Herbs for Mental Health
Discover nine herbs that have a long history of promoting mental well-being. These natural remedies have been used traditionally to support various aspects of mental health, from improving mood to reducing stress.
Mulungu Bark
Indigenous people in South and Central America have used mulungu (Erythrina mulungu) for centuries to calm nerves, boost mood, and aid sleep. One of its active alkaloids, erythravine, may help reduce anxiety and protect brain function. Additionally, the flavonoids in mulungu are known antioxidants, supporting cardiovascular and brain health.
Bacopa
Also known as brahmi or water hyssop, Bacopa monnieri is a staple in Ayurvedic medicine for enhancing memory, reducing stress, and supporting cognitive function. Bacopa can help lower cortisol levels, the body’s primary stress hormone, and protect brain cells, thereby preventing brain aging.
Mucuna Pruriens
Mucuna, or velvet bean, contains L-dopa, a precursor to several neurotransmitters including dopamine. By supporting dopamine levels, Mucuna may improve brain function and memory, which contributes to its popularity as an anti-aging herb. Its antioxidant properties also protect neurons from damage by free radicals.
Rhodiola Rosea
This traditional medicinal herb contains salidroside and rosin, two compounds that support brain health. Salidroside acts as a potent antioxidant, while rosin reduces inflammation in neural cells, potentially protecting against neurotoxicity. Together, these compounds reduce fatigue, improve mood, and lower stress, enhancing mental performance and resilience.
Jujube
Known as “sour date,” Zizyphus jujuba or jujube supports mental health and promotes restful sleep. The saponins in jujube have sedative effects, helping to relax the mind and body, which is crucial for maintaining mental strength and energy levels.
Passionflower
This traditional sedative has long been used as a sleep aid. Passionflower also helps relieve anxiety, a common cause of sleep disturbances. By improving sleep quality, it enhances mental acuity and memory. Drinking passionflower tea can help healthy adults achieve more restful sleep.
Skullcap
Native to North America, skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) has a history of calming nerves, easing stress, lifting mood, and aiding sleep. Its mood-enhancing effects and antioxidant properties provide significant brain protection against inflammation.
Kava Kava
Originating from the South Pacific, kava kava (Piper methysticum) is used to relieve stress, anxiety, and promote better sleep. Kava contains kavalactones, which offer non-opiate and non-narcotic support for a good mood, performing as effectively as some pharmaceutical drugs.
Saffron
Saffron (Crocus sativus) is not just a culinary spice but also a traditional remedy for balanced mood, stress relief, and calming anxiety. Its effectiveness in lifting mood makes it a valuable herb for mental health.
Further Approaches to Brain Health
Beyond herbs, certain minerals also play a crucial role in maintaining brain health. Lithium and zinc are two such minerals that support memory, focus, and overall well-being.
Lithium Orotate
Lithium orotate supports a positive mood and helps the brain respond to stress. It promotes gray matter health and is highly bioavailable, easily passing through cell walls. This form of lithium enhances focus and provides a healthy stress response.
Zinc Orotate
Discovered by Dr. Hans Nieper, zinc orotate is easily assimilated by the body. Its neutrally charged form crosses cell membranes to support hormone production, balance metabolism, tissue growth, and nerve function.
Promoting Mental Health
For optimal mental health, rest, sleep, and exercise are foundational. They reduce fatigue and mental cloudiness, creating a strong base for mental well-being. Sometimes, the body needs extra help to restore balance and protect against environmental toxins. Whether choosing a single herb or a blend, natural supplements can support a sound mind and healthy mood. Products like Stress Relief offer an ideal mix of organic herbs and minerals, including several mentioned above, to promote mental health.
