5 Herbs to Ease Anxiety

In no other system of the body is the connection between physical and psychological aspects as strong as it is in the nervous system. Any mental, emotional or spiritual upset can have a physical affect too - ever notice how some people get diarrhea when they’re anxious? Or how your appetite can drastically change when you’re feeling anxious or stressed?A wholistic approach to herbal healing acknowledges the interconnectedness of both the physical and psychological aspects of our being. Herbs can strengthen and feed our nervous system by acting as tonics, relaxants or stimulants. Anxiety is so prevalent in today’s society and I find herbal medicine to be incredibly valuable in healing and soothing a stressed and tired nervous system.Here are just a few of my faves: 

Lemon Balm

Probably one of my favourite and most-used herbs, Lemon balm can relieve spasms in the digestive tract as well as ease anxiety and mild depression. Because it is so soothing on the gut as well as the nervous system, it is often used when there is anxiety, insomnia or tension in combination with digestive issues such as bloating and gas. Lemon balm has a tonic effect on the heart and circulatory system as well.How to take it: it combines beautifully with Chamomile in a nighttime tea to help ease anxiety, insomnia and restlessness. 

Chamomile

Another beautiful herb for both the digestive and nervous systems, Chamomile can relax digestive spasms, griping and indigestion as well as anxiety and insomnia.How to take it: drink several cups of the sweet herbal tea during the day to help induce a feeling of relaxation. For digestive problems drink after meals. 

Skullcap

I love this herb – it is an incredible nervine tonic, sedative and anti-spasmodic. It relaxes the entire nervous system and can ease nervous tension as well as revitalise the central nervous system. It has even been used in cases of seizures and hysteria as well as epilepsy. It also works wonderfully in cases of PMS, exhaustion and depression.How to take it: pour a cup of boiling water over 1-2 tsp. of the dried herb and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes. Drink three times a day. 

Vervain

This is another beautiful herb that acts to tone and soothe the nervous system. It strengthens a weak nervous system whilst also relaxing any stress or tension. It can ease depression and melancholy and is especially useful for anyone feeling depressed or downhearted after coming out of a long illness. It combines well with Skullcap and Oats.How to take it: pour a cup of boiling water over 1-3 tsp. of the dried herb, infuse for 10-15 minutes and drink three times a day. 

Oats

Oats is by far one of the best herbs for feeding, soothing, toning and nourishing a stressed nervous system. It can be used in cases of debility, exhaustion and fatigue as well as depression. The high levels of silicic acid also make it great for skin issues, especially if you apply it topically. For depression it combines well with Skullcap.How to take it: for nerve pain or skin conditions, boil 500g oats in 2 litres of water for half an hour, strain and add the liquid to a bath. Soak some oats overnight in water and milk with some almonds, chia seeds and sunflower seeds and in the morning stir through some blueberries and a little natural or coconut yoghurt – delicious Bircher muesli!