By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 18, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Stress
Herbal creams for stress are topical treatments infused with calming herbs and essential oils, designed to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Examples include creams containing lavender, chamomile, and passionflower, which have been shown to soothe and calm the mind and body.
These creams can improve lives by providing a natural and non-invasive way to manage stress, promoting better sleep, reduced anxiety, and increased overall well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for stress, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Melissa officinalis
- 2. Valeriana officinalis
- 3. Passiflora incarnata
- 4. Hypericum perforatum
- 5. Matricaria chamomilla
- 6. Lavandula angustifolia
- 7. Ginkgo biloba
- 8. Camellia sinensis
- 9. Tilia x europaea
- 10. Crataegus monogyna
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for stress?
- What ailments similar to stress are treated with herbal creams?
1. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with stress because it contains rosmarinic acid and other bioactive compounds that promote relaxation and calmness.
The herb's natural sedative properties can help reduce anxiety and promote a good night's sleep. Additionally, lemon balm cream's cooling sensation can help soothe and calm the mind and body, providing a sense of tranquility and relaxation. This can be especially beneficial for individuals experiencing stress and anxiety.
Regular use can lead to a more balanced and peaceful state.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with stress.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps alleviate stress by acting as a natural anxiolytic and promoting relaxation by reducing cortisol levels in the body.
- Linalool: A terpene that has a sedative effect on the nervous system, which can help reduce anxiety and stress by promoting a sense of calmness and relaxation.
- Geranial: A terpene that has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help reduce stress and anxiety by promoting a sense of relaxation and improving sleep quality.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for stress.
- Leaves: Known for their high concentration of rosmarinic acid, which has a calming and anti-inflammatory effect.
- Stems: Similar to leaves, stems also contain rosmarinic acid, contributing to their stress-relieving properties in creams.
- Roots: Roots of Melissa officinalis are believed to have a soothing effect, making them a popular choice for stress relief creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for stress.
- Harvest melissa officinalis leaves by picking fresh green foliage from mature stems in the morning.
- Clean the leaves by gently washing them with distilled water to remove dirt and debris.
- Infuse the melissa officinalis leaves in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
- Mix the infused oil with a beeswax and shea butter base in a 1:1:1 ratio to create a smooth cream.
2. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with stress because of its unique ability to promote relaxation and calmness.
The herb contains valepotriates, which interact with the brain's GABA receptors, producing a soothing effect on the nervous system. This leads to a decrease in anxiety and tension, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
As a result, people who use valerian creams often experience improved mood, reduced stress levels, and enhanced overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis creams that help with stress.
- Isovalerenol: This sesquiterpene alcohol helps with stress by acting as a GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptor agonist, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
- Valerenic acid: This sesquiterpene acid helps with stress by acting as an inhibitor of GABA reuptake, allowing GABA to accumulate in the brain and promoting a calming effect.
- Valerenol: This sesquiterpene alcohol helps with stress by acting as a GABA receptor agonist, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, similar to isovalerenol.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make creams for stress.
- Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis are used to make creams for stress due to their high concentration of valerenic acid, a compound with sedative and calming properties.
- Leaves: Valeriana officinalis leaves are used to make creams for stress due to their content of valerenic acid and other active compounds that contribute to their calming effects.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Valeriana officinalis are used to make creams for stress due to their high concentration of valepotriates, which are known for their anxiolytic and sedative properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for stress.
- Harvest valeriana officinalis roots and clean them thoroughly with distilled water for at least 2 hours.
- Combine 100 grams of dried valeriana officinalis roots with 500 ml of carrier oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture at 60°c to 70°c for 4 hours or until the roots have broken down.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container to separate the roots from the oil.
- Whip 50 grams of beeswax and 50 grams of shea butter into the oil mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency.
3. Passiflora incarnata
Passiflora incarnata, also known as maypop, creams helps with stress because they contain a high concentration of the active compound passiflorine.
