Napiers - Herb and Plant Remidies

This is not a new problem! For centuries people have felt low energy and low mood in the winter months. This is especially so in our northern climates, with long nights and the sun low in the horizon. Traditionally herbalists have made up lotions and potions to keep the spirits up in the form of herbal tonics, uplifting oil blends and comforting herbal drinks.

Herbalists have used herbs such as
Scullcap used for centuries to relieve anxiety and moodiness
Passionflower to aid sleep and uplift the mood
Lemon balm can be drunk as a refreshing and uplifting tea.
Oats were used (especially in Scotland) both as a food (porridge) and as a medicine. Oats act as a tropho-restorative to the nervous system. This means that they help to restore it back to the original state.
St John’s wort is one of the best known herbs to beat the winter blues. Clinical trials have shown that this herb relieves mild to moderate depression. Available in tincture (liquid) and tablet form, this herb has become one of the UKs best selling herbal products.

The product that used most in Napiers Clinics was developed in 1860 by Duncan Napier. He prescribed it to deal with stress and depression. We have access to his sales records and he sold double volume of this product in the winter months. And as he said, in his turn of the century mail order catalogue, ‘when the whole world seems dull, and you just want to sit down and cry, when the stresses and strains of modern living get on top of you’… that was the time to take his Nerve Debility Tonic, now known as Scullcap, Oat and Passionflower Compound.

Scullcap, Oat and Passionflower Compound contains over 20 different herbs, including Scullcap, Oats, Passionflower, Jamacian dogwood, Limeflowers and Valerian.

Other products that can help:

Vitamin B Complex: This is the vitamin that the body needs in times of stress.

Essential Oils: Some uplift the mood, especially Bergamot, Lemon, Orange. These can be used in the bath or in an oil burner.

Other Tips: Begin each day by standing in front the lightest window in the house and allowing as much light as possible to reach you. Get out at lunch time each day and have a half hour walk – this is when there is the most light available and you can get maximum benefit.

DEE ATKINSON, MNIMH, MCPP