Nervous System
The nervous system includes the brain, spinal cord, and a vast network of nerves. It is the communication network between the body and the brain. The herbs below have been traditionally used to support calming, mood, sleep, cognitive function, headache relief, and nervous system recovery.
The herbal information on this page is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herb, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a health condition.
Calming
Herbs that are calming and help alleviate stress, tension, and anxiety. They can also assist with relaxation and insomnia.
- California Poppy
- Chamomile
- Hops
- Lavender
- Lemon Balm
- Motherwort
- Skullcap
- Valerian
- Oats
- St. John's Wort
- Passionflower
- Catnip Gentle nervine; traditionally used for anxiety and restlessness, particularly in children.
- Damiana Nervine tonic traditionally used in Central American herbalism for anxiety and nervous exhaustion.
- Eleuthero Adaptogen that helps the nervous system cope with stress over time.
- Rhodiola Adaptogen traditionally used in Russian and Scandinavian folk medicine for stress, fatigue, and nervous system recovery.
- Ashwagandha Rasayana herb from Ayurveda; traditionally used to calm the nervous system, reduce cortisol, and support recovery from chronic stress.
- Linden Traditionally used in European herbalism as a mild nervine for tension and anxiety.
Brain Health
Memory and Focus
Herbs traditionally used to assist with memory and focus.
- Rosemary The essential oil is also excellent for aromatherapy use for memory and focus.
- Ginkgo Biloba Traditionally used in TCM; research suggests it increases blood flow to the brain and may support cognitive function.
- Gotu Kola Traditionally used in Ayurveda for mental clarity and nerve tissue support.
- Ginseng Adaptogen traditionally used in TCM to support mental performance and concentration.
Blood Flow to the Brain
Herbs traditionally used to increase circulation to the brain.
Mood Support
Herbs that can assist in improving mood. If you are taking prescription medication or are under the care of a physician, consult them before taking any of these herbs.
- California Poppy
- Skullcap
- Lavender Safe for children; the essential oil can also be used for aromatherapy.
- Lemon Balm
- Oats
- St. John's Wort May cause photosensitivity; use care if you will be in the sun.
- Damiana Traditionally used as a mood-lifting tonic in Mexican and Caribbean herbalism.
- Basil Holy Basil (Tulsi) is traditionally used in Ayurveda to reduce stress-related mood disturbances.
Headaches
Herbs traditionally used to ease pain from headaches due to tension or migraine.
Herb or Essential Oil
Insomnia
Herbs that can aid in falling asleep and getting a good, restful sleep. Take any of the following 30 minutes before bedtime.
- California Poppy
- Lavender
- Valerian
- Passionflower
- Hops
- Catnip Gentle and suitable for children and adults.
- Lemon Balm
Herpes and Shingles
Herbs that can assist with herpes and shingles outbreaks. If you are on medication for these conditions, check with your health care provider before taking any herbs internally.
- Lemon Balm
- Passionflower
- Elder
- St. John's Wort Topical application traditionally used for nerve pain associated with shingles.
Eyes and Ears
Herbs traditionally used to assist eye and ear conditions such as conjunctivitis and ear infections.
- Garlic Drops of garlic-infused oil can be warmed and placed in the ear for ear infections.
- Mullein The flower can be infused in oil, warmed, and dropped in the ear.
- Calendula Traditionally used as a topical anti-inflammatory for eye irritation (as an eyewash) and ear conditions.
- Echinacea Immune support traditionally used alongside other remedies for ear infections.
Shop Nervous System Support Products
- Nervine Tonic Damiana, oat tops, skullcap, and verbena to calm and nourish the nervous system.
- Relaxing Tonic Lemon balm, motherwort, and kava kava for stress relief and deep calm.
- Sleep Tonic Valerian, passionflower, and skullcap for deep, restorative sleep.
- Mood Lifting Tonic St. John's wort, passionflower, oat tops, and ginseng for emotional uplift.
- Heavenly Relaxation Herbal Tea Blend Lemon balm, passionflower, skullcap, and St. John's wort for evening calm.
- Head Ease Herbal Tea Blend Feverfew, peppermint, chamomile, and skullcap for headache and tension relief.
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- Back to School Herbs: Boost Focus and Calm Rosemary and lavender for concentration and nervous system support.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases. If you are under the care of a health care provider and/or taking prescription medication, check with your health care provider before taking any herbal supplement.