6 Calming Herbs That Can Help With Stress

When the pressure is rising…

Consider the healing & relaxing power of herbs

Whether it’s the pressure of the holiday season or everyday life, stress can wreck havoc on our bodies and minds if we let it fester. Need to keep your stress levels at bay? Consider the healing and relaxing power of herbs.

Adding herbs to your food, bevvies, and even baths, can help make a difference. And it doesn’t have to be fancy! Here's a list of 6 over the counter herbs that you can pick up at the grocery or health food store to promote relaxation. As always, of course consult your doctor or holistic practitioner, if needed before jumping in.

Lavender

Lavender contains chemicals called terpenes, which can have a calming effect on your brain.

Ginger and turmeric: We may be pretty familiar with the power of ginger and turmeric to reduce inflammation and help us on the digestion front, but did you also know that they can help diminish anxiety? Chop up ginger and add it to water for tea. You can also sprinkle turmeric into your green juice, add it to your morning scramble, or rice at lunch for an extra boost. 

Lavender: Lavender contains chemicals called terpenes, which can have a calming effect on your brain. Lavender tea is delightful and rubbing lavender essential oil on pressure points can help. You can also use lavender in baking, especially with cookies! Combine it into a fierce marinade to pour over potatoes or roasted veggies; using dried lavender, olive oil, salt and pepper.  

Oregano, thyme and rosemary

This powerful trio is of course often used to flavor food, like spaghetti and soups, but did you know that oregano and thyme contain antioxidants which protect your cells from stress and toxins?

Oregano, thyme and rosemary: This powerful trio is of course often used to flavor food, like spaghetti and soups, but did you know that oregano and thyme contain antioxidants which protect your cells from stress and toxins? You can also use them to get rid of a cough. They are great immune boosters. Rosemary pairs well with lavender and thyme, and can help with heartburns and headaches. Try sprinkling some rosemary in your bath too, it can ease eczema symptoms and muscle pain. 

There are many other herbs that you can research or discuss with an herbalist that will help decrease stress, including ashwagandha, valerian, peppermint, and chamomile.

Herb Flavored String Beans

One of our favorite family dishes using herbs: It includes blanched string beans, sauteed with grapeseed oil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, a little pepper, sea salt, and a dash of vegan butter.

Thanks for reading! For more resources for busy moms who want to lead healthier, plant-based lives: Follow me @getmommafied on Instagram, and subscribe to my monthly Mommafied Note.