This natural sedative works by interacting with the brain's GABA receptors, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. As a result, Passiflora incarnata creams can help alleviate symptoms of stress and promote a good night's sleep.
Additionally, their calming properties can soothe the mind and body, making them a popular natural remedy for stress relief and promoting overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata creams that help with stress.
- Harmane: Harmane is a beta-carboline alkaloid that helps with stress by inhibiting the activity of stress-inducing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
- Isovitexin: Isovitexin is a flavonoid that helps with stress by having anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and sedative effects, which can contribute to a sense of calmness and relaxation.
- Hesperidin: Hesperidin is a flavanone glycoside that helps with stress by having a calming effect on the nervous system and reducing the production of stress hormones like cortisol.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make creams for stress.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high content of flavonoids and other active compounds that have a calming effect on the nervous system.
- Stems: The stems are used for their flavonoid and alkaloid content, which helps in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
- Fruits: The fruits are used due to their rich content of vitamins, minerals, and flavonoids that contribute to the calming and soothing effects in stress relief creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for stress.
- Harvest fresh passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves in the early morning to ensure optimal potency and freshness.
- Dry the passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves in a single layer at 50c for 24 hours to preserve their medicinal properties.
- Combine 200 grams of the dried passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves with 400 milliliters of jojoba oil in a double boiler.
- Simmer the mixture at a temperature of 40c for 6 hours to infuse the oil with the passiflora incarnata's medicinal properties.
- Strain and filter the mixture through a cheesecloth and pour the herbal infused oil into a glass container for storage.
4. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with stress because it contains hyperforin and hypericin, active compounds that support the brain's natural mood-regulating processes.
The cream's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation by soothing the nervous system. Additionally, it may help regulate the body's response to stress, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
As a natural remedy, it offers a non-invasive approach to managing stress and promoting overall mental health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with stress.
- Hyperforin: A phenolic compound that helps with stress by acting as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, increasing serotonin levels in the brain and promoting a sense of calmness and relaxation.
- Hypericin: A naphthodianthrone derivative that helps with stress by inhibiting the reuptake of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which can help regulate mood and reduce anxiety.
- Flavonoids: A class of plant-derived compounds that help with stress by acting as antioxidants, reducing inflammation, and modulating the body's response to stress, which can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for stress.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids, such as hyperforin and hypericin, which are known for their anxiolytic and stress-relieving properties.
- Flowers: The flowers of Hypericum perforatum contain a higher concentration of flavonoids, making them a popular choice for stress-relieving creams.
- Stems: The stems of the plant also contain flavonoids, which contribute to their anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory effects, making them useful for stress relief creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for stress.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh flowers of hypericum perforatum at peak flowering stage early morning to ensure highest potency.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a warm oven at 50-60 degrees celsius for 2-3 hours to preserve medicinal properties.
- Steep 10 grams of dried flowers in 100 milliliters of carrier oil like coconut or olive oil for 2 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the oil mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container to remove plant material.
- Mix 10 grams of the infused oil with 20 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of shea butter in a double boiler to create a smooth cream.
5. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with stress because of its calming and soothing properties.
The active compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, have a sedative effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. When applied topically, chamomile creams can help to calm the mind and body, reducing muscle tension and promoting a sense of calm.
This can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing stress and anxiety, helping to promote a restful night's sleep and overall sense of well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with stress.
- Apigenin: Apigenin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, helps with stress by acting as an anxiolytic agent, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
- Matricaria chamomilla flavonoids: The flavonoids present in Matricaria chamomilla, including apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin, help with stress by modulating the body's inflammatory response and reducing oxidative stress.
- Luteolin: Luteolin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, helps with stress by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation and calmness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for stress.
- Flowers: They are rich in apigenin and other flavonoids, which contribute to their calming and soothing effects.
- Seeds: They contain chamazulene, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and stress-relieving properties.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for stress.
- Infuse 250ml of oil with 5g of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in a double boiler for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container discarding the solids.
- Mix 20g of beeswax and 10g of shea butter in a saucepan over low heat stirring occasionally.
