🌿Understanding Stress: How It Affects the Body & How Herbs May Support Wellbeing

A reflection from my Herbal Medicine Diploma studies

Stress is something we all experience, yet its effects on the body can be far more complex than we often realise. As part of my Herbal Medicine Diploma, I’ve been exploring how stress influences different body systems and how traditional herbal approaches may gently support the body’s natural resilience. I wanted to share some of these insights here, in a way that feels accessible and empowering.

How Stress Affects the Body

When we encounter stress, the body activates the HPA axis — a communication pathway between the brain and the adrenal glands. This triggers the release of cortisol and adrenaline, preparing us for “fight or flight.” While this response is helpful in short bursts, chronic stress can place strain on multiple systems:

Nervous System

• Heightened alertness

• Irritability or emotional sensitivity

• Difficulty sleeping or switching off

Digestive System

• Bloating or sluggish digestion

• Changes in appetite

• IBS‑type symptoms

Immune System

• Increased susceptibility to colds

• Slower recovery

• Inflammatory flare‑ups

Musculoskeletal System

• Tension in the neck, shoulders, or jaw

• Stress headaches

Emotional Wellbeing

• Feeling overwhelmed

• Low mood

• “Wired‑but‑tired” fatigue

Understanding these patterns helps us recognise stress not as a single symptom, but as a whole‑body experience.

Herbal Approaches to Support the Stressed Body

(Educational information only — not a substitute for personalised advice)

Herbs have long been used in traditional systems to support the body during times of stress. In my studies, we explore them through categories that reflect their energetic qualities and traditional uses.

Adaptogens

Traditionally understood to support the body’s ability to adapt to stress.

• Ashwagandha — grounding, calming, often used when stress leads to fatigue or poor sleep

• Rhodiola — uplifting, traditionally used for mental stamina and low mood

Nervines

Herbs traditionally used to soothe and nourish the nervous system.

• Lemon balm — calming, supportive for emotional agitation and digestive tension

• Chamomile — gentle, helpful for stress‑related digestive or muscular tension

• Passionflower — traditionally used to support sleep and quieten a busy mind

Carminatives & Digestive Support

Because stress and digestion are so closely linked.

• Peppermint — easing tension and bloating

• Fennel — soothing digestive discomfort

• Ginger — warming and supportive for sluggish digestion

Tonics

Traditionally used to nourish and rebuild after long‑term stress.

• Oat straw — supportive for nervous exhaustion

• Holy basil (Tulsi) — uplifting and clarifying

These herbs are not quick fixes, but gentle allies that may support the body’s natural balance.

Final Thoughts

Studying stress from both a physiological and herbal perspective has deepened my appreciation for how interconnected our systems truly are. Stress isn’t “in the mind” — it’s a full‑body experience. And the more we understand it, the more empowered we become in supporting our own wellbeing.

If you enjoy this kind of educational content, I’d be happy to share more insights from my herbal studies!