Herbal Remedies for Stress and Insomnia

Stress is pervasive in today's society, and often causes symptoms of anxiety, irritability or insomnia. Calmatives or nervines are a class of herbs that have been traditionally used to alleviate nervous conditions and promote restful sleep. Here are examples of some herbal nervines that have been used to calm frazzled nerves, ease anxiety, and induce a restful night's sleep.

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)- This gentle herb with its small, daisy-like flowers is one of the best-known calmatives. The dried flowers are commonly made into a tea for soothing nervous tension and as a sleep aid. It also has anti-spasmodic properties and has been used as a remedy for indigestion.

Hops (Humulus lupulus)- One of the most potent herbal sedatives, hops is often used by those suffering from insomnia, as well as nervousness and anxiety. A formula to promote restful sleep is a tea or tincture made with a combination of hops, passion flower and valerian, taken half an hour before bed.

Kava kava (Piper methysticum)- Kava can be taken before bed for insomnia, or during the day for anxiety and nervousness. It also has analgesic properties and is used to alleviate menstrual cramps and muscle aches. Kava should never be used in combination with alcohol or prescription drugs, in particular barbiturates, tranquilizers or antidepressants, because it can intensify the effects of these drugs.

Lavender (Lavandula officinalis or Lavandula angustifolia )- Just breathing in lavender's soothing scent can help to bring about a feeling of calmness. As a nervine, the dried flowers can be added to herbal tea blends. Adding a few drops of lavender essential oil to a hot bath is an excellent way to induce relaxation.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)- A member of the mint family, lemon balm has a delightful citrus scent. A tea made of fresh or dried lemon balm leaves is soothing and relaxing. Lemon balm also has antispasmodic properties, and has been used to aid indigestion.

Passion flower (Passiflora incarnata)- This vine with beautiful purple flowers is often used as a decorative in gardens. Passion flower leaves have sedative properties. Brewed as a tea, this herb is has been used for agitation and restlessness, and also as an antispasmodic for cramps and muscular twitching. Passion flower is often combined with valerian for insomnia, taken as a tincture at bedtime.

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)- Named for its cap-shaped flowers, skullcap is an excellent all-around nervine that balances the nervous system. A tea made of skullcap and lavender can be used for symptoms of anxiety and nervous tension.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)- A strong sedative, valerian root can be used as a sleep aid and also to calm muscle spasms. It is usually taken as a tincture, and often combined with hops and passion flower. Due to its potent sedative properties, valerian should not be used in combination with prescription drugs for insomnia or anxiety.

Diet and lifestyle changes can make a dramatic difference in the way your body handles stress. Reducing the amount of stimulants such as coffee, black tea or caffeinated soft drinks will help to decrease agitation and anxiety. Get enough calcium by eating dairy products and dark green leafy vegetables.

Exercise is also an excellent stress-reliever. Even if it's just a short walk, it can help to get blood circulating and relax cramped muscles.

The simple act of pausing for a moment several times a day to take deep breaths and consciously relax can be quite effective in letting go of stress and promoting in a more peaceful frame of mind.

Precautions: The active components of herbs are potent, and some herbs can cause adverse reactions when taken in combination with prescription drugs. Always consult your health care professional before taking any herbal remedies. Herbal remedies should be avoided if pregnant or nursing.

Sources:

http://www.vitaminstuff.com/herbs.html

http://www.herbalremediesinfo.com/index.html

http://www.anxiety-and-depression-solutions.com/main/supplements.php

http://altmedicine.about.com/library/blsupplements.htm