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As the calendar turns to December, it brings us a lot of excitement, anticipation, parties, family gatherings, and more. Although it is a wonderful time of the year, all the going on’s can become stressful. Fortunately, there is help. There are two different types of herbs that I recommend:

 

NERVINES:
Nervines are herbs that specifically help support the nervous system such as skullcap, oatstraw, chamomile and valerian root. In general, these herbs are used to help relieve muscle tension, calm worried thoughts and anger, promote concentration and help support healthy nerve function with regular use. Other herbs such as lavender can be calming, and often used in aromatherapy for its mild calming action while uplifting the spirit. Lemon balm is like sunshine, helping with gloom and elevating the mood, and has even been shown to help with panic attacks. Catnip is gentle and calming, a good herb for children and the elderly [1]. Hawthorn has been known to help with heart palpitations, while St. John’s wort helps with mild depression and concentration [2].

 

ADAPTOGENS:
Adaptogens help us to manage stress. These herbs help restore overall balance and strengthen the function of the body as a whole without impacting the balance of an individual organ or bodily system. They are known to improve focus, support a healthy immune system, and the body seems to know just where they are needed! Adaptogenic herbs such as holy basil help to restore vitality and softens our reaction to stress. Eleuthero root (Siberian ginseng) can improve normal mental clarity and emotional stamina during stressful situations. This herb also helps with sleep and supports immune function. American ginseng boosts physical strength and stamina while supporting mental alertness and memory. It is good for exhaustion and vitality. Cordyceps mushrooms have long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. The beta-glucans in cordyceps and other medicinal mushrooms are a key factor in supporting a healthy immune system [1].

 

 

Swing by Herbs4You before you face the Christmas rush. We will greet you with a friendly smile and help you find the “rescue” herbs that are right for you! Whether it be one of our many therapeutic teas, tinctures, tonics, bulk herbs, salves, or supplements, we are here to help you find what is right for you! Maybe a Flower Essence is what you need to shift that negative energy!

 

We’re Here to Help YOU!
Sue Froschheuser

 

 

Sources:

[1] DiSanti, J (2018) Understanding Nervines & Adaptogens: Herbs for Stress & the Nervous System. Retrieved on 12/02/2019 from blog.mountainroseherbs.com

[2] Abascal, K., Yarnell, E. (2004). Nervine Herbs for Treating Anxiety. Alternative and Complimentary Therapies 10(6):309-315. Retrieved on 12/02/2019 from researchgate.net

 

About the Author

Sue Froschheuser M.H.

Sue Froschheuser M.H.

Master Herbalist
Sue received her certification as a Family Herbalist from the School of Natural Healing, and Master Herbalist certification from Trinity School of Natural Health. Sue is also continuing her Herbalism training in the areas of wound management, first-aid, and animal care.