15 Herbs & Plants to Harness the Earth's Healing Bounty

Many herbs and natural substances have been traditionally used for their stress-relief properties. While their effectiveness can vary from person to person, here are some herbs and natural remedies that are often used to help reduce stress and anxiety:

1. Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that can help the body adapt to stress and reduce anxiety. It is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine.

2. Valerian Root: Valerian is known for its sedative properties and is often used to alleviate stress and promote relaxation. It can be consumed as a tea or in supplement form.

3. Passionflower: Passionflower has been used traditionally to treat anxiety and insomnia. It can help calm the nervous system and reduce stress.

4. Lemon Balm: Lemon balm is a member of the mint family and is used to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It can be consumed as a tea or taken as a supplement.

5. Kava Kava: Kava is a traditional herb from the South Pacific that is used for its sedative and anxiety-reducing effects. It's available in various forms, including capsules, extracts, and teas.

6. Chamomile: Chamomile is a well-known herb that has calming and soothing properties. Chamomile tea is a popular remedy for reducing stress and anxiety.

7. Lavender: Lavender is commonly used in aromatherapy for its relaxing scent. You can use lavender essential oil in a diffuser, as a room spray, or in a bath to help reduce stress.

8. Rhodiola Rosea: Rhodiola is an adaptogenic herb that can help the body adapt to stress and improve energy levels. It is used to combat the physical and mental effects of stress.

9. St. John's Wort: St. John's Wort is often used to alleviate symptoms of mild to moderate depression and anxiety. It's available in various forms, including capsules and tinctures.

10. Ginkgo Biloba: Ginkgo biloba is an herbal supplement that can help improve cognitive function and reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress.

11. Linden Flower: Linden flower tea is known for its calming effects and is often used to reduce anxiety and stress.

12. Turmeric: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce stress-related inflammation in the body.

13. Oatstraw: Oatstraw is a mild nervine herb that can help calm the nervous system and reduce stress. It's often used in tea blends.

14. Holy Basil (Tulsi): Holy basil is an adaptogenic herb that can help the body cope with stress and reduce anxiety. It's often consumed as a tea or supplement.

15. Motherwort: Motherwort is used to reduce anxiety and stress and can be taken as a tea or tincture.