Herbal Nerve Support

Before people perceive their doctors about anti-depressants, I wish they would stop and think all the effective herbs for the nervous system. Certainly there is a suitable time for prescription medication, but there is so much in the botanical world that can perhaps be of assistance.

Many herbs fall under the set of nervine relaxants, which means they soothe and calm. Lemon balm is my beloved herb for relaxation and bringing joy to a sad heart. It’s great for anxiety, helps with absorption, and has a tonic effect on the heart and circulatory system. Skullcap is one of the most used nervines and is helpful for nervous tension, seizures and all miserable conditions. Lavender may help with stress-related headaches, anxious exhaustion, depression and sleep. It’s also used in lots of topical preparations and is particularly good for sunburn. Skullcap relaxes nervous tension while stimulating the central nervous system.

Other herbs are extremely useful sedatives, meaning they endorse a restful sleep. The most well-liked of all herbal sedatives is valerian due to its strength and effectiveness. Wild lettuce, a common weed, and works extremely well as a sleep aid; I advocate it for people who are responsive to valerian. “To take the edge off”, motherwort is a great soothing herb, and it’s one of the best herbal heart tonics offered.

As far as herbal anti-depressants go, Saint John’s wort has been used for centuries to dispel bad feelings. It’s been established to be as effective as pharmaceutical anti-depressants for mild to reasonable depression, but I wouldn’t recommend it for harsh depression. Saint John’s Wort has a narcotic and pain-reducing effect, and it helps with irritability and anxiety.

In addition to herbs, there are other significant factors to help keep us on the intense side. Native Americans talk about the health of the person being tied to the health of the spirit, family and society. This is really valid, for how can you keep your cool while the world around you crumbles? Pay attention to those just about you, even for the sake of your own health. I also find that usual exercise and creative activity help to build up a calm state of being.