DIY Natural Anxiety & Stress Tincture That's Easy To Make

Your vanity cabinet probably has all the necessities, including band-aids, anti-inflammatory medications, a thermometer, and some antibiotic ointment, if you are the type of person who prefers to be organized. However, I bet you're missing this remedy.

If you have ever struggled with chronic stress, anxiety, or depression, you understand how these conditions affect every aspect of your life, even if you do not consider them essential.

Stress is more than simply the sensation of overwhelm you get when life gets out of control; when it becomes a regular part of your life, it can have detrimental impacts on your health. Here are some ways that ongoing stress may be impacting you:

Deterioration of Cognitive Function

Prolonged stress disrupts your brain, particularly your memory and judgment. It weakens regions such as the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, which makes it more difficult to focus and remember information. Have you ever entered a room and forgotten why you were there? Does it make sense to read the same sentence over and over again? Did you have trouble remembering names or to-do lists?

That goes beyond simply "growing older" or "being worn out." It is fog in the brain. It can also lead to chronic anxiety, long-term cognitive loss, and ultimately neurodegeneration if untreated. The good news? You can recover your brain. Restoring what stress has harmed and preventing the hidden triggers from destroying your nervous system are crucial.

Immune System Weakness

Stress may be the cause if you get colds or feel exhausted all the time. Prolonged stress weakens your immune system, which makes it more difficult for diseases to spread and for you to get better.

Heart Issues

Stress causes your body to produce more cortisol and adrenaline, which raise blood pressure and heart rate. This raises your risk of heart attacks, strokes, and hypertension over time.

Digestive Problems

Stress can have a devastating effect on your digestive system, causing changes in appetite, bloating, and stomachaches. Stress can exacerbate any digestive disorders you may have, such as IBS.

Sleep Disruptions

Ever feel exhausted but can’t sleep? Chronic stress interferes with your sleep cycle, creating a vicious loop of stress and exhaustion that makes everything feel worse.

Hair Loss

Believe it or not, stress can literally make your hair fall out. High cortisol levels disrupt the stem cells that keep your hair growing, leading to excessive shedding or even bald patches. If your shower drain is full of hair or your brush is pulling out way more than usual, it’s time to take action.

Herbs for the Nervous System

When it comes to stress relief, not all herbs work the same way. The two main types that help with nervous system support are nervines and adaptogens.

Nervines

Nervines are herbs that directly support and soothe the nervous system. They can help with muscle tension, restless thoughts, and even insomnia. Some, like skullcap, work fast, while others, like milky oats, need to be taken consistently over time for lasting effects.

Adaptogens help your body adapt to stress and build long-term resilience. Different adaptogens offer different benefits—some boost immunity, others sharpen focus, and some help balance emotions.

Anxiety & Stress Tincture

One of the easiest ways to use these herbs is in a tincture—a concentrated herbal extract that you can take as needed. This Anxiety & Stress Tincture combines both nervines and adaptogens for maximum stress support.

Key Ingredients:

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): A powerful adaptogen that calms anxiety, promotes restful sleep, and supports cognitive function.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus): A medicinal mushroom known for its brain-boosting effects, helping with focus, memory, and emotional balance.

Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum): An adaptogen that supports sleep, immune function, and adrenal health.

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): A gentle nervine that soothes anxiety, promotes relaxation, and improves sleep.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp dried lemon balm leaf
• 2 tbsp ashwagandha root
• 2 tbsp Lion’s Mane mushroom powder
• 2 tbsp reishi mushroom powder
• 150 ml vodka (80 proof) (see note)

Directions:

• Add the herbs to a clean glass jar.
• Pour vodka over the herbs, leaving about ½ inch of space at the top.
• Seal the jar and shake well.
• Store in a dark place, shaking every few days. Let it infuse for 4-6 weeks.
• Strain out the herbs and bottle the liquid, labeling with the date and ingredients.

How to Use It

For best results, take 1-2 droppers full (¼ - ½ tsp) 1-3 times a day. Start with a lower dose and adjust as needed. The tincture is easy to carry, so you can use it whenever stress hits—before work, before bed, or whenever you need a little extra calm.

Remember, herbs work best alongside a healthy lifestyle. Prioritize good sleep, hydration, movement, and balanced nutrition for the best results.

Note: You do not have to use vodka to make a tincture. You can also make this with a warmed carrier oil, such as olive or coconut, but it will take longer for infusion. You can also use vegetable glycerin.