Apothecary - My Own Best Remedy

Every generation has had its stresses, and fortunately for us we are in a time where there has been so much recognition of the maladies and stresses that plague us in this human experience. That paired with the ability to find limitless knowledge on our phones and computers has allowed us the opportunity to find community and know that we aren’t alone. Not only are we not only are we not alone, people who are stressed or suffer from anxiety are the norm and not the exception.

You may or you may have not ever heard of kava. The kava plant, indigenous to the Pacific Islands, has been used for hundreds of years both in recreation and ceremony. The root of the kava plant is known to bring feelings of happiness, relaxation, promote sleep, and calmness. It can be taken as a powder, tea, capsule, tablet, or tincture.

As with nearly everything these days it is not without risk. Kava can cause liver damage, liver toxicity- as well as dangerous interactions with alcohol, anti-depressants, Parkinson’s medications, medications in general, and other substances. As always do your research. Speak with your healthcare provider before adding(or removing) anything to your wellness care.

Who among us hasn’t found themselves unable to fall asleep or experienced anxiety?

Valerian is a herb with roots that contain properties said to help aid a variety of nervous ailments including insomnia, anxiety, nervous tension, and even possibly high blood pressure and muscle cramps. From Arabian physicians to Ancient Greek herbalists to the modern day woo woo hippie, Valerian root has long been hyped as a go-to alternative to over the counter and prescription sleep aids.

Valerian can be found in a variety of forms from tincture, powder, capsule, or tea which you can find loose leaf or prepackaged. Be warned though that should you choose to go the loose leaf tea route Valerian root has a very “distinct” smell to it. The Ancient Greeks called it phu and fun fact; phu is the foundation for our modern “pee-yew”. With that being said, we all know scent and taste go hand in hand so you may want to add some other herbs in your steep.

Chamomile is a great partner for Valerian root. Not only due to its lovely floral notes, but Chamomile has also been touted to promote relaxation. Other complimentary herbs you might want to add are lemon balm, lemon grass, lavender, hibiscus, passion flower, rose petal, and of course honey and lemon juice are also tea lovers favorites for flavor.

For a simple Valerian root tea base recipe:

Boil 1 cup of water
Add 1 tablespoon of Valerian root into your tea infuser
Steep for 5-10 minutes in your favorite mug

You can use this base recipe, or, play around with different complimentary herbs that will dazzle your palette and might just get you to dreaming on your pillow. Wether it’s the holidays or every day stresses, Valerian root might just be the stinky best friend, or bed fellow, you have been looking for.

As always this is not medical advice and you should always consult with a medical professional. Do your research before introducing anything into your diet.