I had a restless night. Seemed to wake up every hour, with too much on my mind. It has been 3 months since my husband passed away and I think the grief and reality is sinking into my brain. I can’t do anything about the circumstances that are keeping me awake, but I can take some herbs to help me process it all and relax more. Here are a few that I am considering and they might help you too.

Valerian – Seen in the photo above, helps to relieve emotional stress, nervous tension, and restlessness. It is an effective sedative (yet not addictive), mild anodyne (pain reliever), nerve restorative, and is antispasmodic. In large doses it may create excitability. Should not be used in conjunction with prescription sleep-aids or anxiolytics. 

Passionflower – for general restlessness, useful for insomnia and disturbed sleep patterns, sedative, tranquilizing, analgesic (pain killing), and antispasmodic. As a nervine herb, the longer you take it, the better your nerves are able to handle things. It is excellent for shutting down those anxious thoughts that go around and around in your head and just won’t stop. NOT recommended during pregnancy.

Ashwagandha – Known as an adaptogenic herb, it has the special ability to be both energizing and calming at the same time. It reduces cortisol levels and inflammation, balances stress hormones, calms nerves, sharpens your focus and concentration, increases both libido and stamina, and it is a powerful antioxidant.

Full-spectrum hemp oil – helps to balance the body and mind. Endocannibinoid receptors are found throughout the body, but especially in the brain and gut, areas where hemp may be particularly helpful. It is calming and helps to relieve stress and pain.

Serenity Essential Oil Blend by doTerra – includes Lavender, Cedarwood, Ho Wood, Ylang Ylang, Marjoram, Roman Chamomile, Vetiver, Vanilla, and Sandalwood. This blend is available as an oil for the diffuser or as softgels to take internally. It has a powerful calming effect on the mind and heart. Helpful to relinquish feelings of stress, anxiousness, and being overwhelmed. It can help quiet an overactive mind, releasing feelings of worry, and give you the ability to unwind. Serenity brings a sense of tranquility that allows space for personal reflection, peace, and healing.

Tonight, I plan to choose two or three of these and put them to good use. I am ready for a good night’s sleep. How about you?