- Combine the infused oil with the melted beeswax and shea butter mixture stirring until well combined.
- Pour the cream mixture into a clean container and let it cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes.
6. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with stress because of its calming and soothing properties.
The active compounds in lavender, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, promote relaxation and reduce anxiety levels. These creams can help slow down heart rate and lower blood pressure, creating a sense of calmness and tranquility.
By applying lavender creams to the skin, individuals can experience a calming effect, leading to improved sleep quality and reduced stress levels, promoting overall well-being and relaxation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with stress.
- Linalool: Linalool acts as a natural anxiolytic, reducing anxiety and stress by promoting relaxation and calming the nervous system.
- Linalyl acetate: Linalyl acetate has a sedative effect, helping to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting a sense of calmness and improving sleep quality.
- Limonene: Limonene has a mood-boosting effect, reducing stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and improving overall mental well-being.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for stress.
- Flowers: They are used due to their calming and sedative properties, which help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Leaves: They contain similar properties to the flowers, including anti-inflammatory and antiseptic compounds that help soothe and calm the mind and body.
- Buds: They are used for their delicate, floral scent and potential stress-relieving properties, which are often more pronounced than in the mature flowers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for stress.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers in the morning to preserve their potency and fragrance.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a warm oven at 100°f for 2 hours to prevent moisture damage.
- Steep 2 tablespoons of dried flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at 160°f for 2 hours to create a strong infusion.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to remove excess plant material.
- Mix 1/4 cup of the infused oil with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of coconut oil to create a smooth and stable cream.
7. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with stress because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The extract has been found to improve blood flow to the brain, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. Its ability to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress also contributes to its stress-relieving effects. Additionally, ginkgo biloba creams may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and fatigue, promoting a feeling of well-being and balance in the body.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to promote mental clarity and reduce stress.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with stress.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help reduce stress by acting as antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals in the body and protecting against cell damage, which can contribute to feelings of anxiety and fatigue.
- Bilobalide: This terpene has a calming effect, reducing stress by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters such as GABA and glutamate, which play a role in regulating mood and emotional response.
- Quercetin: A type of flavonoid, quercetin has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate stress-related inflammation in the body, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for stress.
- Leaves: They are often used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have been found to have a positive effect on stress and anxiety.
- Seeds: They are used in some stress relief creams due to their rich content of ginkgolic acids and bilobalide, which have been known for their potential stress-relieving properties.
- Roots: They are sometimes used in herbal remedies for stress relief due to their potential adaptogenic properties and high content of bioactive compounds.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for stress.
- Mix 20g of ginkgo biloba extract with 100g of beeswax in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture for 10 minutes while stirring occasionally to ensure even melting.
- Add 50g of sweet almond oil and 20g of coconut oil to the mixture.
- Stir the mixture for 5 minutes to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Pour the mixture into containers and let it cool and solidify for 30 minutes.
8. Camellia sinensis
Camellia sinensis, also known as tea, creams helps with stress because it contains a wealth of antioxidants and flavonoids.
These compounds have been shown to promote relaxation and calmness by reducing cortisol levels and inflammation in the body. The soothing properties of Camellia sinensis creams also help to quiet the mind and promote a sense of balance, making it an excellent natural remedy for managing stress and anxiety.
Regular use can lead to a more peaceful and centered state of being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis creams that help with stress.
- Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds help alleviate stress by reducing inflammation and improving mood by increasing the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin.
- Theaflavins: These flavonoids exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help mitigate stress by protecting the body from oxidative damage and promoting relaxation.
- L-theanine: This non-protein amino acid has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing stress levels by promoting relaxation, improving sleep quality, and regulating the body's response to stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make creams for stress.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high content of camellia oil, which has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties beneficial for stress relief.
- Seeds: The seeds are used because they contain saponins, which are known for their ability to calm and relax the skin, reducing stress and anxiety.
- Flowers: The flowers are used for their calming and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for stress.
