Relieving stress with herbs

RELIEVING STRESS WITH HERBS

Herbs can play an important role in stress management, especially when used in conjunction with mind-body techniques. (For specific information on using herbs, see Chapter 2, "East Meets West," page 21.)

HERBS FOR DAILY MILD STRESS

If you know that you're headed for a prolonged period of low-grade stress, prepare your self by using these relaxing herbs to soothe your frazzled nerves. Known as nervine relaxants, these herbs can be used regularly as gentle soothing remedies. They include:

            Balm (Melissa officinalis)
            Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
            Kava kava (Piper methysticum)
            Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
            Linden (Tilia spp.)
            Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
            Oats (Avena sativa)
            Skullcap (Scutellaria spp.)
            Vervain (Verbena officinalis)
            Wood betony (Stachys betonica)

       They can be used as teas, cold drinks, or infused in massage oil. They also make a relaxing footbath or an aromatic full bath. For information on making an herbal preparation, see Chapter 2, "East Meets West, " page 21. If you use a commercial preparation, follow the package diections.

HERBS FOR LONG-STANDING STRESS

These herbs can be used for chronic stress:

Ginseng (Panax spp.)
Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)

HERBS FOR SHORT-TERM SEVERE STRESS

When you feel your life is out of control and you are under severe pressure, look for herbal relief. These herbs can help take the edge off the trauma, but they wont eliminate it altogether. Add the following to the list of herbs above:

            Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata)
            Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
            Wild Lettuce (Lactuca virosa)

HERBS FOR DEPRESSION

When the stress of daliy life has turned to depression, Saint-John's-wort (Hypericum perforatum) can help lift your spirits.

The Doctors' Antistress Tonic

            Skullcap (Scutellaria laterifolia)            2 parts
            Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)            2 parts
            Oats (Avena sativa)                            1 part

Mix the herbs using the proportions listed above. Prepare a tincture, take 1 teaspoon of it as needed. (For more information on using herbs, see pages 21, 315.)

excerpt from The Physicians' Guide - Natural Health for African Americans