You may add herbs and spices to everyday dishes, but their power has so much unspoken healing potential

  Did you know that herbs and spices date back thousands of years in history as-as a form of medicine? Herbs and spices can act as an aid or a natural remedy and brain-boosters for those who suffer from stress, anxiety, and a disorder known as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). First, let’s take a look at what exactly this disorder entails…  

What is PTSD?

According to Atlanta Black Star, “Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a psychiatric condition that often arises after an individual witness or is involved in a life-threatening event such as a disaster, rape, or violent assault.” This type of disorder does not target a particular age group. Children and adults can relive the trauma through flashbacks, nightmares, or behavior disorders like depression, crying, or insomnia. People who have PTSD may feel detached from their surroundings or estranged from pets, friends, or family members. In many severe cases, people suffer profoundly in their everyday life. Living with PTSD, sometimes known as battle fatigue, survivor’s guilt, or traumatic neurosis, is not a new thing. It’s been around for quite some time, often defined by these symptoms:

• Anxiety
• Easily startled
• Hypervigilant
• Irritability
• Anger
• Mood changes
• Fearfulness
• Numbness
• Inability to experience joy or pleasure
• Loss of memory
• Avoiding area associated with trama

Homeopathic Remedies for PTSD

Homeopathic or natural remedies can help ease these symptoms and offer support to those that suffer through the healing process and make their way to recovery. In many cases, herbs and spices are known for their ability to relieve anxiety, stress, and other overwhelming feelings, which may be found under the scope of post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. Adding herbs to your diet can be simple, by enjoying their flavor and relaxing effects in tea form or tossed in with food, like a salad.

Plan an afternoon and spend some time in an apothecary or herbal store. Speaking with the herbal specialists about your concerns and what you are looking for in an herb. It is important to know how to utilize an herb properly and when is the best time of the day to add the herb to your daily diet. Be sure to discuss any medications you’re currently taking to avoid possible side effects when used in conjunction with your herbal remedy. We recommend going online and checking out Austin’s very own Herb Bar. A true apothecary with trained professionals. It is worth the trip into town! In Round Rock, you may contact the Wellness store Healthy Indeed with any of your questions. Wanting more information on herbs in Texas, we found this great store and website hosted by Cindy.  Located not far from Shiner Texas on your way to Houston.   http://www.theherbcottage.com/welcome/.

A list of plants and their properties is listed below used throughout history to address neurological symptoms:

Stramonium (jimsonweed) – helps with night terrors and nightmares, especially if a child (or sometimes an adult) is afraid of the dark. Helpful for people who experience anguish, fear, violence, and sleeplessness within their anxiety disorder.

Gelsemium – quells anticipatory fears something drastic or bad will happen. The impending dread of the future often makes an individual feel weak, with heavy eyelids, occipital headaches, and the possibility of diarrhea.

Staphysagria- helps adults and children who have been distressed due to violence. People who find comfort in Staphysagria are often those who previously are left feeling powerless and unable to defend themselves. You may find these people described as sweet but unable to deal with grief or anger as they suppress it until it erupts in outbursts of rage.

Chamomilla – brings a sense of ease and calmness. People who experience trauma and later become hypersensitive or hypervigilant find comfort in chamomilla teas. They may be oversensitive to noise and music and complain of stomach aches. Being rocked or “tickled” on the back often brings relief.  

In addition to these herbal remedies for PTSD, we encourage you to enjoy these beautiful herbs and spices that support brain function and health:

• Ashwagandha: Think: Mental clarity. It boosts the brain’s memory and helps keep the immune system. Considered a nervine, it protects the brain against cell deterioration.
• Common Black Pepper: Use as an excellent for improving brain function and combats headaches. Piperine, the compound responsible for peppers’ taste, is an anti-inflammatory and also aids in the absorption of other nutrients, including curcumin found in turmeric.
• Cinnamon: Commonly found to be a natural antiviral, antimicrobial immune-boosting spice. Sprinkle a bit in your coffee or cereal to help fight off bacterial infections and make you a bit more alert. It is also known to slow the absorption of sugar and is considered one of the best foods for type 2 diabetics.
• Cloves: Use as an excellent mental stimulant and aide in reducing oxidative stress when used in coffees or cookies (or both!)
• Ginkgo biloba: Commonly used for cognitive function by promoting blood flow and served as a tea.
• Ginseng: Use as an anti-inflammatory and reduced level of beta-amyloid, which are associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
• Gotu kola: Improves blood circulation and memory, balancing all aspects of brain function.
• Holy Basil: Helps circulation, sprinkly in pastas generously.
• Lemon balm: Dry and put in a tea to improve cognitive function, reduce anxiety and insomnia.
• Oregano: Fight free radicals by using on a cauliflower pizza.
• Sage: Enhance memory by sprinkling sage on a turkey or chicken.
• Saffron: Mix chicken, saffron, and garlic for a new take on depression (and an improvement during dinner!)
• Tagara: Commonly known as Indian Valerian, mix with meat and veggies to aid emotional and nervous conditions.
• Thyme: Don’t run out of “thyme.” Roast some potatoes and sprinkle this herb to increase omega-3 acids, which helps protect the brain from common aging disorders like dementia.
• Tulsi: Order a Tulsi Herbal Chai (coffee) to increase the brain’s oxygen levels and improve circulation.
• Turmeric: Cook up Tadka Dhal, a famous Indian recipe to reduce inflammation and a savory meal.

Natural herbs and spices are known for aiding in anxiety and stress relief. In the best case, these natural remedies help ease restlessness, nervousness, and stress.

If you’re experiencing symptoms, it is essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations and remain educated and focused on the best medical plan for you. If you do not have a current physician, please visit our directory for a complete listing! We can connect you with wonderful Functional Integrative Health Practitioners in Williamson County, TX.  

References: Atlas Black Star: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder