Ever feel like your emotions are running the show—dictating everything from your mood and energy levels to your hunger, and even whether you’ll stick to those plans you made earlier in the week when you were feeling social and optimistic? You’re not alone. In a world that expects us to maintain endless emotional stamina, all while (quietly) nudging us to stay grateful, positive and upbeat 24/7, managing our emotions can start to feel like a full-time job.

But what if nature had a few tricks up its sleeve to help you navigate that emotional rollercoaster with a bit more grace? The truth is, that more people are turning to herbs to steady their minds and support emotional well-being. In fact, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), about 18.7 percent of U.S. adults use herbal remedies for health support.

Think of these herbs as your trusty botanical besties, ready to lend a hand during moments of stress, emotional overwhelm or even those days when no matter how hard you try, everything feels a bit off.

In this article, we’ll dive into three key herbs that can be particularly beneficial for mood support. Whether you’re looking to calm anxiety, boost mental clarity or promote overall emotional balance, these herbs are essential tools to add to your wellness routine and herbal first-aid kit.

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Lemon balm is a cooling nervine belonging to the mint family, characterized by its strong lemony aroma. Often referred to as a nervous trophorestorative, lemon balm supports the nervous system over time. It is traditionally known to “uplift the spirits” and is affectionately called the “gladdening” herb. Lemon balm is particularly indicated for individuals experiencing anxiety, nervousness or low mood (Ulbricht et al., 2005).

Additionally, as a carminative, lemon balm alleviates digestive upset, which can often accompany stress and anxiety. Its antispasmodic properties stem from volatile oils like citral and citronellal.

A 2003 clinical trial involving 20 participants demonstrated that those receiving lemon balm showed significant increases in feelings of calm compared to a placebo group (Kennedy et al., 2003). Beyond mood support, lemon balm can enhance sleep quality and bolster immune health due to its antiviral properties. Energetically, it is considered cooling and drying and is rich in antioxidant, anxiolytic and mood-supporting properties.

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

Skullcap is renowned for its ability to relax and soothe the nervous system. It is indicated for stress, tension, anxiety and nervousness. Energetically, skullcap is classified as a bitter and cooling herb, making it especially beneficial for those with a warm constitution. It provides relief during excitability and overstimulation, making it invaluable in stressful situations (Brock et al., 2014).

Skullcap excels at alleviating acute stress and anxiety, serving as a calming tonic to the nervous system. While effective in acute situations, it can also be taken long-term to support the nervous system and mitigate the negative effects of chronic stress. As a nerve tonic, it benefits those who have experienced prolonged stress and may feel their nerves are perpetually on edge.

Albizia (Albizia julibrissin)

Commonly known as the herb of happiness, albizia is recognized for its mood-supportive and calming properties during times of anxiety and distress (“Albizia,” 2008). Traditionally known as “huan hua” (flowers) and “he huan pi” (bark), albizia is described in the Chinese Materia Medica as a calming spirit herb. The bark is said to anchor the spirit, while the flowers impart a sense of lightness.

Albizia’s actions are particularly effective in easing emotional distress, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their overall mood and resilience.

Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum)

Holy basil, or tulsi, has been revered in ayurvedic traditions for more than 3,000 years for its profound effects on mental and emotional health. Classified as an adaptogen and a nervine, holy basil is a tonic that supports individuals facing stress in various forms. As an adaptogen, it helps the body manage stress by modulating physiological processes, effectively restoring balance. Many herbalists consider holy basil a rasayana, or an herb that promotes health and longevity.

One of the primary mechanisms by which holy basil supports mood is through its regulation of cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone. Research indicates that holy basil may also influence neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play crucial roles in mood regulation, motivation and pleasure. By modulating these chemicals, holy basil can help stabilize mood and enhance emotional resilience (Cohen, 2014; Jamshidi & Cohen, 2017).

As an adaptogen, holy basil aids not only in physical stress management but also enhances the body’s ability to adapt to mental and emotional challenges. This balancing effect helps support feelings of anxiety and mental fatigue, allowing for improved focus and emotional equilibrium, even in stressful circumstances (Jamshidi, N., & Cohen, M. M, 2017).

Summary

While managing emotions in today’s fast-paced world can often feel overwhelming, incorporating herbal allies like lemon balm, skullcap, albizia and holy basil into your wellness routine can offer significant support.

As more research sheds light on the mind-body connection, these botanicals offer a natural, holistic approach to supporting emotional health and enhancing resilience in the face of life’s inevitable ups and downs. Whether you’re navigating daily stressors or simply trying to stay cool in a chaotic world, these plants are here to help!VR

Brianna Diorio holds a PhD in integrative medicine from the University of Natural Medicine and is a clinical nutritionist with a Master’s of Science in Human Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport. She is also a functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner (FDN), an herbal practitioner through the Herbal Academy, a family herbalist through The School of Natural Healing, a NASM certified personal trainer, and a holistic lifestyle coach from the C.H.E.K Institute. Diorio is the host of the Brianna Approved Podcast, which is a podcast for people who like a holistic approach to real science and clinical research on all things nutrition, botanicals and balance. She currently works as a clinician with her private practice that specializes in alternative health, functional medicine and dietary supplements. Diorio works with a vast array of clients and businesses to educate and improve their health and dietary needs.