Five Mood Enhancing Herbs

There are several herbs that can help to enhance mood and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Some of the most popular mood-enhancing herbs include:

St. John's Wort: This herb has been used for centuries to treat mild to moderate depression and anxiety. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood.

Ashwagandha: This herb has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine as a natural remedy for stress, anxiety and depression. It works by modulating the activity of stress-related neurotransmitters in the brain and also helps to support the adrenal glands. I have never grown it before, so this year I am experimenting.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an herbaceous shrub from the nightshade family, native to India, Nepal, and Northern Africa. Also known as Indian ginseng, or winter cherry.  They are traditionally cultivated for their roots. These slow-growing plants can reach up to 3 feet in height and be kept as perennials in USDA zones 7 and higher. They also produce edible bright orange-red berries similar to tomatillos.  In my area of Zone 5 I can grow it in a pot or treat it as an annual.

Ashwagandha grows best in full sun (6 hours or more).  It can tolerate some partial shade, but it will have a slower growth rate and take longer to reach maturity, which takes 170 days.

The ideal temperature range for growing Ashwagandha is between 68°F and 95°F. This plant does not tolerate frost. You can cultivate it as a perennial in USDA zones 7 to 12, but in zones 4 to 8, you can grow it as a summer annual.

If you live in a cooler climate, plant Ashwagandha seeds indoors and move the plant to your garden only when temperatures are consistently above 59°F. 

Passionflower: This herb has been traditionally used to treat anxiety and insomnia. It can help to promote relaxation and reduce feelings of nervousness.

Lemon Balm: Has a bright, lemony scent and flavor that's perfect for spring. It's also a natural mood booster, making it great for those days when you need a little extra help to shake off the winter blues.

Sage: This herb has been used to improve mood and cognitive function, and has been traditionally used to treat anxiety and depression. Sage has been found to have a positive effect on mood and cognitive function.

It's important to note that these herbs can interact with certain medications, so it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any new herb. Additionally, if you have severe depression or anxiety, it is important to seek professional help.

It is also important to note that some herbs may have some side effects and should be used with caution and under the guidance of a proper healthcare professional.