Written By: Irina Sapilo – Owner of Iris Wellness (Herbal Wellness, Handcrafted Organic Skincare)
In today’s fast-paced world, stress is a common challenge. Fortunately, nature provides us with powerful herbs that can help calm the mind and support overall well-being. Here are some easy-to-use herbs for stress relief that you can incorporate into your daily routine.
1. Chamomile – helps reduce anxiety, promotes restful sleep, and soothes digestive discomfort caused by stress. Enjoy it as a tea by steeping 1-2 tsp of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of hot water for 5–10 minutes.
2. Lavender – has a relaxing aroma that eases stress and promotes emotional balance. Use dried lavender in tea, add essential oil to a diffuser, or place a sachet under your pillow for better sleep.
3. Lemon Balm – a gentle, uplifting herb that helps reduce stress and improve mood. It can be taken as a tea or tincture. Try making a tea by steeping 1-2 tsp of fresh or dried lemon balm leaves in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes.
4. Ashwagandha – a powerful adaptogen that helps the body manage stress by balancing cortisol levels. It can be taken as a powder mixed into warm milk, smoothies, or herbal tea.
5. Passionflower – is great for reducing anxiety and promoting restful sleep. It works well as a tea or tincture, especially before bedtime.
6. Holy Basil (or tulsi) – is an adaptogen that helps the body cope with stress while boosting mental clarity. You can brew tulsi tea or add fresh leaves to your meals.
Besides having a tea or a tincture, herbs like chamomile and lavender can also be used as an herbal bath for a relaxing soak: just add the dried herbs to bathwater and enjoy!
Here are a few stress-relief herbal recipes you can use at home:
Calming Herbal Tea Blend
Ingredients:
• 2 parts chamomile
• 1 part lemon balm
• 1 part passionflower
• ½ part lavender
Instructions:
Mix the dried herbs and store them in an airtight container. Steep 1–2 teaspoons in hot water for 5–10 minutes. This tea helps relax the nervous system and promote restful sleep.
Stress-Relief Herbal Bath Soak
Ingredients:
• ½ cup dried lavender
• ½ cup dried chamomile
• ½ cup Epsom salt
• ¼ cup baking soda
• 10 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients and store in a glass jar. Add ½ cup to a warm bath for a soothing soak that eases stress and tension.
By incorporating these herbs into your routine, you can naturally support your body’s stress response and find greater peace in daily life.
Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new herbal regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
Irina Sapilo – Owner of Iris Wellness (Herbal Wellness, Handcrafted Organic Skincare)
Website: www.iriswellness.ca
Email: emailme@iriswellness.ca
Instagram: @iris_ _wellness
Facebook: @Iris Wellness