approach.