15 Herbs To Increase Your Feelings Of Happiness (Got To Love #8)

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Western medicine draws a strange and unnatural line between our emotional state and a physical illness, but there is absolutely no line between body and mind. Unfortunately, taking care of our emotional and mental well-being is often the last thing on our list of priorities. Most people think that if they mention emotional or mental issues, they somehow are weak and “less” than other people.

So we go on with our lives, telling ourselves that what we feel (or don’t feel) is no big deal, or not important, or that we should “get over it.” When people can’t “get over it,” they turn to their doctor or psychiatrist, whose solution is usually chemical pharmaceutical medications. Often, the side effects of these drugs only make things worse.

You can improve your own feelings of happiness and well-being without chemical drugs. You can use herbs from Mother Nature to lift your spirits and keep your brain functioning properly. Putting forth the effort to find the herbs that work best for you so that you can lead the happiest life possible is more than worth the trouble. Making yourself happy and looking after your own well-being not only affects your quality of life, and but the lives of all those with whom you come in contact every day.

1. Brahmi

This is an Ayurvedic herb that has been used for centuries as a brain tonic and as a means of improving feelings of well-being. Brahmi (bacopa monnieri) improves intellect and can increase memory. In daily doses of 10 to 20 mg, brahmi reduces stress and relieves feelings of anxiety.

2. Chamomile

This is perhaps one of the most commonly used herbs for calming both mind and body. Chamomile tea is well-known for being the perfect relaxing tea before bed to help induce deep sleep. Just one cup of chamomile tea can help so much when it comes to easing stress and anxiety. Chamomile will also improve digestion, soothe the nervous system, improve the immune system — and ladies, it will also reduce those painful menstrual cramps.

3. Gotu Kola

This peripheral vasodilator that relaxes the nerves is known for calming anxiety attacks, depressive episodes, improving cognitive function, and helping people deal with stress. Gotu kola (centella asiatica) also has antispasmodic and antiseptic compounds.

4. Calamus Root

This little-known root improves concentration levels and memory by stimulating both mind and body. This is the perfect herb for helping you see things from a clearer perspective so that stressful problems can be resolved. Calamus root can calm the racing mind while helping improve motivation. Calamus root has antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-spasmodic, and anti-epileptic compounds that can even help those who suffer from seizures and epilepsy.

5. Valerian

Like chamomile, this herb has been used for centuries to calm the mind, relax the nervous system, and induce a deep, peaceful sleep. Valerian (valeriana officinalis) is generally consumed as a tea, but it is also sold in supplement form.

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