Everybody feels nervous at certain times, such as before giving a speech or taking a big test. Feeling nervous on a daily basis, however, is something different. It is important to talk to a therapist or understanding medical professional about constant unease. Using herbs for nervousness can help as well. The following four plants are perfect for relaxing the mind and body so those stressful, tense feelings can dissipate. Go ahead, make a soothing cup of tea and learn that there are ways to cope with nervousness.
Oat Straw
Drinking a cup of oat straw tea is a perfect way to ease tension while also nourishing the nervous system. Oats are an herbal tonic for the nervous system. They are packed with B vitamins and minerals to help nourish and protect nerves. Oat straw, which can be made into a slightly sweet infusion, has even more nutrition than the rolled oats. Drinking oat straw tea on a regular basis will help to strengthen the nerves and ease related conditions such as insomnia and depression.
Make an infusion with the dried straw, steeping two teaspoons in one cup of boiling water for ten minutes. Oat straw tea is excellent with a little honey. Add milk if desired as well. This herb is gentle enough for everyone and has the added benefit of improving the skin as well.
Valerian
Another potent relaxing herb that can help with nervousness is valerian. The dried roots and rhizomes of this plant can be infused in boiling water, two teaspoons for one cup, to make a calming tea. Valerian is slightly stronger than gentle oat straw. It will ease nervous tension, but it also helps in cases of sleeplessness and muscle pain. It contains volatile oils, which have a soothing effect on the nervous system. Valerian is also a source of B vitamins, calcium and magnesium. Try a cup of valerian tea after a long day of work, before going to sleep.
Skullcap
Like oats, skullcap is a tonic for the nerves. Using it regularly can be very beneficial for overcoming nervousness. A cup of this tea will instantly relax, while also revitalizing the central nervous system. It is packed with antioxidants and nutrients, including the B vitamins. Make an infusion with one teaspoon of the dried herb for one cup of boiling water. Skullcap does have a bitter taste. To ease nervousness, try this herb in tincture form if you do not like the taste of the tea.
Lime Blossom
Of all the herbs for nervousness, lime blossom may be the most enjoyable to drink in tea form. It has a sweet, floral aroma that blends well with other herbs to make fantastic calming infusions, such as chamomile, rose hips and passion flower. Use this herb if chronic stress is a problem. One teaspoon of the dried flowers can be steeped with one cup of boiling water for ten minutes to make a tea. Lime blossom also has a tonic effect on the circulatory system.
Using Herbs Safely
Talk to your doctor before using herbs for nervousness, or to treat any other ailment. All of these herbal remedies are safe for general use, however, pregnant women, people taking medication or anyone with a serious condition such as heart disease should definitely talk to their doctor before use. Oat straw is safe for children, but valerian and skullcap should not be given to young children.
Sources
Balch, Phyllis A. “Prescription for Nutritional Healing.” Fourth Edition (Penguin Books, 2006).
Hoffmann, David. “The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal: A Safe and Practical Guide to Making and Using Herbal Remedies.” (Element Books, 1996).