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RESTORATIVE NERVE SUPPORT ADAPTOGENIC HERBAL TEA

If you’ve read my previous post on herbal coffee, you’re already familiar with the basics of adaptogenic herbs. To recap, certain herbs and mushrooms, known as adaptogens, help balance the body, particularly supporting the adrenal glands. The adrenals can become overburdened and fatigued due to ongoing stressors such as family conflicts, work problems, financial difficulties, chronic pain, and other persistent issues.

When stress relief is elusive, the adrenals can become so depleted that they no longer produce the right hormones in the right amounts, leaving us unable to properly adapt to daily challenges. You’ve likely heard the saying, “stress will kill you.” While it may not be as immediate as a bullet or knife, chronic stress acts as a slow poison, wreaking havoc on both body and mind. It diminishes our ability to fight illness, increases inflammation, and in extreme cases, can even lead to anaphylaxis (which I’ve personally experienced).

While avoiding stress entirely is nearly impossible – it’s as certain as death and taxes – we can support our tired adrenals with the help of some herbal allies. That’s why I created this Nerve Restorative Adaptogenic Herbal Tea, designed to support my family and me through our daily lives.

In recent years, I’ve come to truly appreciate a good cup of herbal tea. Blending adaptogenic herbs with some of my favorite flavors has become another tool in my wellness routine. Herbal teas are a pleasant, safe, and gentle way to receive herbal support. My Nerve Restorative Adaptogenic Herbal Tea includes several herbs that you may not be familiar with, but rest assured that you can find them online (I’ve provided links to Mountain Rose Herbs in red below) or at a well-stocked health food store or apothecary.

Adaptogenic Herbal Tea Ingredients

Holy Basil, Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum)
This aromatic herb comes in three varieties, all of which can be used in this tea. However, if you can source the Krishna variety, it offers the most therapeutic benefits. Holy basil is known for its wide range of healthful properties, including its ability to lower and normalize stress hormones like cortisol, reduce inflammation, support the endocrine system, and enhance physical endurance. It is also uplifting to the spirit and is widely recognized for helping individuals process grief.

Schisandra Berries (Schisandra chinensis)
This flavorful herb is known for its ability to strengthen and normalize the body, helping to improve the body’s response to stress. For those who experience upset stomachs due to stress, schisandra can balance the pH, adjusting acidity levels as needed. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, schisandra berries are referred to as the “five-flavor berry” because of their complex flavor profile, which combines sweet, tart, bitter, salty, and acrid notes – creating a pleasantly powerful and unique taste.

Ashwagandha Root (Withania somnifera)
Regarded as a top herb for combating adrenal fatigue, ashwagandha helps protect both the mind and body from stress overload. It works to reverse disruptions in blood sugar, metabolism, and hormones like cortisol. Known as a warrior herb, ashwagandha plays a powerful role in the fight against stress.

Shatavari Root (Asparagus racemosus)
Known as the “queen of herbs,” shatavari promotes overall well-being and strengthens the immune system. It is especially beneficial for women’s health, supporting hormonal balance and reproductive health.

Rhodiola Root (Rhodiola rosea)
This remarkable herb enhances both mental and physical performance, helping to improve focus, endurance, and resilience to stress.

Rhodiola Root (Rhodiola rosea)
This powerful herb boosts both mental and physical performance, improving focus, stamina, and the body’s resilience to stress. It supports overall vitality and enhances cognitive function.

Aromatic Herb

I like to add an aromatic herb like peppermint or lemon balm to give the tea a bright, refreshing flavor, though this step is completely optional.

I encourage you to explore and experiment with adaptogenic herbs. While herbal teas are a safe and gentle way to enjoy the benefits of these herbs, it’s important to consult a qualified healthcare provider, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or 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 health conditions. However, I can share the research and personal experience I’ve gained. Please consult your general practitioner for medical concerns.

Nerve Restorative Adaptogenic Herbal 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 all herbs together and store in an airtight container in a cool location, away from direct light.
  • To prepare the tea, place a tablespoon of the loose herb mixture into a muslin tea bag or mesh tea ball.
  • Bring 8-10 oz of water to a boil, then pour it over the herbs.
  • Steep for 5-7 minutes. For a stronger infusion, steep for 15-20 minutes.

