Ailments & Treatments ( Nervousness ) by Trisha ( Venus )

[Dept of PMM Artists & things]

Nervousness

 

                                              What You Can Do

 

You can treat slight nervousness easily with natural remedies--by drinking calming teas made with medicinal plants, taking appropiate essential oils and learning relaxation exercises. Get alot of outdoor exercise, and do without cigarettes, alcohol and coffee if you can. Whenin any doubt about the seriousness of your nervous condition, consult a physician to make sure there is no underlying disease or chronic problems.

 

                                                   Herbs For Nerves

 

Valerian root is a popular herbal remedy for calming the nerves. To reduce anxiety or to defeat insomnia, drink 2-3 cups of valerian tea every day. Make the tea by adding 1 tbspp. of valerian root to 3 cups of cold water and simmering for 10 min. Consider using St. John's Wort, hops, lemon balm, passionflower and verbena, too; these plants also ease nervousness and sleep disorders.

 

                           Essential Oils Calm The Nervous System

 

Sandalwood oil and orange oil have a calming effect on the autonomic nervous system. Their components reduce blood pressure and have a euphoric effect, creating inner calm and peacefulness. Dilute the pure oils with sesame, safflower or another quality vegetable oil and rub a few drops on you chest and temples.

 

                                         For Meditation

 

A few drops of pure oil may be dabbed on a cotton ball and tucked into your pillowcase to reduce restlessness and prevent insomnia. Or consider fitting the lightbulb of your bedroom lamp with a small terra-cotta ring that is made for essential oils--available at health-food and craft stores. The scent of the oil will dissipate into the room when warmed by the lightbulb.

 

                                      Deep Breathing

 

Allow yourself to take regular breaks when working, and especially when stressed. Learn to relax while taking slow, deep breaths. Deep breathing engages the parasympathetic nervous system. Be aware of releasing tension with each slow exhalation.

 

                                            Gentle Relaxation

 

Milky oat tinctures, available in most health-food stores, can help modify the nervous system. The milky fluid found in steel-cut oats is believed to calm nervous tension and act as a gentle restorative for nervous exhaustion. An oat ticture may be taken at a dosage of 1/2-1 tsp. 3-6 times a day as needed. Eating oatmeal and drinking oat milk may alsoo benefit the nervous system.

 

                                         Medicinal Teas

 

For Sleep Disorders*

1/3 oz. valerian root

1/2 oz. licorice root

1/4 oz. lavender flowers

 

Mix the valerian and licorice together, keeping the lavender seperate. Simmer 2 tsp. of the mixture in 3 cups of water for 10 min. Remove from heat and add 2 tsp. of lavender flowers. Strain and drink several cups in the evening just before bedtime.

 

To Calm You Down*

1/2 oz. skullcap leaves

1/2 oz. passionflower

1/3 oz. lemon balm

1 oz. peppermint

1/2 oz. St. John's wort

 

For 1 cup, pour boiling water over 1 tsp. of herbs Steep in a covered pan10 min., strain and drink as desired.

 

                                       Balanced Nutrition

 

To help ease nervousness, try eating low-salt and vitamin-riich foods. Rawor juiced vegetables and fruita are ideal, as are beans, tofu, soy milk, nuts, yogurt and honey. It is also a good idea to avoid spicy and greasy foods as well as caffeinated beverages.

 

                                            Daily Ritual

 

Try relaxing in a rosemary bath when you feel overcome with nervous tension. Pour 1 qtt. of water over 1-2 oz. of rosemary leaves and bring the infusion to a boil. Simmer for 10 min., strain and add the mixture to a hot bath. Relax in the tub for about 15 min.; rest for at least 30 min. following your bath.