Herbal Therapy for Mental Health benefits

How do you feel about all natural herbal therapy?

It’s quite the interesting topic. I personally love herbal teas! I have mentioned in my Q&A blog how I literally have a collection. I use it to wind down for the night and even when I may need to calm stress throughout the day or an energy boost. Different types of herbs give different benefits.

*How can something look so beautiful and appetizing at the same time!?*
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Let’s take a look at some information on different herbs and their benefits.

Herbal therapies, or also called herbal remedies:
They are plants used as a medicine. They can be used to get relief from symptoms, relax (reduce stress), boost energy, and even to lose weight! Though, herbs are not regulated or tested as medicine’s are, they are an all natural plant remedy. They can also be used to cure or prevent a disease. Herbs can come in many forms for therapeutic uses.

As we can see, not only are they good for mental health symptoms, they can be used for your overall health. The goal for this blog is to help with information on which herbal therapies are good for different types of mental health symptoms, but of course it never hurts to inform of other benefits can come from them.

Not everyone will agree with herbal remedies, and that is perfectly okay! Just remember, if you ever do give it a try, it’s natural. That always gives me comfort knowing when using them. It is helping my body with no bad side effect. But with that said, please keep in mind that it is always a good idea to talk to your doctor before trying anything new. Especially if you are on any type of medication, or have any known or unknown allergies. You wouldn’t want to risk any side effect that may be possible when mixing with any type of medication. I am not a doctor so I cannot say if that is possible or not, but a health care professional can help with any questions you may have and go over your medical history, as well as advise to watch for any allergies or side effects. It’s important to keep that in mind, for your personal safety even if you are interested in an all natural plant based remedy.

Take a look at this herb combo with vitamin C. This is one that I’ve tried before, in capsule form.

The benefits of the AdrenaSense works together with the Vitamin C capsules. To help give the overall best effect the AdrenaSense is used for.

AdrenaSense is a natural formula containing rhodiola, suma, Siberian ginseng, schisandra, and ashwagandha. It provides herbal support for healthy adrenal gland function and promotes uninterrupted sleep during occasional sleeplessness, as well as, to help improve mental and physical performance after periods of exhaustion and to temporarily promote relaxation. It works with the adrenals, supporting healthy cortisol levels. So, you are pretty much healing your adrenal glands to promote the repair of its normal function. AdrenaSense is a product of the WomenSense line dedicated to helping women reach their full health potential.

AdrenaSense Suggested Use:
2 capsules mid-day with food or as directed by a health professional. Up to 4 capsules can be taken daily. (Take 1 vitamin C capsule with each AdreaSense dose)

The reason for using vitamin C with AdrenaSense is because vitamin C is directly involved in the production of cortisol and other adrenal hormones. The highest levels of vitamin C are found in your adrenal glands. Vitamin C is also a building block for recovery from fatigued adrenals.

Other Vitamin C benefits:

Vitamin C it’s self can enhance an overall better mood. Interesting fact, vitamin C is also known as, ascorbic acid. And it’s essential to a number of key processes in the body. Without vitamin C, your body cannot produce the protein needed for healthy blood vessels, skin, tendons and ligaments. Vitamin C is also necessary for wound healing and for maintaining the bones, cartilage and teeth. In addition, vitamin C is required by the immune system and necessary for absorbing the mineral iron from the foods that you eat.

Okay! So, enough of the adrenal health. I want to get to the other herbs! (Yay!)🌿🌱😁

Let’s go over types of herbs and the benefits they produce.

Herbal Therapies for Anxiety:

1. Chamomile – Chamomile is a flowering herb similar in appearance to a daisy. There are actually two types of Chamomile that people can use. Those are Roman Chamomile and German Chamomile. Different ways someone can use Chamomile to help relieve stress and anxiety include the following:
– Tea
– Extract
– Tablet
– Skin cream

It is possible to have an allergic reaction to Chamomile. Particularly so if someone has experienced reactions to these following plants:
– Ragweed
– Chrysanthemums
– Marigolds
– Daisies

It is possible that Chamomile may interact with certain medications. So, as I stated above it is always best to talk to your doctor before consumption of Chamomile teas or supplements.

2. Ashwagandha – Ashwagandha or also known as, Withania Somnifera is among a group of herbs called “adaptogens”.
Adaptogens affect systems and hormones in the body that regulate a person’s stress response. People can take ashwagandha in the following ways:
– Tablet
– Liquid Tincture

3. Valerian– Valerian also known as, Valeriana Officinalis, is a plant native to Europe and Asia. For many centuries, people have used the root to help treat sleep problems, anxiety, and depression.

Valerian root is available in the following forms:
– Tea
– Tablet
– Tincture

There is a study that suggest Valerian is generally safe. However, the NCCIH note that there is no information on the long-term use or safety of Valerian in the following groups:
– Pregnant women
– Nursing Mothers
– Children under 3 years of age

People should also be aware that Valerian may have a sleep inducing effect. Taking the herb with alcohol or sedatives will add to this effect and could be dangerous.

4. Lavender– Lavender is a flowering plant belonging to the mint family. Many people use lavender to help calm the nerves and alleviate anxiety.
People may use lavender in the following ways:
– Making tea from the leaves
– Using the oil in aromatherapy
– Mixing the essential oil into a base oil for massage
– Adding the oil or flowers to baths

Lavender essential oil (LEO) contains chemicals called terpenes. A study suggest that two of these terpenes called linalool and linalyl acetate may have a calming effect on chemical receptors in the brain.

5. Galphimia Glauca – Galphimia glauca is a plant species native to Mexico. People traditionally used it as a tranquilizer to reduce anxiety. According to a review, the evidence for G. glauca as a treatment for anxiety is promising. However, medical companies have not exploited its potential due to a lack of available plant material.

There was a clinical trial study performed on participants. Half of the participants were given G. glauca while the other half were given the prescription anti-anxiety medication Lorazepem for 12 weeks.
Researchers continued to monitor the participants for a further 3 weeks to test for withdrawal symptoms. Results showed that participants who received a daily dose of 0.175 mg of G. glauca showed a greater reduction in anxiety symptoms compared with those who took Lorazepam. Both treatments were safe.

6. Passionflower – Passionflower or Passiflora is a family of plants with around 550 different species. Some studies show that a particular species, P. incarnata, may be effective in treating restlessness, nervousness, and anxiety.

According to a review of complementary treatments, some evidence suggests that the anti-anxiety effects of P. incarnata are comparable to those of benzodiazepines.
Benzodiazepines are a class of drug that doctors may prescribe to treat anxiety.
People can take P. incarnata in tablet form or as a liquid tincture.

7. Kava Kava – Kava Kava or simply kava, is a shrub that is native to the islands of the Pacific Ocean. Its scientific name is Piper methysticum.
In the Pacific Islands, people use kava in a ceremonial beverage intended to relieve stress and alter mood.

Participants taking kava in a clinical trial showed a significant reduction in anxiety, suggesting kava may be a moderately effective short-term treatment for anxiety.
The study also found kava to be safe. People can buy Kava as a supplement online or in health food stores.

8. Cannabidiol (CBD) – It’s is one of the active ingredients of the cannabis plant.
Research suggest that CBD may have a calming effect on the central nervous system.
It can be found in the following forms:
– Tablet
– Liquid extract
– Vape liquid
– Topical cream

Researchers concluded that CBD may be beneficial for people with anxiety-related disorders.

Herbal Therapy/Herbal Remedies for depression:

1. St. John’s Wort – Relatively well-known herb that has been used for centuries as a successful treatment for depression.

It is most often taken in a capsule/pill form or drank as a tea, although other methods such as essential oils or consumption of the fresh herb may also be used.

A study has shown that this herb is at least as effective as most regularly prescribed antidepressants in the United States if not more effective. The study was able to determine that St. John’s Wort can successfully treat mild and moderate depression symptoms with fewer side effects than those experienced when taking antidepressant medication.

2. Saffron – Saffron is an exotic and luxurious spice of the Far East that sports a rich orange-red color and a distinctive flavor. But did you know it can also be used as an antidepressant?

