If you’ve ever found yourself overwhelmed and on edge, you’re not alone. Stress is something we all face, and over the years, I’ve discovered the calming power of herbs to help bring balance back into my life. I can’t promise a magic cure, but I’ll walk you through 10 of my favorite herbs for stress relief that I’ve personally tried and keep coming back to.
Herbs for stress relief
These herbs are gentle yet powerful, and they might just be the extra support you’re looking for!
1. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is my go-to adaptogen because it helps my body handle stress. This herb is fantastic for both mental and physical fatigue. When I was first exploring natural ways to manage stress (especially while working a 9-5 finance job), ashwagandha quickly became a staple. It helps me feel calm but alert, and I’ve noticed I don’t feel as frazzled during hectic days. It’s clean energy!
- How to Use: I take it in capsule form and also as a powder (pictured below) that can be mixed into smoothies.
- Tip: Start small—ashwagandha can be strong, and a little goes a long way. It also doesn’t taste incredible on its own. Heads up.
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2. Chamomile
Chamomile has always been my top pick for relaxing at the end of a long day. Known for its mild, calming effects, it’s perfect for when you want to wind down before bed. A warm chamomile tea just before bedtime helps me let go of the day and signals my body to relax.
- How to Use: Brew chamomile tea about an hour before you plan to sleep.
- Tip: Try a chamomile tea with added honey for an even more soothing effect.
3. Lavender
Lavender is not just for candles and bath salts! Its essential oil is famous for promoting relaxation and calming the mind. When I feel tense, I’ll add a drop or two of lavender oil to my diffuser, or even dab it on my wrists. The scent alone has a way of helping me reset.
- How to Use: Use lavender essential oil in a diffuser, or apply diluted oil to pulse points.
- Tip: Keep a small bottle in your bag. You never know when you might need a quick de-stress boost.
4. Rhodiola
Rhodiola is another adaptogen, and it’s known for boosting energy while fighting stress. When I’m dealing with stress that makes me feel exhausted or foggy, rhodiola provides a clear-headed, focused energy without the jitters.
- How to Use: I usually take rhodiola as a capsule or tincture in the morning.
- Tip: Avoid taking it too late in the day, as it can be stimulating.
5. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is one of my favorites for calming the mind without feeling sleepy. It’s gentle and has a subtle, uplifting effect. I often brew lemon balm tea in the afternoon when I need to stay calm but don’t want to lose energy.
- How to Use: It’s excellent as a tea, and it’s also available in capsules or tinctures.
- Tip: Lemon balm pairs well with other herbs, so feel free to mix it with chamomile or passionflower.
6. Passionflower
If you’re dealing with anxiety or racing thoughts, passionflower is a gentle herb worth trying. It’s great for calming the mind and body, making it easier to rest or even meditate. I like to use it when I feel particularly anxious, as it helps slow down my thoughts.
- How to Use: Passionflower is best as a tea or tincture, taken about an hour before bed.
- Tip: It’s great on its own or combined with chamomile for an extra calming tea.
7. Valerian Root
Valerian root is a powerful herb for sleep, but be warned—it has a distinct smell that takes some getting used to! When I’ve had a rough day and know sleep might be hard to come by, valerian root helps me relax deeply enough to drift off.
- How to Use: Take valerian as a tea or in capsule form about 30 minutes before bed.
- Tip: I mix valerian tea with chamomile or lemon balm to soften its taste and smell.
8. Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Holy basil, or tulsi, is another adaptogen that’s known for its calming properties. This herb has a gentle, grounding effect and helps me feel more centered. When I’m feeling overwhelmed, a cup of tulsi tea can work wonders.
- How to Use: Tulsi tea is my favorite way to use holy basil, but capsules are also available.
- Tip: Look for organic tulsi tea—it’s often fresher and more potent.
9. Skullcap
Skullcap is a lesser-known herb for stress relief, but it’s highly effective for calming the nervous system. I find it particularly helpful when I’m feeling edgy or irritable. It doesn’t make me sleepy, but it helps me unwind after a tense day.
- How to Use: Skullcap works well as a tincture or in tea form.
- Tip: Try it in the late afternoon to transition smoothly from work to relaxation.
10. Kava Kava
Kava kava is a strong herb for stress relief, and it’s especially good for social anxiety or intense nervousness. If you’re trying kava for the first time, know that it has a unique taste, but the relaxing effect it provides is well worth it!
- How to Use: Kava is often taken as a tea or tincture. Start with a small dose to gauge your reaction.
- Tip: Some people feel mild numbness on the tongue after taking kava, which is normal. Just start with a small dose until you get used to it.
How to Choose the Right Herbs for Stress Relief
Finding the right herb for stress relief is a personal journey. I recommend starting with a single herb and seeing how it feels in your routine. Remember, herbal remedies work best when they’re a regular part of your lifestyle, rather than a quick fix.
Overtime, you can explore different tea shops and enjoy premade herbal blends that help aid stress reduction, sleep, skin issues, and more.
Final Thoughts on the best herbs for stress relief
Herbs can be a gentle yet powerful tool for managing stress, and I hope this guide gives you a great starting point.
Whether you’re drawn to the calming effects of chamomile or need the focused energy that rhodiola offers, there’s an herb out there for you.
I hope you enjoy this article and get brewing! 🙂
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