Anxiety can show up in so many ways. It can appear as tightness in the chest, a racing mind, difficulty sleeping, digestive unease, or that familiar butterfly flutter in the belly.

Anxiety can build a home in our bodies, our breath, and our habits. A genuinely holistic approach to anxiety looks at the whole person. This includes examining our sleep patterns, eating habits, movement, stress management, and, of course, our favorite – how we can turn to medicinal plant allies for support.

When I work with herbs for anxiety, I tend to draw from two main categories: nervines and adaptogens. Nervines are herbs that directly support the nervous system. Some nervines calm and soothe, while others nourish and restore. On the other hand, adaptogens are more like our long-game allies. Adaptogens help the body to have a better response to stress and cortisol levels over time through building resilience. Nervines and adaptogens combined with mineral-rich nutrition and daily rituals offer a grounded and multifaceted path to ease anxiety.

A List of Nervines: Herbs that Soothe

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) – Bright, citrusy, and mood-lifting. Lemon balm is a gentle relaxant that helps calm anxiety, ease tension in the gut, and support restful sleep.

Milky oats (Avena sativa) – A tonic for frazzled, burned-out systems. Milky oats (and oatstraw) nourish depleted nerves and offer a steadying, restorative presence over time while simultaneously being mineral-rich. 

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) – One of my go-to herbs for racing thoughts and nighttime anxiety. Skullcap helps quiet circular thinking and promotes deeper rest.

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) – Dreamy and sedative, passionflower gently eases overactive thoughts, restlessness, and emotional agitation. It is beneficial when anxiety makes it hard to sleep. It is considered a cooling herb, too. Try our Peace & Calm Tea Blend!

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) – A soft, familiar ally for nervous digestion, tension, and emotional overwhelm. Lovely in tea, baths, or compresses. An excellent tea for young children. Try our Calm Child Tea Blend! 

Linden (Tilia spp.) – Calming for both the heart and the mind, linden soothes grief, heartache, and emotional heat. It is terrific in blends for children or those needing extra gentleness. 

A List of Adaptogens: Herbs that Build Resilience

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) – A deeply grounding adaptogen that supports thyroid function, balances cortisol, and eases anxiety rooted in depletion. Best used consistently and under practitioner guidance. 

Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) – Also known as holy basil, tulsi is a spiritual and emotional adaptogen. It is uplifting, clarifying, and protective. It has both mood-lifting and immune-supporting qualities. There are many closely-related varieties of tulsi which slightly differ in taste including Vana, Rama, and Krishna tulsi varieties. 

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) –Rhodiola can sharpen focus while supporting emotional endurance. Especially helpful for mental fatigue and burnout. 

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) – A medicinal mushroom known for its deep immune and nervous system support. Reishi calms the spirit and the heart space, supporting long-term resilience.

Try our adaptogenic Stress Adapt Tincture!

Nutritional Foundations

If you are experiencing regular anxiety, your nervous system may need more minerals, a supportive blood sugar balance protocol, and stable nourishment (i.e., consistent meal times). Magnesium, B vitamins, and amino acids all play a decisive role in mental health and calm.

Herbs like Nettle, Oatstraw, and Red Clover are also rich in bioavailable minerals. A strong overnight infusion of these herbs can provide nervous system building blocks while also supporting hydration and hormone balance. Try our Mineral Tonic Tea Blend. 

Eating regular and balanced meals (ones with protein, healthy fats, and slow carbohydrates) can go a long way in regulating mood and energy. Do not underestimate the power of food as medicine - especially for anxious hearts!

Integration, Not Escape

It is important to note that we are not looking to numb or bypass anxiety. Alternatively, we are looking to create conditions for deeper regulation, rest, and clarity. Herbal medicine reminds us that the body can soften and that there is support available in every sip of tea and every deep breath.

Suppose you are looking for a supportive formula to get started. In that case, we have created blends in our apothecary that bring together nervines and adaptogens in harmony – offering both immediate and long-term support. May your path towards peace be gentle and supported by the plants!