There are many species of Skullcap, Scutellaria Lateriflora, American Skullcap, used in Western Herbalism, and Scutellaria Baicalensis, Chinese Skullcap, used in Chinese Medicine. Both are commonly prescribed by Naturopaths.

Valerian/Valeriana Officinalis benefits for insomnia & sleep disturbance was first prescribed during the Greek and Roman era. Valerian is best known as a sedative, nervine, antispasmodic, hypotensive, diuretic, and anticonvulsant. You can use it to soothe sleep disturbance, grief/loss, depression, neuralgic pain, dysmenorrhea, epilepsy, nervous headaches, and decreased cerebral circulation.

Lavender is a calming ally for an overtaxed nervous system. Lavender is a wonderful healer in each of her forms: essential oil, salve, tea, or tincture. Best used to relieve anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, indigestion, headaches, pre-menstrual cramps.

Passion Flower is useful in supporting insomnia and nervous system disorders. The leaves ingested as tea or tinctures address; insomnia, anxiety, seizures, Parkinson’s disease, neuralgia, shingles, and nervous palpitations or headache. External use can address hemorrhoids, burns, or inflammation, especially when used in a neutral sitz bath. Passion Flower fruit has a sweet and sour flavor and can be eaten whole. When eaten it acts as a sedative, anxiolytic, antispasmodic, hypotensive, and nervine. It has an affinity for the heart and liver according to the herbalist, Michael Terra. Passion Flower is also helpful in decreasing amphetamine-induced hypermotility, aggressiveness, and restlessness.

Another member of the mint family, Lemon Balm acts as an antiviral, sedative, carminative, hypotensive, uplifting agent, and antispasmodic. It can be used in a variety of ways. I love placing a few leaves in my water when I need a pick me up. Its lemony scent is enriching. It combines well with St. John’s Wort to treat viral infections topically. A bath with Lemon Balm and Rosemary can be helpful for low mood and motivation.

As a member of the mint family, Leonurus Cardiaca or Motherwort has an affinity for supporting healthy cardiac and pelvic systems.