Herbal Allies to Support Letting Go

Herbal allies to support letting go emotionally:

In herbalism, roses are believed to help calm the nervous system and specifically have an affinity to the heart. 

A simple way to use rose is by incorporating petals into a warm bath. Distilling rose petals into water, or using them in a tincture, can help facilitate healing from trauma, grief, or nervous energy. 

A plant ally that is abundant here in Kansas in the spring and summer is Lemon Balm. It's outstanding for providing comfort in emotional healing. Lemon Balm brings wonderful flavor to any herbal tea and is also beneficial when used in a warm bath or tinctures to help ease anxiety. 

Herbal allies to support letting go of physical pain & discomfort:

California Poppy helps to slightly numb out an excessive pain response. 

When you look at the leaves of this plant, they are silvery blue in color and lined with red. In what we call the Doctrine of Signatures, this indicates heat forcing itself outward towards the periphery, driven to the surface where tension in the tissues can trap it. 

Turmeric contains curcumin which has been shown to reduce pain with an affinity for the nervous system. Turmeric also contains natural blood-thinning compounds, as well as ginger, so people on medications should consult a medical professional about possible drug interactions. 

Herbal allies to support presence of mind: 

Bacopa, a nervine that grows wild in parts of Texas and other southern states, has an affinity for warm, wet climates. It is used traditionally in Ayurvedic practices to support healthy brain function. 

Calendula, or what I like to think of as “herbal sunshine”, is a specific remedy for Seasonal Affective Disorder. However, Calendula offers many other health benefits, but I always like to throw some in a tea to brighten my spirits at all times of the year. 

One of my favorites, Kava, found in the South Pacific, is used to support the nervous system in times of occasional, mild anxiety. I find that it promotes a peaceful relaxation, and I enjoy kava root distilled into a tea and taken before I practice yoga and then venture off to bed. 

This is just a small sampling of herbs and plant allies that help in supporting your body, mind, and spirit on its journey to health. Remember, herbs & plants are not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is best to consult with someone versed in plant medicine in order to find what best supports your body & its needs. And as always, adjusting one’s lifestyle to achieve the desired outcome is incredibly important.