What Herbs Can Strengthen The Nervous System?
The nervous system is responsible for how we carry out everyday activities. That includes breathing, moving, seeing and thinking, among countless other abilities. By keeping our bodies healthy, active and hydrated, we can reduce the risk of our nervous system deteriorating.
But, what happens if that’s not enough?
The nervous system can be split into two (2) parts: The central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.
The brain and spinal cord make up the central, while the peripheral includes all the nerves that branch off from the spinal cord to the rest of the body. While these parts can function on their own, it’s important for us to improve them.
Here are a few of the herbal remedies that can strengthen the nervous system:
- Valerian Root (Valeriana alliariifolia)
- Motherwort (Leonuri herba)
- Lemon Balm (Melissae folium)
Common Nervous System Problems
The nervous system transmits signals from the brain to the entire body. If the brain, spinal cord or nerves are damaged, that can significantly affect the other organs, systems and functions in your body.
Here are some common disorders that may affect the nervous system:
- Vascular disorders, for eg: stroke and subdural hemorrhage.
- Structural disorders, for eg: brain / spinal cord tumors and Bell’s palsy.
- Functional disorders, for eg: epilepsy and dizziness.
- Degeneration, for eg: Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis
- Infections, for eg: polio and meningitis.
The central nervous system is also prone to sleep disorders when the brain and spinal cord are affected. These include: abnormal movements during sleep, difficulty falling asleep, trouble maintaining sleep and sleeping too much.
Some people go their entire lives without experiencing severe nervous system damage like those mentioned above. However, that doesn’t completely limit the chance of it happening.
The risk for some vascular disorders, for example, are becoming increasingly more common. Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke. Even worse, every 3 and a half minutes, someone will die of a stroke.
Similarly, degenerative issues are also on the rise. Roughly 1 in 9 people aged 65 and older has Alzheimer’s. In 2023, the Alzheimer’s Association confirmed that this figure affects an estimated 6.7 million Americans alone.
Below are the most common signs and symptoms of some disorders. If you have experienced damage to your nervous system, you may experience:
- Tremors;
- Seizures;
- Memory loss;
- Slurred speech;
- Lack of coordination;
- Loss of sight or double vision;
- Sudden or persistent headache;
- Tingling feeling or no feeling at all; and
- Loss of muscle strength or unexplained weakness.
While herbs cannot prevent these symptoms, they can be treated and reduced with the aid of certain plants. Let’s start off with the sedative plant, Valerian.
Photo of Valerian Root herbal blend - Biokoma Herbs
How Valerian Root Helps The Nervous System
The roots of the valerian plant are popular in the herbal medicine space, and for good reason!
Reportedly, the roots are believed to provide relief to stress, tension and emotional distress. Found in parts of Europe and Asia, valerian root (valeriana officinalis) has been used as a therapeutic remedy for centuries.
One of the common symptoms associated with nervous system disorders is sleep troubles.
Though sleep disorders are often treated with changes in diet and environment, your healthcare provider may recommend or prescribe products known as ‘sedatives’. A sedative is any substance intended to calm someone down, lull them to sleep or relieve their anxiety.
Valerian, too, is considered a sedative!
Its potency is so widely recognized that many medicine manufacturers use valerian as an ingredient when producing sleeping aids and mild sedatives. Because of these soothing effects, valerian promotes calmness and relieves tension.
Some sources report that valerian is effective against epileptic seizures, which is another common nervous system disorder.
Photo of Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) Organic Dried Root - Biokoma Herbs
Other benefits of using valerian root for sleep include:
- Improves sleep;
- Soothes menstrual pains;
- Relieves tension-type headaches; and
- Relieves menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes.
Valerian root is a relatively safe herb to use. Its reported side effects are typically very mild, such as: drowsiness, headaches, upset stomach and vivid dreams.
You can reap all the benefits that come with herbal medicines like this one by shopping online: Biokoma’s very own is made of 100% dried, organic valerian root.
Simply boil water for about 5 minutes, then add one teaspoon of the root. Let sit for about 10-15 minutes before straining. You can drink our exclusive herbal tea 1-2 times per day -- Enjoy!
Similar to valerian root, this next herb provides great relief for emotional distress.
Photo of Motherwort herbal blend - Biokoma Herbs
How Motherwort Helps The Nervous System
Motherwort is known by many names worldwide: Throw-wort, lion's ear, lion's tail and, scientifically, as Leonarus Cardiaca. Regardless of what you call this herb, its reputation precedes it!
Better known for its effects on women’s health, motherwort has traditionally been used to treat menstrual pains, menopause symptoms and infertility. However, it has soothing effects for some nervous system disorders, too!
Because nerves transmit signals across the body, it is important for us to prioritize nervous system health. If left unchecked, these nerves can pose further damage to the rest of the body.
Fortunately, motherwort is considered a ‘nervine’: That is, a herb that specifically supports the nervous system and soothes the nerve tissues.
Here are just a few ways that motherwort effectively does that:
- Decreases blood pressure and heart rate from anxiety
- Promote better heart health associated with stress
- Manages emotional symptoms of menstruation
- Reduces spasms and twitches caused by nerves
Clinical trials have concluded that the iridoids present in motherwort effectively reduced anxiety and stabilized emotions, proving that motherwort is an antianxiety herbal remedy.
Like we mentioned before, motherwort helps our bodies manage and minimize the emotional symptoms of a woman’s menstrual cycle. These symptoms include: mood swings, irritability, anger and anxiety.
Photo of Motherwort (Leonuri Herba) Organic Dried Herb - Biokoma Herbs
One study from 2011 confirmed that motherwort treatments significantly improved symptoms of high blood pressure that accompanied anxiety, depression and some sleep disorders.
