This gorgeous blend is a treat for the senses and calming to the nervous system. Recipe below.

We start with passionflower – nervine, sedative, antispasmodic, and relaxant. It helps relieve chronic muscle tension especially for those individuals with an overdeveloped sense of discipline and subsequent “armoring” of the body. No known contraindications. Use caution if using with other sedatives.

Holy basil – known most as an adaptogen or an herb that helps the body handle stress, holy basil is anti-depressant and carminative, which means it helps warm a distressed digestive system. Holy Basil has a hypotensive or blood pressure lowering effect and helps relieve the HPA axis (more on this in another post, but HPA stands for hypothalamus, pituitary, adrenal), which controls the body’s response to stress. No known contraindications.

Skullcap – is also a versatile nervine, which helps one calm a busy mind or overthinking due to anxiety. Mental fatigue and nervous exhaustion are no match for this little herb. It also is great for insomnia and migraines. No known contraindications. Use caution using with other sedatives.

Damiana – a nervine most known for being an herb of passion and desire, it also acts as a restorative and anti-depressant. Use caution if taking anti-diabetic medications.

Finally, lavender, one of the world’s most versatile herbs has a cooling effect on the nervous system, is anti-depressant and relieves tension, stress and insomnia. No known contraindications.

Mix 2 parts passionflower, 1 part holy basil, 1 part skullcap, 1 part damiana, 1 part lavender in a large bowl. Store in an airtight container such as a large ball jar. Steep 1 teaspoon per cup boiling water for 15-20 minutes covered. Enjoy especially at night.