5 Herbs for Relaxation
In working with clients one thing I’ve noticed is that folks have a hard time resting and relaxing, even in their free time. I saw a big need for support in that area. It’s easy to google “relaxing herbs”, but it’s more helpful when you can think about your situation and match it with herbs are that indicated for the specifics of your life. Not all people and not all stress are the same! So, enjoy this breakdown of 5 herbs for relaxation and when they might be helpful.
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is indicated for those people with a tendency to experience more agitated, worried, or irritable states. They feel restless and uncomfortable. Perhaps wanting comforting attention, but not feeling comforted when they get it. It’s also indicated for stress that manifests in the digestive tract. This can look like stomachaches, heat, and tension in the gut.
Oat Straw (Avena sativa) is indicated for people who feel completely frazzled and depleted from long term stress. Someone who says, “I’m fried.” It is deeply nourishing, in part due to its high mineral content. Oat straw is best prepared as an overnight infusion. The combination of heat + time allows for more mineral extraction. Milky oat tops are the most nourishing part of the plant, they are best taken as a tincture or glycerite.
Wood Betony (Stachys officinalis) is indicated for those who feel all over the place. These people need support in slowing down and feeling present in their body. They feel they are rushing and don’t have a moment to breathe. Wood betony helps one to feel grounded and present. It combines well with a breathwork practice to support feeling present and ease anxiety.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is indicated for people who overheat and whose mood is deeply impacted when they are stressed. It gently lifts the mood while helping you feel present in the moment, and it’s cooling. Lemon balm also has antiviral activity making it a good choice for the person who catches every cold/virus that goes around.
Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) is indicated for those people who experience blood sugar ups and downs. Examples of this are feeling “hangry” and craving sugar or carbohydrates. Tulsi is good at helping to stabilize blood sugar levels allowing one to feel more stable and calm. It’s also wonderful at helping one feel present in the body and combines very well with wood betony for this.
Thinking about herbal indications helps us choose the right herb for the right situation. So for example: if I’m having trouble relaxing because stress gives me stomachaches and leaves me feeling really down – a blend of chamomile and lemon balm would be a lovely choice because it will address the specifics of my situation!