Depression

Depression is a serious problem for many people today. There are some herbal teas that should help bring cheer to the depressed. However, please note that depression is best cured in combination with doctors, exercise, etc.

Here are some combinations of herbs to make the best herbal teas for depression:

*lavender flower infusion, taken 3 times a day
*lavender and rosemary infusion, taken 3 times a day
*any combination of lavender, rosemary, and skullcap, 3 times a day
*vervain, taken 3 times a day
*vervain and skullcap, taken 3 times a day

Herbal tea infusion:
*Use 1-3 tsp. of dired herb or 1-3 tbsp. fresh herb per 1 cup boiling water. Let it steep for 20-30 minutes, strain and sip slowly.

For additional information, see: references and warnings

Vervain

Name:
*Vervain (Verbena officinalis)


Description:
*perennial
*best in zones 5-9
*grows up to 4 feet tall
*famous for helping with stress

Parts Used:
*flowering aerial parts, fresh or dried

Position:
*grow plants 1 foot apart because they slowly fill in space
*full sun to light shade
*well-drained soil

Propagation:
*propagate from seed: use cold stratification for 1-2 weeks, then sow indoors in seed trays/flats. Transplant outdoors in late spring. Germination is erratic and can take up to 4 weeks

flowering aerial part

Maintenance:
*easy going plant, simply must be weeded often
*give low to moderate amounts of water

Harvesting:
*harvest flowering aerial parts from mid to late summer, if drying them, store in airtight containers
*you can easily dry by cutting the whole plant when in bloom and drying hung upside down in dry, warm, well-ventilated dark place

Medicinal:
*has a calming and restorative effect on the nervous system
*uplifts the mood: great for depression
*can relieve nervous exhaustion
*great supportive remedy for tension and stress
*highly effective for those who feel miserable and fatigued during recovery from feverish illnesses such as the flu
*can reduce cramps and period pains
*regarded as a liver remedy

For additional information, see: references and warnings