PART 3. THE REMEDIES
8
MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS
NERVOUS TENSION
You’re living in a modern world; you’ve likely experienced nervous tension at some time. Whether brought on by financial stress, difficulties in your relationship, or a tough situation at work, this type of tension evaporates quickly when you make relaxation a priority. Instead of unwinding with a cocktail, try these healthy herbal remedies. If you find yourself feeling the effects of nervous tension often, consider talking with your doctor to rule out a more serious problem.
Lemon Balm Tea
YIELD: 1 CUP
STORAGE: NOT RECOMMENDED
TIME: 15 MINUTES
Lemon balm has a fresh, pleasant taste. This tea alleviates tension while leaving you feeling calm and alert.
1 tablespoon dried lemon balm
1 cup boiling water
1.In a mug, combine the lemon balm and boiling water.
2.Steep for 15 minutes.
3.Drink a cup any time you need to relax but can’t take time out for a nap.
Passionflower–Rooibos Iced Tea
YIELD: ½ GALLON
STORAGE: REFRIGERATE IN PITCHER
TIME: 10 MINUTES
Passionflower and rooibos combine to alleviate nervous tension and bring your mood back into balance. Rooibos tea bags are easy to find at health food stores and most supermarkets.
2 tablespoons dried passionflower
4 rooibos tea bags, any flavor
8 cups water
1.In a saucepan, add the passionflower and rooibos tea bags. Bring to a boil.
2.Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the herbs for 10 minutes.
3.Remove from the heat, cool, then strain the tea into a pitcher and chill.
4.Sweeten this tea if you like, or flavor it with lemon or vanilla. Drink as much as you like to maintain a state of alert relaxation.
Lavender–Lemon Balm Bath Salt
YIELD: 4 CUPS
STORAGE: AIRTIGHT CONTAINER
TIME: 30 MINUTES
Lavender and lemon balm combine to ease tension. Make this relaxing bath salt ahead of time so you’ll have it on hand when needed.
4 cups Epsom salt
½ teaspoon lavender essential oil
½ teaspoon lemon balm essential oil
1.In an airtight container, add the Epsom salt, and the lavender and lemon balm essential oils, and use a whisk or fork to blend.
2.Draw a warm bath.
3.Add ¼ cup of the bath salt. Swish until it dissolves.
4.Relax in the bath for 30 minutes.
5.Enjoy this bath salt any time you feel the need to relax. Store in a dark, cool place between uses.