This guide to the best herbs for self-love will teach you how to incorporate different herbs into your everyday routine to make yourself healthier, wealthier, and more in love with yourself.
The Heart-Mind Connection With Self-Love
The journey to self-love starts with the physical. The mind and body are interconnected entities, so if one is out of balance, you will never be able to tune the other. Here, we are taking a special look at the heart as the first step on the journey to self-love. According to research, the heart relays essential messages to the brain via four signaling pathways:
- Neurological – the heart plays an important intermediary role between the nervous system of the brain through the transmission of nerve impulses that can affect the way you think and make decisions
- Biochemical – the heart is involved in the regulation of oxytocin, also known as the love hormone, and dopamine, the motivation and pleasure hormone
- Biophysical – heart rate variability, or the rate at which our heart beats during the day, signals to the brain when we are in periods of stress and arousal vs relaxation
- Energetic – the electromagnetic field produced by the heart impacts our emotional awareness
Given these connections, it is unsurprising that the heart is not only a vital organ, but a symbol of love, wellness, and happiness. In essence, it is involved in our everyday interactions, from how we express creativity, show compassion, and experience pain and healing to the way we respond to stress and connect with the world.
To strengthen the heart-mind connection and maintain a healthy heart, the first prerequisite to self-love, we recommend that you try tools like mindfulness meditation, journaling, daily exercise, and keeping connected with your loved ones. Medicinal herbs are also a great supplement to look after your heart’s health.
9 Herbs for Cardiovascular Health
Cardiotonics
Cardiotonic herbs improve the contraction of the heart muscle and are rich in antioxidants, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, which will protect the heart from oxidative stress. To name a few, normalized blood pressure, improved circulation, are cleared toxic waste from the bloodstream are among the benefits of cardiotonics.
Examples of cardiotonic herbs include:
- Hawthorn
- Linden
- Garlic.
Circulatory stimulants
Circulatory stimulants improve blood flow throughout the body and prevent the build-up of cellular waste by enhancing the delivery of oxygen in the tissues and organs.
Examples of herbs that are considered circulatory stimulants include:
4. Cinnamon
5. Damiana
6. Ginger.
Adaptogens
Adaptogens are a class of herbs that aid the heart’s stress-coping abilities, by regulating the nervous system’s stress response, whilst improving stamina, cognitive function, and immunity.
Notable adaptogen herbs include:
7. Shatavari
8. Ashwagandha
9. Maca
14 Other Herbs for Self-Love
We’ve compiled the most extensive list of herbs for self-love below. Whether for their ability to improve physical health, or nourish your skin, we believe each of those can do miracles for you. Just decide where you are in your self-love journey and which areas of you deserve TLC right now.
1. Calendula
Calendula is a beautiful orange herb that has been used for centuries for its healing properties. Modern research has shown that calendula can help to speed the healing of wounds, reduce inflammation, and fight infections. It has also been traditionally used to treat menstrual cramps and menopausal symptoms. Calendula is said to connect with the solar plexus chakra, which is the energy center associated with self-confidence and self-esteem. When this chakra is in balance, we feel empowered and able to take control of our lives.
2. Rosemary
Rosemary has some excellent health benefits. It can help improve circulation, boost the immune system, and aid digestion. Additionally, this herb can connect with the heart chakra, which is the chakra of self-love.
3. Dandelion
One of the main reasons why dandelion is such a great herb for self-love is its ability to help detoxify the body. Dandelion helps to cleanse the liver and kidneys, which are two organs that play a vital role in detoxification. Additionally, dandelion is a natural diuretic, which means it helps to flush toxins out of the body through urine production. By helping to remove toxins from the body, dandelion can improve energy levels, skin complexion, and digestion. Furthermore, dandelion is a great source of antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and E, which are all essential for good health.
4. Motherwort
Motherwort is one of the best herbs for self-love. Also known as the herb of the mother, motherwort has a long history of use in women’s health. It can help reduce anxiety, improve sleep, steady heart palpitations, and calm the anxious mind, making it a great general tonic for the heart and nervous system. Motherwort is also thought to regulate hormones, promote lactation and ease menopausal symptoms.
5. Sage
Sage has a long history of being used for medicinal and spiritual purposes. It is an antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory herb that can help to improve digestive health, reduce anxiety and stress, and boost cognitive function. It is also a powerful detoxifier, helping to remove toxins from the body and improve overall health. In addition to its many physical benefits, sage is also considered a powerful tool for self-love due to its ability to promote emotional balance and well-being. When used in meditation or mindfulness practices, sage can help to clear the mind and connect with the heart.
6. Lavender
Not only is lavender incredibly fragrant and beautiful, but it also has many amazing health benefits. It can help reduce stress and anxiety, promote restful sleep, boost mood, and relieve pain and inflammation. In addition, lavender is a great herb for skin care. It can help to soothe dryness and irritation, and it even has antibacterial properties. When used topically, lavender can help to promote healing and prevent infection.
