Mental Health Awareness Day serves as a crucial reminder to shine a light on mental health and promote understanding and support for those affected. Herbs and traditional practices are not a treatment for any mental health condition. If you are struggling, please speak to your GP or a mental health professional, and in the UK you can also contact organisations such as Mind or the Samaritans for support.
With that said, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a centuries-old tradition with its own holistic view of wellbeing, and it can be fascinating to explore. Here is an introduction to how the tradition thinks about balance, and the herbs most associated with calm.
The Holistic Approach of Traditional Chinese Medicine
TCM is an ancient system that dates back thousands of years, built around the idea of balancing body, mind, and spirit. It operates on the principles of Qi (energy flow), Yin and Yang (opposing forces), and the Five Elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water). In traditional thought, wellbeing comes from restoring balance and harmony within the body.
How the Tradition Views Mental Wellbeing
In traditional theory, mental and physical wellbeing are seen as intricately linked through the body's energy pathways, with difficult periods attributed to imbalances in Qi. This is a traditional framework rather than a medical model, but it shapes how practitioners of the tradition approach daily routines, diet, and herbs.
Practices Within the Tradition
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Acupuncture and Acupressure: Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points in the body, while acupressure applies pressure to the same points. In traditional theory, both are intended to restore the flow of Qi and balance Yin and Yang, and many people find the sessions themselves relaxing.
- Chinese Herbs: The tradition draws on a wide array of herbs, roots, and plant extracts, which in traditional thought work in harmony with the body to nourish balance as part of daily routines.
If you are considering any of these alongside your wellbeing, speak to your GP first, and consult a qualified TCM practitioner for guidance on traditional use.
Herbs Traditionally Associated with Calm
1. Ginseng (Ren Shen): Ginseng belongs to the group of roots traditionally described as adaptogens, and has been associated with vitality and mental clarity for centuries as part of a balanced daily routine.
Shop Sliced Ginseng 人参切片 (Ren Shen) | (50g)
2. Rhodiola (Hong Jing Tian): Rhodiola is another herb from the adaptogenic tradition, long taken during busy and demanding periods and traditionally associated with balance and steady energy.
Shop Rhodiola Rosea Root (Hong Jing Tian/红景天) Supplement - 60 Capsules 
3. Schisandra (Wu Wei Zi): Schisandra, the 'five flavour berry', is traditionally associated with a sense of calm and focus, and is often brewed as part of an unwinding evening routine.
Shop Dried Schisandra 五味子 (Wu Wei Zi) | (500g)
4. Reishi Mushroom (Ling Zhi): Reishi is one of the most revered mushrooms in Chinese tradition, used for centuries and traditionally associated with calm, balance, and quiet evenings. It sits within the adaptogenic tradition and remains a popular choice for wind-down routines.
Shop Dried Reishi Mushroom 灵芝 (Sliced Ling Zhi) | (50g) 
Summary
Exploring traditions like TCM can be enlightening, and its focus on balance of mind, body, and spirit has resonated for thousands of years. This Mental Health Awareness Day, let's raise awareness, support one another, and remember that professional help is always the right first step when things feel too heavy.
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