10 Herbs for Stress & Anxiety And How to Use Them

With school starting I have found myself leaning on my favorite stress and anxiety herbs for both myself and my littles. Now some people may roll their eyes at me but, new studies are being conducted every day that confirm what herbalists have known for centuries; that herbs are powerful tools to help with everything, including stress and anxiety. This time of year there is a lot of change happening and change is hard, at any age, so I thought you guys might enjoy learning more about some amazing herbs for stress and anxiety.

If you are interested in using some of these herbs with your kids I strongly suggest referencing my Children’s Herbal Mini-book, for proper dosing and instruction.

Lavender
One of the most popular herbs in the world is known to boost mood, reduce anxiety and improve sleep. Lavender is a relaxing nervine, which means it nourishing and calms the nervous system. 

Passionflower
Another relaxing nervine, passion flower is often employed in cases of nervous energy. There is even evidence that its effects are similar to that of benzodiazepines. 

Ashwagandha
An adaptogen herb that has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine as a method for increasing vitality, and stamina, as well as relieving the symptoms of overwhelm. New studies back this up with reports of lower cortisol and improved sleep after continued use (studies like this and like this). 

Kava Kava
Kava Kava is another nervine known to elevate mood, well-being, and relaxation. It is also commonly used as a muscle relaxant, local anesthetic, and anti-spasmodic. If you are someone who gets headaches, or shoulder tension due to stress this is a great herbal option. 

Tulsi (Holy Basil)
A catch-all calming herb that has both adaptogen and nervine properties. It has been shown to protect against stress through positive effects on memory and cognitive function, optimizing blood sugar levels, and regulating cortisol. 

Skullcap
A nervine herb native to the Americas and has been used in Native American medicine for thousands of years as a relaxing and mood-boosting herb as well as for conditions like insomnia. 

Lemon Balm
Known as the sunshine herb this rapidly growing herb has been used to reduce stress, and anxiety, and improve sleep, appetite, and “nervous stomach”. It is gentle enough to be used by children but powerful enough to assist adults who suffer from anxiety, or nervousness. It has even been shown to improve cognitive function. 

Astragalus Root
Having been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years there is a lot of evidence to back the benefits of Astragalus Root. It has benefits for the immune system, liver, and cardiovascular systems and is often considered one of the best herbs to promote longevity. Studies show that it has benefits for chronic fatigue, cancer,  and blood sugar balancing. 

Reishi
A mushroom that has gained a lot of popularity lately for its capabilities as an adaptogen and immune system support. Studies (like this and this) show its power to help fight fatigue, anxiety, and depression.  

Rhodiola
An herb commonly used to increase energy, stamina, and mental capacity, as well as help manage the symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. It is often suggested as a gentle herb for assisting with symptoms of burnout, and chronic stress.