While saffron can be more expensive to obtain than some of the other herbs on this list, it elicits a surprisingly effective response against depression without the other undesirable side effects of antidepressant medications.

There are three primary bioactive substances in saffron: picrocrocin, safranol, and crocin. These three substances work together to achieve the desired antidepressant effects in the body. Research also suggests that crocin and safranol’s inhabitation of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin reuptake receptors in the brain is likely responsible for the antidepressant effects that saffron produces in people who are experiencing depression symptoms.

3. Rhodiola – Because Rhodiola is an adaptogenic herb, it’s a fantastic treatment for not only depression but also for other kinds of mood disorders! Rhodiola is particularly well suited to managing and treating depression caused by stress and stressful situations, or that caused by PTSD.

Rhodiola is also sometimes called Arctic Root or Golden Root and its main purpose is to help the body fight off stress reactions and to support healthy mood balancing.

It’s said that this herb is best taken as an extract.

4. Rosemary – This might be a surprising remedy for depression, but rosemary is actually quite effective in treating nearly all forms of mild to moderate depression and the accompanying symptoms. The plant’s primary constituents, rosmanol, circimaritin, and salvigenin all work together to produce both depression-fighting and anxiety-reducing effects. These constituents are thought to work by working with the GABA receptors in the brain.

Rosemary is an important healing herb, but it’s also a great spice to keep in your kitchen. The plant can be used with most Italian dishes and also in some Middle Eastern foods to “supplement” an anti-depression herb or medication protocol. If you want a more concentrated form of the herb, consider buying rosemary in capsule form or as an essential oil (food grade).

5. Maca Root – Maca is used to treat a variety of ailments, including (but not limited to) depression, decreased libido, pre-menopausal symptoms, and more. The root is generally consumed as a tea, in capsule form, or as a powder mixed with water or milk. While the plant can be used to treat depression in both men and women of any age, it’s most often used to treat anxiety and depression in women who have reached menopause because of its balancing effects on the hormonal systems in the body.

There was a study that analyzed the effects of maca root on depression and other pre- and post-menopausal symptoms in women. The study found that there were dramatic improvements in both mood, libido, and overall energy in all of the 14 women who participated in the study.

Is herbal medicine really effective?

Well, yes! Effectiveness of herbal preparations is directly linked to appropriate dosing, frequency and choice of herb. The main reason you hear of herbs not working is due to inappropriate dosing or using the incorrect herb for the illness.

Honestly, herbal remedies depend on your comfort. It’s important to learn about the herb(s) you may be interested in, and the best way to take them.

Happy herbing!😌🌱☕️🌿

Heal with Art!

Art therapy is a technique created around the idea that creative expression can promote healing and mental well-being. By either creating it or viewing others art, it is used to help people explore emotions, develop self-awareness, cope with stress, boost self-esteem, and work on social skills.

Art therapy can help children, adolescents, and adults! Also, great for managing addictions, anxiety, depression, and coping with a physical illness or disability.

Art therapy can include a wide range of art materials and processes. Your sessions could potentially include activities such as working with clay, painting, making a mask, creating a visual journal, and assembling a collage. Most often, the focus will be on the process rather than creating a finished art product.

How is art healing?

Art is healing because it forces you to forge a connection between your mind and your body. Unlike exercise, which works your body, or meditation, which clears your mind, art-making accesses both mind and body to promote healing.

Art Brings More Creativity, Satisfaction, and Happiness into our Lives. Scientific studies have proven that art appreciation improves our quality of life and makes us feel good. When we create art, we elevate our mood, we improve our ability to problem solve, and open our minds to new ideas.

How is art related to life?

Art surrounds life, all people in every location, without us being aware of it. Since time immemorial, art has existed as long as man has. It is a huge part of our culture, which shapes our ideas, and vice versa, and provides us with a deeper understanding of emotions, self-awareness, and more.

*Here’s where things start to get a little deeper..*

Who created art therapy?

The British artist Adrian Hill coined the term art therapy in 1942. Hill, recovering from tuberculosis in a sanatorium, discovered the therapeutic benefits of drawing and painting while convalescing.

