29 Nov 5 Herbs That Benefit Your Mental Health

Mental health is a subject which has become increasingly focused on and de-stigmatised over generations – but for many of us it is still a triggering and somewhat unfamiliar concept.

We are incredible creatures – we can feel, connect, remember and learn from experience. However, this incredible gift also makes us somewhat vulnerable – we learn and form our basis of understanding of life from lived and perceived experiences. This means that some of what moulds us are challenging situations, which are bound to leave their mark.

Taking into account the infancy of the science of psychology and understanding the conscious and unconscious minds – we have made some incredible leaps and bounds when it comes to understanding mental health and the infinite ways in which we can facilitate healing within it.

When one ventures into the world of healing, an integrated and holistic perspective is needed; taking herbal and fungi medicinals is a fantastic way to reach deep introspection and self-exploration.

Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus)

Lion’s mane is a fascinating fungi with incredible capabilities as a nootropic medicine. This mushroom can assist with the Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), it has been shown that with an increase in the NGF, there may be opportunities for healing from PTSD, depression, trauma, Alzheimer’s and other neuro-based dis-eases.Apart from aiding with NGF, it has also shown that it can help with cognitive function, anxiety, depression and tiredness.

Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera)

This incredible root is held in high esteem as one of nature’s best allies regarding stress, depression and anxiety. When taken daily, this adaptogen significantly lowers cortisol levels which helps reduce the symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression.

St johns Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

This beautiful golden flower has been the topic of scientific investigation for many years. This potent herbal is used in remedies for anxiety, sleep disorders and depression. It has also been used to aid in managing hormonal imbalances present in PMS and menopause as well as managing SAD.

Mucuna (Mucuna pruriens)

This incredible bean is one of the most impactful herbal antidepressants one can utilise as a medicine. It is rich in amino acid L-Dopa, the pre-cursor to dopamine, and a host of other neurochemicals such as epinephrine, serotonin, norepinephrine, 5-MeO-DMT and 5-HTP, which all boost the activity of neurotransmitters and their mobility. 

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

Which a rich history of over 200 years, Skullcap is used for treating anxiety, nervous tension, convulsions and is a mild relaxant – it is additionally a nervine tonic, showing incredible effects in balancing and regulating the entire nervous system. Studies have shown that along with being a significant antioxidant Skullcap also aids in being neuro-protective against neurological dis-ease and disorders such as Parkinson’s, depression and other ailments.

Some honourable mentions:

Reishi, Gotu Kola, Rosemary, Chamomile, Brahmi, Ginkgo, Passionflower, Sceletium, Cacao Powder, Mucana, Ashwagangha Tincture, Plant Milk

When it comes to forming a relationship with herbal allies for mental health, it is important to remember that there is no one fix-all –  ensure that you consult a doctor if you are currently on any chronic medications