Stress and anxiety are very common in the world today. Stress affects everyone and can have profoundly negative effects on our emotional and physical health. Since ancient times, people have used herbal medicine to treat symptoms and common ailments. Today, with the use of antidepressants and other prescription medications many people are turning to traditional herbal remedies to help their anxiety in a more natural way. Here are some herbs with the ability to aid your stress and anxiety.

Chamomile

Chamomile is one of the most common herbal remedies. A study published in Phytomedicine journal in December 2016 found that chamomile can reduce the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder beyond placebo. In other words, it does in fact have medicinal qualities when used for anxiety. This means that chamomile is a great choice if you are looking to relax. Chamomile is often enjoyed as a tea. It can be enjoyed by simply adding the flower head to boiling water and letting it steep for a few minutes or you can combine other herbs such as mint or basil and sweeten their tea with honey. You can order your chamomile seeds directly from Rohrer Seeds so that you can add this tested and true remedy into your garden. 

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is in the mint family and is closely related to both mint and spearmint plants. It is known for its medicinal qualities in reducing anxiety and depression, improving cognitive ability and fixing insomnia. Modern studies on lemon balm have shown that it can be effective in improving the general mood of volunteers and improves alertness. It is clear to see why lemon balm has been used for thousands of years as an herbal remedy, the ancient Greeks wisely used this for a variety of ailments. The best way to take lemon balm is to add it to your tea, but it is also a good addition to food as an herb due to its unique flavor. 

Lavender

Hibiscus

The hibiscus flower is another great herb used to treat stress and anxiety! It is capable of fighting depression and insomnia, plus it has Vitamin C which is great for preventing sickness and promoting energy. The Indian Journal of Pharmacology concluded that hibiscus extract is able to improve the mental state of those who take it. The study also noted that depression is a worldwide health epidemic that should be taken seriously.

Hibiscus is found all over the world in warmer/tropical regions and is often used for tea, both hot and iced. It has a unique taste that is both tart and sweet. Its petals are pink but when dried become red or purple which then produces a deep red color when added to tea. Combined with fruit it makes a lovely and refreshing drink that will help you relax!

St. John's Wort

St. John's wort is a peculiar looking plant with small yellow blooms. Historically, it is called St. John's wort because it has often bloomed on or around the birthday of John the Baptist, June 24. It has been used medicinally for many centuries to treat anxiety and depression. Studies have shown that it has depression fighting ability that is as strong as some prescription anti-depressants. It is most commonly made into tea. It is best taken in very small amounts, please use with caution. 

Try making your own tea from the garden with this recipe!

For homemade tea blends there is a lot of variety available so you can choose to add or mix different flavor profiles. This recipe below is to make a light flavored tea that will help clam your nerves, it has floral notes with some minty taste from the lemon balm. It is best enjoyed hot but would also make a good iced tea for summer days. 

Disclaimer: if you are on prescription medicines or pregnant/nursing please consult your doctor before using any of these herbs. Drug interactions with certain medications may occur.