Are you struggling to relax and get a good night's sleep? Incorporating herbs into your routine might be the solution you've been looking for. Here are some of the best herbs known for their calming and sleep-inducing properties.
1. Lavender
Lavender is a popular herb known for its soothing aroma. Whether used in essential oil form, dried in sachets, or brewed into tea, sprinkled it a shortbread cookie, or used as incense, lavender can help promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep. Our favorite lavender is from Blue Canyon Farm here in beautiful Utah.
2. Chamomile
Chamomile is another well-known herb that is often used to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. This gentle herb can be consumed as a tea before bedtime to help calm the mind and body.
3. Valerian Root
Valerian root has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for insomnia and anxiety. It is believed to increase levels of a neurotransmitter called GABA, which helps regulate nerve cells and calm the nervous system. Heads up, it does not taste nice. Best consumed as a capsule or tincture.
4. Passionflower
Passionflower is a beautiful herb that is known for its calming effects on the body. It can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality by increasing levels of GABA in the brain. It's lovely in tea or tincture.
5. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a member of the mint family and is often used to reduce stress and promote relaxation. It can be consumed as a tea or taken in supplement form to help calm the mind and body. I was first introduced to it as a garden herb to garnish lemonade which was very nice. It's easy to grow, but like all mints, is best to grow in a container as it love to spread. Also called Melissa, lemon balm is expensive in essential oil form, but its aromatherapeutic properties are amazing. I think it smells like lemon drops.
6. Ashwagandha/Shatavari
Ashwagandha and Shatavari roots are adaptogenic herbs that help the body cope with stress and anxiety. By reducing cortisol levels, ashwagandha can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Shatavari works very much the same way but has more of an affinity with the female systems.
By incorporating these herbs into your daily routine, you can experience the calming and sleep-inducing benefits they have to offer. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist before adding any new herbs to your regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
Be Blessed, Blessed Be,
Rachel Joy