All three of these unique categories of herbs have two elements in common: they focus on their individual tasks and they each have different effects on our bodies and their systems.
Nerves
A nervine is an extensive spectrum of plants or herbs used to interact with the nervous system. Nerve cells are known to help the nervous system restore balance. They help to bring back the ease within ourselves and support our systems to calm down and take a ‘chill pill’. Nervine’s are divided into three different columns: relaxants, stimulants and tonics. It is important to know the differences between these categories as they provide contrasting effects.
- Nerve tonics are useful when someone has undergone extreme stress. Nerve tonics can also be helpful when someone is recovering from substance abuse or has been exposed to trauma. Whether the trauma is physical or mental, nerve tonics will find their way into your heart. Nerve tonics have a deeply restorative effect and are therefore useful when taken over a longer period of time. This allows the herbs to build up in your system while directly targeting the tissues.
- Nerve relaxants are herbs that help bring a sense of peace and tranquility to a person’s nervous system. Nerve relaxants can be used at any time of the day as they are known to help bring stability to our mind and digestive tracts. Some beautiful nerves that will help calm and soothe your soul are chamomile (great in tea), skullcap, milky oats, California poppy, and valerian. One of my favorite herbal combinations is the Serious Relaxer formula from WishGarden. Personally, I have not only experienced physical relaxation, but it has also brought me mental clarity and peace.
- Nerve stimulants do exactly what you would think: they stimulate the nervous system! If you suffer from sluggishness, this is the nervous group for you. Nerve stimulants cause direct stimulation of the nervous system, which in turn promotes the restoration of balance and harmony within the body and mind. If you tend to have anxious feelings occasionally or have an overactive nervous system, nerve stimulants should not be used. This can lead to increased feelings of worry and unwanted energy.
Adaptogens
Adaptogens are classified as therapeutic herbal substances. They help strengthen our body’s natural response to stress. To be considered a true adaptogen, there are three criteria that the herbs must meet. First, an adaptogen should be considered non-toxic when taken in the recommended serving size. Secondly, it should be able to support the body’s overall ability to combat stress and have a rebalancing effect to help guide the body back to homeostasis. Because adaptogens help regulate stress, studies have shown that adaptogens work through the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. This mechanism creates an environment that can help regulate the production of stress hormones. As humans, we are naturally wired for “fight or flight” mode, which is our body’s natural stress response. Stress can present itself in many ways. Studying for an exam, going through a difficult breakup, or experiencing the death of a loved one can trigger this response.
When our flight or fight mode is activated, the hypothalamus in our brain signals to increase cortisol production. Cortisol is our stress hormone and is used in combination with adaptogens to support our body’s functioning needs. Without cortisol, our bodies would not be able to regulate themselves due to inflammation, low energy levels, metabolic processes and more. By adding adaptogenic herbs, we can help stabilize our body and regulate our flight or fight response. Some examples of commonly known adaptogens are: Ashwagandha, Eleuthero, Rhodiola, Licorice and my personal favorite, Turmeric! WishGarden’s Emotional Ally: A Big Herbal Hug formula contains the adaptogens Milky Oats and Skullcap, which provide perfect support in times of loss and grief.
Alternatives
Looking for overall improved health? They are alternatives. They are used to support our body’s natural processes and to help restore overall vitality. There is a quote from Jim McDonald that sums it up perfectly: “Alterative herbs nourish and nourish the body to promote systemic harmony.” A plant known to contain alternative actions, it is said to open our elimination channels while supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes. When we experience a buildup of waste, whether it’s related to pesticides, cellular waste, environmental toxins, or intestinal imbalances, our bodies need alternative herbs more than ever because they can support the body’s natural elimination process. Too much toxins and waste in our tissues can make us feel sluggish and lower our immunity. The 5 main elimination channels are: skin, kidneys, lungs, liver and intestines. Rosemary, Yarrow, Calendula, Ginger & Nettle are all herbs that support these organs.
If we listen carefully enough, our body will tell us what it needs. Make sure you listen and proceed with an open heart. There are great herbal remedies to support our natural ability to thrive!
Taylor Marie Fleshman is an aspiring herbalist. She is currently taking courses at Herbalism Roots in Denver, Colorado. Her goal is to educate her community about the power behind medicinal herbs and the importance of staying connected to Mother Nature. She works as a Customer Journey Representative here at WishGarden Herbs.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or to sell any product.
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