The Plant Allies of the Nervous System
Nervines, adaptogens, sedatives, restoratives, and analgesics
Milky Oat (Avena sativa): If I could only stock a handful of herbs in my apothecary, Milky Oat would be at the top of my list. Milky Oat is my favorite nervous system herb and as stress is an underlying factor for most of the illnesses and symptoms that I see in my practice, and gets in the way of folks being able to sit with and explore their experiences, it is a vital and beloved plant ally of mine. Milky Oat is a nervous system trophorestorative making it an ideal plant ally to work with for most any vagus nerve needs.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): An herb of joy, Lemon Balm has long been prized in traditional western herbalism as a life-restoring ally. I like to think of Lemon Balm as an herb of overextension, whether we have pushed past our boundaries through overwork, overstimulation, hyperactivity or stress, Lemon Balm helps us to draw our energy back in and center ourselves. Indications for Lemon Balm include chronic stress, social anxiety, big life transitions, and desiring a need for connection but struggling to show up in community spaces.
Rose (Rosa spp.): Rose is an ancient, ancestral plant ally, having watched us evolve as a species, so what better an ally to turn to when tending the central pathways of communication and experience of our bodies. In addition to being an excellent overall vagus nerve tonic, Rose is indicated for any sort of ancestral work, including exploring and healing intergenerational trauma, and setting boundaries.
Flower & Gem Essences: All the plants already listed can be used as flower essences and because all flower essences work on the emotional body, they are all appropriate for the nervous system. That said, some of my favorite essences for the nervous system include Self Heal (Prunella vulgaris), Blue Violet (Viola odorata), Rescue Remedy, Aspen (Populus tremula), Mimulus (Mimulus guttatus), Amethyst, Rose Quartz, Moonstone.
Additional nervous system herbs: Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Lavender (Lavandula spp.), Wood Betony (Betonica officinalis), Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata), Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora), California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica), Chamomile (Matricaria recutita), and Catnip (Nepeta cataria).
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Remediations: For all plant ally work, especially if you are getting to know a plant for the first time or reconnecting with their energy, the Wild Tongue Plant Ally Spread can be a helpful tool.
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