7. Chamomile
Chamomile is an effective herbal remedy for anxiety, insomnia, and even depression. It is also rich in antioxidants, making it a great choice for those looking to improve their skin health. Chamomile is also really effective when used in aromatherapy. The essential oil of chamomile can be used in diffusers or added to lotions and creams to help to soothe the mind and body.
8. Peppermint
Peppermint is a refreshing herb with a strong, minty smell. Among its many benefits, it can aid digestion, relieve nausea, and reduce inflammation. It’s also great for mental health, as it can help to improve focus and concentration. When it comes to self-love, peppermint can be used in a variety of ways. You can add it to your bathwater for a relaxing and invigorating experience, or you can make tea with peppermint leaves. You can also use peppermint essential oil in diffusers or massagers. Whichever way you choose to use peppermint, this herb is sure to boost your self-love vibrations!
9. Jasmine
Jasmine is a beautiful and fragrant herb that has many benefits for both physical and emotional well-being. In terms of physical health, jasmine can help to improve circulation, ease respiratory problems, and lower blood pressure. Additionally, it is a powerful antidepressant and can help to soothe anxiety and lift your spirits. Jasmine is a great way to nurture yourself and show yourself some extra care. The scent of jasmine is also said to be an aphrodisiac, making it a perfect herb for self-love and intimacy.
10. Turmeric
Turmeric is widely recognized for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that curcumin, the main active compound in turmeric, can help to reduce inflammation, improve cognitive function, and even decrease the risk of some chronic diseases. What’s more, the aromatic spice is also believed to be a natural mood enhancer. This makes it an excellent herb to add to your self-care routine.
11. Kava Kava
Kava kava is a tropical herb that is native to the South Pacific islands. The herb has a long history of use in traditional healing practices and has calming and relaxing properties. It is often used to relieve stress, anxiety, and tension. In addition to its calming effects and the ability to promote restful sleep, kava kava is also known for its ability to boost mood and promote feelings of well-being. However, kava kava can also cause dizziness, nausea, and liver damage when taken in large doses or over extended periods of time. For this reason, kava kava should be used with caution.
12. Valerian
Valerian has been used to treat a variety of ailments such as insomnia, anxiety, and headaches. It contains a compound called valerenic acid, which is thought to be responsible for its sedative effects. In addition to its use as a sleep aid, valerian is also said to promote relaxation and reduce stress. While similar to kava kava, unlike it, valerian does not appear to pose the same risks associated with prolonged use.
13. Holy Basil
Holy basil is one of the most revered herbs in Ayurvedic medicine. It is considered a sacred plant in Hinduism and is prized for its ability to promote sattva guna, or balance and harmony. Holy basil is great at promoting feelings of well-being and peace, whilst its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties help boost the body’s immunity. Finally, holy basil is a wonderful herb for skincare, as it can help to soothe inflammation and reduce redness.
14. Lemon balm
Lemon balm has a refreshing, citrusy scent and a number of proven health benefits. It has been shown to boost mood, reduce stress, improve sleep, and promote relaxation. It can also ease digestive issues and is a great source of antioxidants and vitamins, making it a valuable addition to any self-care regimen.
How to Use Herbs for Self-Love?
Herbs for self-love can be used in a variety of different ways. Some are great brewed as tea, whilst others can be applied topically as creams or balms.
For example, to use rosemary for self-love, add a few drops of rosemary essential oil to your diffuser or bath. You can also add a sprig of rosemary to your favorite self-care products, like lotions or soaps. Pairing herbs for self-love with self-awareness and manifestation practices, such as daily affirmations is a great way to remind yourself of the wonderful human being you are.
Our favorite method to use herbs for self-love is adding a handful of them to a warm bathtub. Soak in the water for 20 minutes, then visualize yourself surrounded by a field of the herbs you have added to the tub. This field represents the love and confidence that you have within yourself. As you soak in the bathtub, feel the energy enter your body and fill you with peace and strength.
FAQs:
Why is self-love important?
Self-love is so important for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Loving yourself does mean you are being self-indulgent, rather it is a necessity for leading a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life. Our self-love also manifests in the way we treat others. When we have a strong sense of self-love, we are able to respect and nurture the relationships in our lives. We are able to communicate our needs clearly and assertively. We also radiate a positive energy that attracts people to us.
Where does self-love start?
Self-love starts with recognizing the importance of taking care of ourselves. You can take the first steps towards self-love by making sure you nourish your body with healthy food, exercising to keep your body strong, getting enough sleep to restore your energy levels, and taking time out to do things that make you happy.
How do I give myself self-love?
Self-love is about accepting and liking yourself just the way you are, having compassion for yourself, treating yourself with kindness, and respecting yourself. When you love yourself, you make choices that are good for you. You take care of yourself physically by eating right, exercising, and getting enough sleep. You take care of yourself emotionally by managing your stress, handling your emotions in a healthy way, and spending time with people who make you feel good about yourself. And you take care of yourself mentally by staying positive, challenging negative thinking, and setting realistic goals. Self-love takes practice, but it’s worth it. When you love yourself, everything in your life gets better.