Nervines for Difficult Times
Herbal allies for the chronically exhausted
My nervous system has been fried for the past year. I’ve been to the doctors, done the tests, and followed the protocols. But the one thing I have always needed and will continue to need is rest. I have always been resistant to rest in my life, pushing my body beyond it’s limit. Now that I am forced to slow down and honor my body’s own rhythm, I can’t help but feel the need to have the support of herbal allies in my life. I know I am not the only person who finds it difficult to rest and hope these herbal allies can be supportive during these times.
Catnip
Catnip is a well-known plant in the African American community, or at least that's how I feel about it. As many people are new to herbalism, I felt the pull towards exotic plants, and only now, later in life, have. I found the beauty in the familiar. Catnip can be a great ally for those who feel depleted in their life from stress and anxiety while still being uplifting. I have always found myself gravitating towards more uplifting nervines in my life for the dual action and being a good energetic match for my composition. This plant is cooling and drying, making it an ideal astringent herb for those who struggle with nervous digestive issues.
It can be helpful for releasing tension for those who notice they hold tension in their shoulders. I am someone with tight shoulder and find the support this plant to offer a helpful hand, like someone helping to carry the burden because of it’s antispasmodic properties. It offers gentle support safe enough to use as a light sedative on children. Despite, it’s slight uplifting qualities it can still be useful in adults dealing with insomnia and restlessness. This is something I always like to keep on hand in my house.
Milky Oats
Milky oats is my daily go-to and something I lean on and I take it on the daily because of my frazzled nervous system. I am someone who is prone to excitement and always anxious and never found such a beautiful and complimentary herb. This is the ideal support for someone who struggles with nervous exhaustion and tends to over work themselves because of how the plant replenishes our nervous system. This plant si truly a gift and gives us the opportunity to find balance in the chaos.
Keep in mind that herbs are not a simple solution to a complex problem. Milky oats invite us to take time for ourselves and rebuild our vital energy source through rest and community. Everyone has their one plant that they recommend to everyone and this one is mine. It is important not to mistake milky oat for oats straw because milky oat is the white sappy substance that can only be collected and tinctured fresh. While the oat straw can be benefitable for the nervous system, it is best used for it’s nutritive qualities as a tea.
Lemon Balm
Lemon is an uplifting herb that helps to balances mood. This is one of my favorite plants to pair with catnip during the day time. While it’s energetic actions are cooling. Lemon balm is a soothing herb that helps to relax the nervous system and offer a warm huge to the heart. This is a must have to have on hand if you are prone to emotional dysregulation like low moods or anxiety. I love this as a tincture with honey and it actually pairs really well in sparkling water. A lot of time with herbal remedies, you’ll find they ten to be bitter but this is a really soothing and sweet herb by itself.
This can be a beneficial plant to help with sleep because it helps to calm the mind and brings a wave of relaxation. This is good for those who find they sit up at night just thinking and replaying situations- aka me. This is also amazing as a tea with honey and is truly a warm hug to the soul.
*This is not medical advice, always do further research and work with an experienced herbalist. The list of indications and contraindications is limited and does not include the full scope.
Other Nervines:
California Poppy
Chamomile
Hops
Lavender
Linden
Passion Flower
Motherwort
Skullcap
Valerian