Motherwort is a strong sedative which means that its side effects may also be just as strong.
Those who are interested in using motherwort should be mindful of stomach aches, uterine bleeding and diarrhea -- All of which have been associated with excess motherwort usage.
Pregnant women should not consume motherwort due to the possibility of uterine bleeding. There aren’t enough studies in this area to show the effects of motherwort on nursing mothers, but we highly recommend steering clear from this herb if you are breastfeeding.
Motherwort may also worsen the potency of blood-thinning or heart rate medication.
If this nervine herbal remedy is on your radar, look no further than Biokoma’s inventory: Our Motherwort Organic Dried Herb is made entirely out of the sought-after Leonarus Cardiaca plant.
Once you’ve received your very own pouch, pour 1-2 teaspoons of the motherwort into a teacup. Pour hot water over the herb and brew while covered for 10-15 minutes. When you’re ready to enjoy, strain beforehand and drink!
Photo of Lemon Balm herbal blend - Biokoma Herbs
How Lemon Balm Helps The Nervous System
Likely the best tasting herb featured in this post, lemon balm (or Melissa officinalis) is a member of the mint family. The leaves are scented with a blend of lemon and mint, and the taste is just as great!
Similar to motherwort, lemon balm is also considered to be a nervine.
Since the Middle Ages, this herb has been used to reduce stress and promote sleep, along with other benefits for the body. Those who suffer from nervousness and anxiety may benefit the most from using lemon balm.
But, it is also great for cognitive health: That is, health associated with speech, memory, mental focus and alertness.
Photo of Lemon Balm (Melissae folium) Dried Leaves - Biokoma Herbs
There have been studies confirming that lemon balm has some effect against Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative disease that affects the brain. Those who suffer from this disease are most likely to experience memory decline. It is the leading cause of dementia.
Those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease have reportedly had symptoms of mild cognitive impairment reduced after consuming lemon balm. A study published in 2019 showed that patients who took lemon balm had reduced symptoms of agitation and stress - two of the reported symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
This study is only one of the few studies conducted in this area. That makes lemon balm an all-natural treatment option!
Another study confirmed that lemon balm treatments improved mood and cognitive performance when added to certain foods. Mood swings are a common symptom of nervous system damage. So, these behavioral effects are just another upside to using lemon balm!
Apart from reduced AD symptoms, here are other reported benefits of lemon balm:
- Eases bloating and gas;
- Induces calmness and ease;
- Suppresses insulin resistance; and
- Increases memory, cognitive function and alertness.
With all those benefits, there are a few effects to be on the lookout for. Some common (but mild) side effects of lemon balm include: increased appetite, nausea, dizziness, and wheezing.
Persons with diabetes should use caution when taking this alongside their medication, as lemon balm has been proven to lower blood sugar levels. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take lemon balm.
If you are taking thyroid medications or sedatives, it is recommended that you consult your doctor before adding lemon balm to your diet.
Considering that this is the most pleasant tasting herb on this list, you might be interested in trying lemon balm yourself: Our Lemon Balm (Melissae Folium) Organic Dried Leaves features no preservatives, no fillers and no artificial ingredients. For pure lemon balm leaves, visit this link.
Pour boiling water onto 1 teaspoon of lemon balm. Let brew for 8-10 minutes before straining. You can enjoy this herbal tea up to 4 times per day!
Can These Herbs Be Taken Together?
Yes! You can combine Valerian Root, Motherwort and Lemon Balm together: Introducing our For The Nervous Organic Blend.
These herbs are amazing on their own, but you’re able to reap the benefits of all three!
Photo of For The Nervous Organic Blend - Biokoma Herbs
In Summary
All three herbs play the same role: Strengthening your nervous system.
Valerian Root is one of the safest sleep remedies found in nature. It is widely recognized for its sedative effects: Meaning, it can be used to ease anxiety, relieve tension and promote calmness. Studies have highlighted Valerian Root’s effectiveness against insomnia and epileptic seizures.
Recognized widely as a nervine, Motherwort specifically soothes the nerves. By targeting the nervous system, this herb helps with maintaining regulating mental distress caused by anxiety, depression and some sleep disorders. Motherwort also doubles as a sedative!
Lemon Balm focuses on cognitive health. It can also minimize the damage caused by degenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s Disease. Similar to Motherwort and Valerian Root, Lemon Balm also improves mood, cognitive function and sharpness.
While these herbs are great on their own, they can all be taken together: The For The Nervous Organic Blend is a combination of valerian root, motherwort and lemon balm to soothe (and strengthen) your nervous system.
On its own, the nervous system is capable of protecting itself. However, there are countless disorders and symptoms that may plague your brain, spinal cord and all the nerves associated with that. Using herbal medicine is one of the ways you can naturally provide this system with support.
FDA DISCLAIMER
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. No known precautions. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
References:
- https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/neuro/conditioninfo/parts#:~:text=The%20nervous%20system%20transmits%20signals,see%2C%20think%2C%20and%20more.&text=The%20basic%20unit%20of%20the,a%20nerve%20cell%2C%20or%20neuron
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/overview-of-nervous-system-disorders
- https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures#:~:text=More%20than%206%20million%20Americans%20of%20all%20ages%20have%20Alzheimer's,older%20(10.7%25)%20has%20Alzheimer's
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874120331810#:~:text=Valerian%20species%20have%20been%20used,drug%20(Eadie%2C%202004)
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7911030/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/motherwort
- https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/lemon-balm#:~:text=Lemon%20balm%20(Melissa%20officinalis)%2C,%2C%20as%20well%20as%20colic
- https://www.apjtb.org/article.asp?issn=2221-1691;year=2019;volume=9;issue=2;spage=47;epage=52;aulast=Mahboubi#top
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4245564/
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.3292
