In every century there have been sources of great stress, whether war, famine, political and religious upheaval, or epidemics and pandemics. Through all of these terrible times certain herbs have proved their worth and been turned to again and again, to give support and soothe emotional wounds. At this difficult time when loneliness and loss are so common the herb garden and certain herbs in particular offer solace.

Calming herbs range from lavender, which acts swiftly as you breathe in the fragrance to encourage deeper breathing and ease the mind, through gentle lime-blossom, a honeyed, enjoyable tea aiding relaxation for sleep, to the deep emotional healing of rose, appreciated through use of the aromatic water, herbal teas, creams and more.

Rose is the herb most appreciated for treating the grief of loss, while the delicate vervain may be given by herbalists to aid someone who is suffering from holding onto a grievance of some kind. Chamomile and lemon balm, passiflora, cowslips, clove pinks, orange blossom and in some circumstances, valerian, have all worked their own particular transformations, alone, or in combination on troubled minds and hearts.

Sleep pillows can contribute to a soothing night-time atmosphere and are useful to take with you when away from home. The panic pillow below, taken from the chapter on Compassionate Herbs for Stress in Herbwise Naturally, is smaller and can be carried in your bag to use for relief on stressful journeys, visits to the dentists or when you are anxious.