Okay, but are you ready to get into something a little more dark? Regarding the topic, of course..

How about, Famous Artists Who Struggled with Mental Illness? After all, even those who we may look up to have their own struggles. How is that for not feeling alone? Let’s take a look!

• Vincent Van Gogh. – By far the most famous example of an artist with mental illness. Van Gogh suffered from anxiety and depression throughout his short life, and he once wrote, “I put my heart and my soul into my work, and lost my mind in the process.”

Vincent van Gogh was a Dutch post-Impressionist painter of landscapes, still life works, and self-portraits. He was not commercially successful during his lifetime, and his death at 37 from a self-inflicted gunshot came after years of mental illness, depression, and poverty. After his death, he became better known and he is now considered one of the most influential artists in the history of Western art. His work, with its bold brush strokes and colors, shows not only a tortured mind but also an immense talent.

• Edgar Degas – was known to be an old curmudgeon who hid away in his studio only to emerge at night to walk the streets of Paris. He visited salons with a small circle of fellow artists and patrons and bristled at any intrusions from art critics. In a grouchy tone, he once wrote to critics, “Is painting done to be looked at? Do you understand me? One works for two or three friends who are alive and for others who are dead or unknown.”

Degas was friends with American Impressionist painter Mary Cassatt, who also lived in Paris. Degas, Cassatt, and Cassatt’s sister, Lydia, were often seen at the Louvre studying artworks together. Cassatt and Degas weren’t romantically involved, and in fact, neither ever married. Degas lived alone his entire adult life.

In the 1880s, Degas suffered from bouts of depression and aimlessness. “I’m blocked, impotent. I’ve lost the thread,” he wrote in a letter in 1884. Degas spent the last years of his life nearly blind, restlessly wandering the streets of Paris. Although he had friends and family, his irritability and cruel sense of humor tended to chase people away. He died in 1917. Isn’t it amazing that such a grouchy man could have made such beautiful and light-hearted paintings of dancers, singers, and people enjoying themselves at the races?

• Edvard Munch – suffered from anxiety and hallucinations. The painter created his most famous image, The Scream, after it came to him when he was out for a walk at sunset on a fjord overlooking Oslo. He wrote that as the sun began to set, it suddenly turned the sky a blood red. “I stood there trembling with anxiety and I sensed an endless scream passing through nature.” The painting is thought to represent human anxiety in the modern world,which Munch experienced throughout his life.

Mental illness ran in Munch’s family. His grandfather suffered from depression and his aunt was diagnosed with schizophrenia. Munch’s childhood was marked by loss, as his mother and one of his sisters died of tuberculosis, and one of his sisters was diagnosed with mental illness. In December 1889, after Munch’s father died, leaving the family destitute, Munch assumed financial responsibility for his family, though he was deeply saddened by the loss of his father.

In the autumn of 1908 his anxiety, compounded by heavy drinking, became acute, and he experienced hallucinations and feelings of persecution. He entered a clinic for treatment and after eight months emerged in better health. He saw his mental illness as an important motivation for his art. He wrote in his diary: “My fear of life is necessary to me, as is my illness. They are indistinguishable from me, and their destruction would destroy my art.” Munch died of natural causes in his house near Oslo on 23 January 1944, about a month after his 80th birthday. His artistic temperament and talent brought him success and eventually peace, and greatly benefitted the world of art.

• Mark Rothko – was an American abstract expressionist painter. Rothko was born in Latvia but grew up in Portland, Oregon and spent most of his adult life in New York City. He suffered from bouts of depression and was a heavy drinker. Viewing the vibrating colors in a large-scale Rothko painting in person at a museum is almost a mystical, meditative experience that should not be missed. Let’s hope that painting these works of art also brought the artist some peace and art therapy.

In early 1968, Rothko was diagnosed with a mild aortic aneurysm. He ignored his doctor’s orders and continued to drink and smoke, avoided exercise, and ate an unhealthy diet. His friend and art critic Dore Ashton said of him at the time that he was “highly nervous, thin, restless.”

