Herbs provide a natural method for relieving stress by calming your nerves. They are generally more suitable for long-term use versus other prescribed medications, which often have unwanted side-effects, such as poor digestion, drowsiness and dry mouth. Although herbs cannot cure the problems in your life, they are effective as a natural support that may decrease tension, anxiety and sleeping problems. Consider seeking herbal therapies that aid in stress relief along with a healthy diet, exercise, relaxation techniques and the support of family and a health professional. Do not use herbs for any medicinal purpose without a doctor's approval.
Nerve Calming Herbs
Step 1
Decrease stress and tension with passionflower, a traditional medicinal herb that calms nerves, decreases anxiety and alleviates insomnia. Passionflower can help you feel more relaxed by increasing GABA chemicals in the brain that make you feel good. Add one teaspoon of the dried herb to a cup of hot water for a herbal tea that you can drink three to four times per day. If using the fluid extract of the herb, take 10 to 30 drops daily. Check with a doctor before taking passionflower.
Step 2
Add chamomile to your daily diet to calm nerves and increase relaxation. Chamomile is also known as a remedy for its anti-spasmodic properties, which may relieve stomach upset and digestion. It is often used as a herbal tea to drink prior to bed to assist with sleep and relaxation. Look for chamomile teas in your grocery store or make your own by adding two to three tablespoons of the dried herb to a cup of hot, boiling water. Let the tea steep for five to 10 minutes for a more potent effect.
Step 3
Decrease anxiety with valerian, a natural root that decreases stress and promotes sleep. It functions in a similar manner as passionflower by increasing the amount of GABA chemicals in the brain that help to relieve anxiety. Valerian root is most commonly taken in pill or capsule form three to four times per day up to 200 mg at a time. Get a doctor's approval before you take valerian root.
Step 4
Add St.John's wort to your list the next time you visit your pharmacy or health store. This herb is best know as an anti-depressant without the side-effects that often occur with prescribed drugs such as constipation, fatigue, nausea or tremors. This herb works to relieve anxiety and calm nerves by inhibiting the enzyme mono amino oxidase. Ask a doctor if it is OK to take St. John's wort.
Step 5
Drink the herb kava kava to decrease nervous tension and ease nerves. Kava kava assists in decreasing anxiety regulating sleep problems such as insomnia by relaxing the muscles of the body. Drink this herb prior to bedtime for a restful sleep and to take harried nerves. Check with a doctor before you take kava kava.
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