7 Herbs to Help Mama Manage Stress 

We all know how overwhelming life can get, especially when we’re busy mothers juggling everything on our plates. We all face stress from time to time, and while it’s impossible to avoid it completely, there are natural ways to help manage it. Stress-reducing herbs can be a great addition to your daily routine, offering support when you need it most! Here are seven herbs to consider, along with how to use them. 

1. Ashwagandha
   Ashwagandha is a calming herb that gently helps the body manage stress. It’s great if you are feeling drained or overwhelmed because it supports your body’s ability to deal with stress in a more balanced way- instead of just masking it! If you’ve been feeling fatigued or your energy is running low, ashwagandha might be helpful. It can be found in capsules or powder, and you can add the powder to smoothies or teas for a gentle pick-up.
   When to use it: If you’re feeling exhausted and stressed, especially when you need to recharge and calm down.
   Pregnancy/ breastfeeding: Herbalist Richard Whelan has an extremely helpful index on his website explaining herbs’ safety. He says that Ashwagandha “is extremely safe to use in high or frequent doses if necessary and may be taken by the young or old, whilst pregnant or during breastfeeding with confidence.” (S) 

1. Astragalus
   Astragalus is an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adjust to physical, mental, or emotional stress. It’s gentle and works best when taken regularly to help your body adapt to the demands of daily life. It’s available in tinctures or capsules and can also be added to tea blends or taken in a capsule form when you’re feeling especially overwhelmed.
   When to use: If you’re dealing with a lot of stress and need ongoing support for your body to adapt and balance. Adaptogens work best when taken consistently over a period of time.
   Pregnancy/ breastfeeding: Herbalist Richard Whelan says, “Astragalus is an extremely safe herb, able to be taken in high doses without fear of adverse reactions and entirely suitable for young and old as well as in pregnancy or breastfeeding.” (S)  

1. St. John’s Wort
   St. John’s wort is a well-known herb for supporting mood balance. It helps maintain healthy levels of serotonin and other brain chemicals that play a role in how we feel. While it’s often used for mood support, it’s also a great option if you’re dealing with stress and just need a little emotional support. You can find it in teas, tinctures, or capsules.
   When to use it: If you’re feeling a little down or out of balance emotionally- St John’s wort can provide a gentle boost. 
   Pregnancy/ breastfeeding: Although much has been said about St. John’s wort and its negative effects on medications, according to herbalist Richard Whelan, “In actual fact, St John’s is a very safe herb for the most part and, used by itself, the only real concern can be that high doses can increase “photosensitivity.” (S) 

1. Linden
   Linden flowers have been used for years to promote relaxation, and it’s an excellent herb for when you’re feeling particularly anxious or need a little help winding down after a busy day. Linden is also gentle enough for kids, so it can be an excellent herb for the whole family. It’s best enjoyed as a tea; you can sip on it quietly or before bed.
   When to use it: Linden can help you calm down, especially after a hectic day or if you’re feeling a little more on edge than usual.
   Pregnancy/ breastfeeding: Linden is considered safe for both pregnancy and breastfeeding, making it a perfect option for mamas looking for a calming herb. 

1. Lemon Balm
   Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, is known for its calming properties. It’s a great choice when you’re feeling frazzled and need something soothing to bring you back to center. You can drink lemon balm as a tea on its own, or its often combined with other calming herbs like chamomile or valerian for a deeper sense of relaxation.
   When to use it: If you’re feeling stressed and need extra calm and comfort in your day. It’s perfect for a mama who needs a moment of peace.
   Pregnancy/ breastfeeding: Lemon balm is a very safe herb and perfect for anyone who’s pregnant or breastfeeding! 

1. Skullcap
   Skullcap is a mild relaxant, ideal for dealing with nervous tension or just needing to unwind. It’s often used to help with nervousness or when you’re feeling on edge. It’s available in tinctures or teas, and it’s especially helpful if you tend to feel a bit wired or restless when you’re trying to relax.
   When to use it: If you’re feeling really tense and need to wind down before bed or even just after a stressful situation during the day.
   Pregnancy/ breastfeeding: “Skullcap is very safe to use, even in high doses, for the young and old and in pregnancy and breastfeeding.” (S) 

1. Kava
   Kava is well known for its relaxing and mood-boosting qualities. If you need to take the edge off and feel a little more at ease, kava can help. It’s available in tinctures, capsules, or as a tea, and it’s especially helpful when you’re feeling particularly anxious or stressed. But be mindful of the dose and use it in moderation.
   When to use it: When you’re feeling particularly tense and need a quick way to unwind. It’s best used when you want to settle your mind and body before bed or after a stressful day.
   Pregnancy/ breastfeeding: Kava is best avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it can have sedative effects and may interact with medications. 

A few tips for using herbs:
– Start slow: When trying any new herb, especially if you’re new to herbal remedies, start with a small amount to see how your body responds.
– Use them mindfully: Herbs are wonderful tools, but they work best when used alongside other stress-management practices like deep breathing, a warm bath or a nice walk in nature!
– Consult a professional: If you have a local herbalist, you can try chatting with them to figure out which herbs will be best for your journey. 

Maybe tea isn’t for you, or you’d like more ways to get these herbs into your daily routine…try these wonderful products that contain these herbs!:
Cocoa Calm – contains ashwagandha
Master Tonic – contains ashwagandha
Anxiety Relief – contains ashwagandha and St. John’s wort
Immunity Soup – contains astragalus
Immune-Biotic – contains astragalus
Pain Relief Rub – contains St. John’s wort
Relax and Unwind Tea – contains lemon balm
Sleepy Time – contains skullcap 

Mamas, life can get busy, but these herbs can offer support in a natural way when you need it most. Whether it’s a cup of calming tea, a tincture. Or just a few deep breaths with some herbal help, take time for yourself!! You deserve it! You got this!