2) Using Herbal Medicine to Lighten up
For centuries, herbal medicine has been used to support and nourish the nervous system. In turn, the nervous system supports and determines our mood, emotional stability and balance. Western herbalism recognizes three major categories of herbs that act on the nervous system, collectively called Nervines. These three categories are: nervine tonics, nervine relaxants and nervine stimulants.
Nervine Tonics feed, rehabilitate and tone the nervous system. They feed the nerve tissue directly and are generally high in B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, and protein. Most are mild in action and can be taken over a long period of time. These are often the support herbs found in nervous system formulas. Examples are: Oatstraw and Tops (avina sativa), Skullcap (scullitaria lateriflora), Wood Betony (betonia officianlis), and Chamomile (anthermis nobilis).
Nervine Relaxants are herbs that directly relax the nervous system, ease pain, tension and aid in sleeping. They accomplish this by soothing and nourishing the peripheral nerves and muscle tissue. Examples are: Passionflower (passiflora incarnata), St John’s Wort (hypericum perforatum), Valerian (valerian officinalis), Lemon Balm (melissa officinalis), Hops (humulus lupulus), and Cramp Bark (viburnum opulus).
Nervine Stimulants are herbs that gently spark the system. These herbs are not what we commonly think of as stimulants like caffeine, chocolate, sugar or drugs. They are most often potent herbs that activate the nerve endings by increasing circulation, providing nutrients and increasing vitality. They do not provoke the system nor agitate it but rather awaken and revitalize it. Examples are: Peppermint (menthe piperita), Gingko (gingko biloba), Gotu Kola (centella asiatica), Spearmint (menthe spicata), Cayenne (capsicum annuum), and Ginger (zingibar officinalis).
Nervines harmonize and soothe the nervous system. By nourishing and feeding the nervous system, the physical and emotional body has the ability to be strong and healthy. When we are physically and emotionally in balance we feel positive, vital and happy. Using herbs in a tea blend is a beautiful way to see, feel and smell the herbs. Drinking a cup of tea to relax and recharge is a healthful way to support and nourish the nervous system while inviting a healthy and happy attitude.
By: Anne Marshall, BA, LMT
Resources: Family Herbal, A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health, and Vitality by Rosemary Gladstar
Anne is a practicing herbalist in Palm Coast. She owns LifeThyme Café and Wellness a new business in City Walk. She offers herbal consultations and herbal products in her store. She will be giving an herbal workshop March 6th-7th. Please call LifeThyme for more information. 386-597-2838
Published in Natural Awakenings Feb 2010
