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Life is stressful…very stressful. There is a lot of chaos and uncertainty happening in the world. And plenty of anger and fear as well. My nervous system has always been on hyperdrive! It’s only recently that I’ve discovered that having a neurodivergent brain can contribute to additional mental and physical stress. I’ve always struggled to relax, and I’ve dealt with more than my fair share of anxiety. At times, it has overworked me so much that I find myself exhausted and struggling with focus and motivation (especially problematic for those who are neurodivergent). I am overly sensitive to a lot of medications. So, I love to find natural solutions when possible. What do I do when I need to give some extra love to my nervous system? I turn to nervine herbs.
What are nervine herbs?
Nervine herbs are plants that support the nervous system by calming, strengthening, or stimulating it. They can be categorized into three main types:
Nervine Relaxants – This group of herbs is known to calm and soothe the nervous system.
Nervine Tonics – These herbs nourish and strengthen the nervous system. This is important while going through big life challenges.
Nervine Stimulants – These herbs gently energize the nervous system.
Each of these groups of herbs can be used for different things. Let’s take a look at each of these categories, the herbs within them, and their benefits.
Calming and soothing herbs
If you find yourself dealing with high amounts of stress or feeling a bit anxious, these herbs may help soothe your nervous system!
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Lemon balm is a fragrant herb in the mint family known for its calming and uplifting properties. Traditionally used in herbal medicine, it helps reduce stress, anxiety, and insomnia while also supporting digestion and brain function. It is rich in antioxidants and antiviral compounds and may boost the immune system and soothe cold sores. Whether enjoyed as a tea, tincture, or essential oil, this versatile herb is a gentle yet powerful ally for overall well-being.
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
Chamomile is a gentle, soothing herb known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. It is well known and enjoyed as a tea. It helps reduce stress, anxiety, and insomnia while also aiding digestion and relieving bloating. Chamomile’s natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds make it beneficial for soothing skin irritations, easing menstrual cramps, and supporting immune health. With its delicate floral aroma, chamomile is a cherished herb for relaxation and overall well-being.
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)
Passionflower is known for its calming and sedative effects. It has traditionally been used to reduce anxiety, stress, and insomnia. It works by increasing GABA levels in the brain and promotes relaxation without drowsiness. Passionflower also helps ease mild pain and may assist in reducing symptoms of menopause and ADHD. Whether taken as tea, tincture, or supplement, this soothing herb is a natural ally for mental and emotional well-being. This is one of my personal go-to herbs when I’m feeling anxious or am facing stress.
Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)
Skullcap is a calming herb traditionally used to support the nervous system and ease anxiety, stress, and insomnia. It helps quiet racing thoughts, relax muscle tension, and soothe frazzled nerves. Skullcap is also valued for its ability to gently restore balance to an overworked system, making it a go-to herb for those needing long-term nervous system support.
Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis)
Valerian is a powerful root known for its strong sedative effects, often used to promote deep sleep and relieve anxiety. It works by increasing GABA levels in the brain, helping to calm the mind and body. Valerian is particularly helpful for those struggling with insomnia, restlessness, or tension, though its strong aroma and taste may take some getting used to.
Nervine Tonics (Strengthening & Restorative)
Oatstraw (Avena sativa)
Oatstraw is a deeply nourishing herb prized for its gentle support of the nervous system. Rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium, oatstraw helps strengthen and restore depleted nerves, ease stress, and promote emotional resilience. It’s often enjoyed as a tea or infusion, providing a soothing, tonic effect that builds over time.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen used in Ayurvedic medicine to help the body manage stress and restore balance. It supports adrenal health, boosts energy, improves sleep, and enhances resilience to physical and emotional stressors. Ashwagandha is also known for its ability to sharpen focus, lift mood, and promote a grounded sense of calm.
Tulsi/Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum)
Tulsi (Holy Basil) is a sacred herb in Ayurvedic tradition, known for its powerful adaptogenic properties. Tulsi helps the body manage stress, supports immune function, promotes mental clarity, and balances energy levels. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making it a wonderful herb for overall vitality and emotional resilience. This is one of my go-to herbs! I regularly drink Tulsi tea, which has a gentle mint-like flavor. I have always found Tulsi to be very soothing for my nervous system.
Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)
Gotu Kola is a revered herb for brain health, memory, and emotional balance. It supports cognitive function, promotes circulation, and encourages calm focus. Gotu kola is also known for its ability to strengthen connective tissues, aid skin healing, and support the nervous system, making it a favorite for both mental and physical rejuvenation.
St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
St. John’s Wort is widely used to uplift mood and support emotional well-being. It is known for helping mild to moderate depression, easing anxiety, and promoting a sense of inner brightness. In addition to its mood-balancing effects, it has antiviral and wound-healing properties, although it must be used carefully due to its interactions with certain medications.
Nervine Stimulants (Energizing & Awakening)
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary is good for more than just giving your food some amazing flavor! It also helps stimulate memory, sharpens focus, and energizes the mind. It’s rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, supporting both brain and heart health. Rosemary’s invigorating properties make it ideal for lifting mental fog, enhancing cognitive performance, and even boosting mood.
Ginseng (Panax ginseng)
Ginseng is a powerful adaptogen celebrated for increasing energy, stamina, and mental clarity. It helps the body cope with stress, enhances immune function, and promotes overall vitality. Ginseng is often used to combat fatigue, improve physical endurance, and support balanced blood sugar and hormonal health. When it comes to natural support for ADHD, ginseng is one that is always recommended! It has been shown to not only improve working memory but also to improve symptoms of both hyperactive and inattentive ADHD.
Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)
Rhodiola is another personal favorite of mine. It is a remarkable adaptogen known for boosting resilience to stress, enhancing physical endurance, and improving mental performance. It helps balance cortisol levels, uplift mood, and reduce fatigue, especially in times of physical or emotional burnout. Rhodiola is prized for its ability to restore vitality and promote a sense of balanced energy. I find that when my brain is having trouble focusing, or when I’m struggling with fatigue, this gives me energy and helps me focus!
As a witch, should you choose to use any of these herbs to support your nervous system, don’t forget to also infuse your use with some intention. Any time you take herbs for their health benefits and include intention, it becomes a healing spell! Your words are powerful, so use them!
Before using any herb, it is important to research contraindications to medications or supplements that you may be using. Always be an informed consumer!