- Harvest 1 cup of camellia sinensis leaves, clean them thoroughly with water, and dry them in a dehydrator at 95°f for 6 hours.
- Combine 1 cup of dried camellia sinensis leaves with 4 cups of distilled water in a large pot and bring to a boil for 10 minutes.
- Steep the mixture for 30 minutes, then strain it through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
- Combine 1/2 cup of the camellia sinensis infusion with 1/2 cup of distilled water, 2 tablespoons of beeswax, and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Stir the mixture continuously until it thickens and reaches a temperature of 180°f, then pour it into a glass jar and let it cool.
9. Tilia x europaea
Tilia x europaea, also known as lime, creams helps with stress because of its calming properties.
The extract of the Tilia flower contains flavonoids and terpenoids, which have been shown to have a sedative effect on the nervous system. The cream can help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, making it an ideal remedy for individuals experiencing stress and anxiety.
By applying the cream topically, individuals can experience a sense of calm and tranquility, helping to alleviate stress and promote a restful night's sleep.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia x europaea creams that help with stress.
- Terpenes: These compounds help reduce stress by promoting relaxation, improving mood, and exerting anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects through their interaction with the brain's GABA receptors.
- Alkaloids: These compounds contribute to the stress-relieving properties of Tilia x europaea by acting as a natural anxiolytic and sedative, helping to calm the mind and body.
- Flavonoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help mitigate the physical and emotional effects of stress, promoting overall well-being and resilience.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lime used to make creams for stress.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Flowers: They have a calming effect and are often used in herbal teas and creams to promote sleep and reduce stress.
- Buds: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that help to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, making them useful in stress-relieving creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lime for stress.
- Harvest fresh leaves of tilia x europaea in the morning when dew is still present.
- Dry the leaves in a single layer at room temperature for 2-3 weeks.
- Steep 50g of dried leaves in 500ml of carrier oil at 70-80 degrees celsius.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard.
- Mix 20% of the herbal extract with 80% of a moisturizing base and 1% of.
10. Crataegus monogyna
Crataegus monogyna, also known as hawthorn, creams helps with stress because of its adaptogenic properties.
The active compounds in hawthorn, such as flavonoids and oligomeric proanthocyanidins, help the body adapt to stress by regulating cortisol levels and promoting relaxation. These compounds also have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing feelings of anxiety and promoting a sense of well-being.
As a result, hawthorn creams can provide relief from stress and promote a balanced state of mind.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna creams that help with stress.
- Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds have antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate stress by reducing oxidative damage and promoting relaxation.
- Triterpenoids: This compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help mitigate the negative impacts of chronic stress on the body and promote overall well-being.
- Phenolic acids: As a potent antioxidant, chlorogenic acid can help scavenge free radicals and reduce inflammation, contributing to a sense of calm and reduced stress levels.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make creams for stress.
- Leaves: Used for their adaptogenic properties, which help the body adapt to stress.
- Flowers: Used for their sedative and calming effects, which help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Buds: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help mitigate the negative effects of stress on the body.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for stress.
- Harvest 2 pounds of crataegus monogyna leaves and flowers on a sunny morning in late summer.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks.
- Infuse 1 cup of dried plant material in 4 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids after 2 hours of preparation time.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of the infused oil with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter to make the cream.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for stress?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with stress is Lavender and Chamomile.
Lavender cream calms the mind and body, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. Chamomile cream soothes the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting a sense of calm. When combined, they create a powerful synergy that can help alleviate stress and promote a peaceful night's sleep.
This natural duo can be applied topically to the skin, providing a safe and effective way to manage stress and promote overall well-being.
What ailments similar to stress are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to stress/creams.html">stress/creams.html">stress that are treated with herbal creams are anxiety, insomnia, and skin irritations such as eczema and acne.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like lavender, chamomile, and passionflower help soothe the mind and body, reducing feelings of anxiety and promoting relaxation.
Topical applications of these herbs can also calm irritated skin and reduce inflammation.