On February 25, 1970, Rothko’s assistant found the artist in his kitchen, lying dead on the floor in front of the sink, covered in blood. He had overdosed on barbiturates, and cut an artery in his right arm with a razor blade. There was no suicide note. He was only 66. The tragedy of his suicide belies the joy that his colorful paintings elicit. He is considered one of the most influential modern abstract expressionists.

• Georgia O’Keeffe – suffered from depression, although it’s possible her depression was situational. She was admitted to Doctors Hospital in New York City for treatment after a nervous breakdown in 1933. Her two month hospitalization followed a difficult time in her life. She had just abandoned a project to complete a Radio City Music Hall mural, and her renowned photographer husband Alfred Stieglitz was having an affair with a woman almost two decades younger than O’Keeffe and more than four decades younger than himself.

O’Keeffe had been invited to paint a mural in the women’s powder room at the new Radio City Music Hall. She agreed to the project despite minimal payment because she had long been intrigued by the challenge of painting a large work of art. Unfortunately, O’Keeffe discovered that the plaster of the new building wasn’t going to be dry in time, and she was unable to apply paint. She abandoned the project and became depressed. She became agoraphobic, stopped eating, and wept for days, according to one of her biographers.

O’Keeffe had visited New Mexico earlier and loved it. She returned in mid-1934 and recuperated from her hospital stay. In August she visited Ghost Ranch, north of Abiquiú, for the first time, and decided immediately to live there. She moved into a house on the ranch property in 1949. The warmth and beauty of Ghost Ranch seem to have helped her heal and they inspired some of her most famous landscape paintings. She lived to age 98.

• Michelangelo Buonarroti – Michelangelo’s hand was touched by genius and by madness. The paintings and sculptures of this artist rank among the best in the world, and a visit to Italy to see his work should be on everyone’s bucket list. He produced a huge volume of work with meticulous detail, leading some art historians to speculate that he had obsessive-compulsive disorder. He also suffered from depression and anxiety, shutting himself away from the world for days at a time to work, forgetting to eat or change clothes.

Michelangelo sculpted two of his best-known works, the Pietà and David, before he turned thirty. Although he held a low opinion of painting, he also painted two of the most influential frescoes in the history of Western art.

Much of his correspondence and notes have survived which means that his life and personality are well-documented. From his correspondence we know that he lived like a poor man, was indifferent to food and drink, and often slept in his clothes and boots. The earliest biography of Michelangelo, by Paolo Giovio (circa 1527), says Michelangelo’s nature “was so rough and uncouth that his domestic habits were incredibly squalid, and deprived posterity for any pupils who might have followed him.”

In one of his letters to his father, the artist wrote, “I lead a miserable existence and reck not of life nor honor – that is of this world; I live wearied by stupendous labors and beset by a thousand anxieties. And thus I lived for some fifteen years now and never an hour’s happiness have I had.”

As art fans, we can’t help but feel deep gratitude that Michelangelo and these other incredible artists persevered despite their illnesses to make beautiful and lasting works of art.

What do you think?

I find it very interesting that people with such talent, couldn’t see their own value enough to pull themselves through such darkness in their lives. But the same goes for anyone suffering from depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue. We need to realize that we all have something special within ourselves that we may not be able to see, but it is there. Our own self value is so great. Never be afraid to speak up and get help. Never be ashamed to talk to someone who you trust. It’s human to go through obstacles in life. We all go through something that we may need a helping hand with. But we must understand that giving up is never an option. Break the silence, break the stigma.

I know that some of those artist stories ended in tragic events. But the emotions we feel as we read about them. It’s easy to feel and see that they were so much more than their illness. So much more than their negative emotions. We need to look at ourselves more like that. We are so much more than our struggles.

Here is a note from the article writer from the six artist we learned about today: “So many have struggled with mental illness and we want you to know that YOU ARE NOT ALONE.”

That is a strong message within only three lines. It is an acknowledgment that there is HOPE. People do care about YOU. You are LOVED. You are WORTH IT. 🖤;

For a crisis situation: •Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to reach a 24-hour crisis center, text MHA to 741741