Many people find herbs helpful for soothing feelings of stress and anxiety. These herbs are often called nervines because they act upon the nervous system to produce a mildly relaxing effect. The leaves, flowers, and roots of these herbs can be used to make teas or herbal supplements that can help ease anxiety and promote relaxation. The herbs may also be used in aromatherapy to add a pleasant fragrance that can ease tension and stress.

Stress and relaxing herbs are a natural part of life, but most of us could use a little help to relax from time to time. In addition to a hectic schedule, our environment and relationships can create a stew of stressful stimuli. Adding to the stew, most adults have unprocessed trauma from childhood that can activate our stress response. When we combine this with various social identities that intersect to reinforce and magnify stress (for example, gender, race, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation), our ability to relax can be challenged.

Nature’s Tranquilizers: Exploring the World of Relaxing Herbs

The most well-known Western herb for easing anxiety is chamomile, which is a gentle Nervous System Sedative and can help with sleep. Try a cup of tea or a tincture before bed, or sprinkle the dried flowers into your bath for a soothing soak. Lavender is also a popular nervous system calmer, and studies show that its aroma can reduce agitation in nursing home patients.

Lemon balm is another nervine herb with a pleasing flavor and scent, as well as the ability to lower cortisol levels in the bloodstream. It also has antiviral properties and can help relieve gastrointestinal discomfort. Add lemon balm leaves or essential oil to your favorite herbal tea or a soothing tincture, and you can reap the stress-relieving benefits of this herb that is easy to grow in the garden.