    CONCLUSION

    This Nerve Restorative Adaptogenic Herbal Tea is a powerful blend designed to support your body’s resilience to stress and promote overall well-being. By incorporating these adaptogenic herbs, you’re providing your adrenals, immune system, and mental health with natural support to better navigate the challenges of daily life. As you experiment with this tea and other herbal remedies, always remember to consult a healthcare provider, especially if you have specific health concerns. Enjoy the journey of discovering the benefits of these ancient herbs, and embrace the soothing, restorative effects of this tea in your wellness routine.

    DIY CHAMOMILE AND COCONUT OIL BODY BALM

    Chamomile is one of my favorite herbs to incorporate into DIY beauty products. Its use in skincare dates back to ancient civilizations, including Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Even today, chamomile remains a popular choice for its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties. In this balm recipe, we infuse coconut oil with chamomile over several hours to create a nourishing and skin-loving blend.

    “Olive oil is blended with coconut oil to add extra softness, while yellow beeswax provides structure and ensures the balm stays solid in warmer temperatures. If you live in a particularly hot climate, consider adding more beeswax to raise the melting point. Prefer a softer balm? Simply reduce the amount of beeswax.

    To test the balm’s consistency before pouring it into containers, try the frozen spoon trick—it’s a quick and effective way to check the texture when cooled. In our tests, this balm begins to melt at around 100°F.

    Want even more ways to incorporate chamomile into your skincare routine? Explore the recipes below!”

    Top Row: Chamomile Oat Melt & Pour Bars, Lavender & Chamomile Goat Milk Bath Tea
    Bottom Row: Soothing Eye Tea, Yellow Chamomile Cold Process Soap

    What You’ll Need:
    3 Candle Tins
    12 oz. Coconut Oil (10 oz. infused coconut oil)
    0.5 oz. Chamomile Herb
    2 oz. Olive Oil
    1 oz. Yellow Beeswax

    STEP 1: To begin, infuse the coconut oil with chamomile. In a heat-safe container, add 12 ounces of coconut oil and heat it in the microwave until it reaches approximately 150°F. You’ll only need 10 ounces of infused coconut oil for this recipe, but some oil will be absorbed or lost during the straining process. Be cautious when handling the hot container. Add the chamomile herb to the oil and let it steep for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight, to allow the beneficial properties of the chamomile to infuse fully. If the coconut oil solidifies as it cools, simply reheat it in the microwave to maintain a liquid state. Alternatively, you can use a crockpot to keep the oil at a consistent temperature during the infusion process.

    STEP 2: After the infusion process, strain the coconut oil to remove the chamomile herb. Use a fine mesh strainer lined with a paper towel to ensure all small pieces are filtered out. You may need to repeat this step for thorough straining. Once strained, weigh the remaining oil. Some coconut oil will be absorbed by the chamomile or lost during the straining process, which is why extra oil was infused. For this recipe, you need 10 ounces of infused coconut oil. If you have less than that, supplement with un-infused coconut oil until you reach the required amount.

    STEP 3: Combine the beeswax and olive oil with the infused coconut oil in a heat-safe container. Heat the mixture in the microwave using 30-60 second bursts, stirring between intervals, until the beeswax is fully melted. Beeswax has a high melting point, so handle the container with caution—it will become very hot. Avoid using a glass container with excessive empty space, as the heat can cause it to crack or even explode. Once the beeswax is melted, carefully remove the container from the microwave, ensuring safe handling of the hot mixture.

    STEP 4: Stir the melted mixture thoroughly to combine all the ingredients, then pour it into the candle tins. Let the balm cool and harden completely, which may take several hours. Once set, you can use the balm by rubbing your fingers on the surface to warm and slightly melt it, then apply it to your skin wherever needed.

    CONCLUSION

    This DIY Chamomile & Coconut Oil Body Balm is a simple, soothing, and natural way to nourish your skin. Infused with chamomile’s anti-inflammatory properties and combined with the moisturizing benefits of coconut oil, olive oil, and beeswax, this balm provides a perfect balance of softness and firmness. Whether you’re battling dry skin or just need a gentle, all-natural remedy, this balm is an easy and effective solution. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a skin-loving product that’s both practical and luxurious. Enjoy the calming benefits of chamomile in your skincare routine!