This Nerve Restorative Adaptogenic Herbal Tea is a blend of herbs that promotes balance of the mind, body and spirit to assist one with response to stress.
If you read my previous post on herbal coffee, you already have a “primer” on adaptogenic herbs. To summarize, certain herbs and mushrooms (called adaptogens) serve to balance body, specifically the adrenal glands. Adrenals can become fatigued from ongoing stressors like family quarrels, work issues, financial hardships, chronic pain and other continuing problems.
When relief doesn’t come, eventually the adrenals get so depleted that they no longer issue the right hormonal supports in the proper amounts that we need to adapt to everyday living. You know that phrase “stress will kill you”? While it might not do the damage of a bullet or a knife, it is a slow poison that wreaks havoc on your body and mind and lowers you ability to fight disease, increases inflammation and, in severe cases, can send a person into anaphylaxis (as I personally have experienced).
Now, most of us cannot avoid stress – it as sure as death and taxes – but we can support our tired adrenals with a few herbal allies. I created this Nerve Restorative Adaptogenic Herbal Tea to aid me and my family through our daily lives.
In recent years I have come to whole heartedly enjoy a good cup of herbal tea. Blending up a few adaptogenic herbs along with some of my favorite flavors gives me another tool in my wellness shed. Teas are a pleasant, safe and mild way to receive your herbal support. My Nerve Restorative Adaptogenic Herbal Tea contains several herbs that you may never have heard of – however rest assured that you can find these online (I have provided links to Mountain Rose Herbs in red below) or in a well stocked health food store or apothecary.
Adaptogenic Herbal Tea Ingredients
Holy Basil, Tulsi (Ocinum sanctum)
This aromatic herb comes in three varieties – all of which would be acceptable for this tea, but if you can source yourself the Krishna variety it has the most therapeutic benefits. In addition to providing one with a host of healthful benefits, holy basil lowers and normalizes stress hormones like cortisol, moderates inflammation, aids the endocrine system and increases physical endurance. It is also uplifting to the spirit and is known to help one process through grief.
Schisandra Berries (Schisandra chinensis)
This flavorful herb strengthens and normalizes the body and helps one to more effectively deal with stress. For those deal with upset stomachs as a result of their stress, schisandra balances the pH, either helping to increase or decrease acidity as needed. Schisandra berries are known as the “five flavor berry” in Traditional Chinese Medicine, as they possess a deeply complex flavor that hints at sweet, tart, bitter, salty and acrid all at once – a pleasantly powerful combination!
Ashwagandha Root (Withania somnifera)
Considered a premier herb for treating adrenal fatigue, ashwagandha protects the mind and body from stress overload, reversing changes to blood sugar, metabolism and hormones like cortisol. This is a warrior herb in the battle with stress.
Shatavari Root (Asparagus racemosus)
This “queen of herbs” promotes overall well being, boosts the immune system and has especially great benefits in the women’s health arena.
Rhodiola Root (Rhodiola rosea)
This wonderful herbs enhances all areas of mental and physical performance.
Oatstraw (Avena sativa)
Oatstraw is a restorative and energy producing tonic for the nerves.
Aromatic Herb
I like to add an aromatic herb like peppermint or lemon balm to lend so bright flavor. This is completely optional.
I encourage you to research and experiment with adaptogenic herbs. Although teas are very safe way to reap the benefits of these herbs, you should seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, or are taking prescription medications.
Disclosure statement: I am a mother, a budding wildcrafter, and a student beginning my studies in herbalism and aromatherapy. I am not a medical doctor or a naturopath and cannot diagnose or treat your afflictions. I can however, provide you with the research and experience that I have. Please contact your general practitioner for health issues.
Nerve Restorative Adaptogenic Herbal Tea Recipe
Adaptogenic Tea Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ounces Holy Basil
- 2 ounces Schisandra Berries dried
- 1 ounce Ashwagandha Root
- 1 ounce Shatavari Root
- 1 ounce Rhodiola Root
- 1 ounce Oatstraw
- 1 ounce Aromatic herb, such as peppermint or lemon balm optional
Instructions
- Mix herbs together and store in an airtight container in a cool location out of direct light.
- To prepare tea, place a tablespoon of loose herbs in a muslin tea bag or mesh tea ball.
- Bring 8-10oz of water to a boil, then pour over herbs. Steep for 5-7 minutes, For a stronger infusion steep for 15-20 minutes.
References
Adaptogens in Medical Herbalism, Donald R. Yance, Healing Arts Press, 2013
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