Medical herbalists have quite a wide range of herbs to choose from in cases like these and as always, the choice made will be on an assessment of your particular presentation, but here are a few examples. In cases where there is nervous exhaustion, herbs like the humble and ubiquitous Oat (Avena sativa) might be used as a nervous restorative (Actually a simple bowl of porridge each morning can do wonders for you -oats are a good healthy and sustaining food - porridge will stave off those mid-morning hunger pangs, it may help lower your cholesterol, and as the saying 'sowing your wild oats' indicates, has a traditional reputation as a pick-up for your love life for both men and women - through its oaty support for the nervous system and its other properties).
Herbalists may also use herbs such as Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) as a nervous tonic herb and mild sedative, where there is obvious mental restlessness. Adrenal support is often included as part of the herbal medicine, as where there has been a prolonged stressful state, then the adrenal glands need some help. There are a number of herbs that might be used, Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is one, although caution is definitely needed with this herb - definitely not one for self-treatment, as it can have harmful effects if used inappropriately, Rehmannia glutinosa is another, that is often used as part of an overall strategy as support for the adrenals. Rhodiola rosea, may also help where there is need for a tonic for the immune system and through its adaptogenic qualities a possible need to help the body respond and cope better with environmental, physical and emotional stressors.
This information is meant for educational purposes only and not intended as a guide to self-treatment. You should always seek professional advice. Remember that herbs can interact with other drugs and may be contra-indicated if you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant or lactating. Take care when using wild plants or any herbs, that you have the correct species from a reliable source.
Catherine Schofield MNIMH Herbalist Cheshire Herbs and Herbal Medicine