Relaxation is important. After a long day of work, sometimes you just need to switch off your worries, kick your feet up, and relax – but it’s not always that easy.
Switching off from the stresses and toils of the day can sometimes be a struggle. A good bath and a cup of tea can often help but sometimes, even that isn’t enough.
Fortunately, in these situations, there are some natural products we can turn to help us let go and relax. Mother nature has gifted us with a whole bunch of herbs that function as relaxants, helping us to de-stress, let go of anxiety, and sleep well.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the top 5 herbs that can help you to relax. Let’s start with number one…
1. Lavender
Lavender is a herb which grows in the Mediterranean, but long ago became famous in the west for its stress and pain-relieving properties. By now, lavender essential oils are almost synonymous with relaxation in the west.
These perceived effects have been backed up by science too. According to one study in 2012, for example, lavender was able to significantly reduce headache severity in migraine sufferers. A separate study on nursing home patients found that aromatherapy with lavender essential was able to decrease agitation in the study participants.
The pleasant smell means it works great in a candle or bath too!
2. Chamomile
Chamomile is another herb that has thoroughly secured its place in the west as a legitimate relaxant and sleep aid. It can help to relieve digestion, calm nerves, reduce motion sickness, and, most importantly, give you a good nights sleep!
Most people consume chamomile in a hot beverage. Chamomile teas and milk are all the rage and for good reason!
3. Schisandra
Whereas the two herbs above are known in the Western world, this next herb is most well-known in the East. Schisandra which has often been called the ‘Chinese Prozac’ thanks to its stress-relieving properties
It’s super popular in China and used copiously as part of their cuisine, despite not being super tasty. As well as reducing stress hormones, it’s also believed to help improve physical performance, which makes it popular amongst athletes.
4. Ashwagandha
Another natural product with its roots in the East, Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic stress-relieving herb from India. It’s a root that is very popular in India and is often brewed to be consumed as a tea.
As well as helping to reduce stress and agitation, it’s also believed to help bolster the immune system and to have anti-ageing properties
5. Indica
The final natural herb on this list is Indica. It’s also the most powerful. This is a highly-potent herb that eases anxiety, relieves stress, and helps you to relax. The most potent indica strains are really heavy hitters. It’s important to check the legal status of these herbs in your own country before purchasing or taking them and strictly stick to recommended doses and legal guidelines.
