Over 30 years of experimenting with herbs has taught me one big truth, there’s a special group of plants that always deliver results.
When I think about the intersection of the nervous system and immune system, I picture two connected batteries.
If one drains, the other follows.
Stress, overwork, poor sleep, pain, and even emotional overwhelm can zap both systems.
That’s why I look for herbs that restore calm and resilience, helping my body recharge from both sides.
Here’s how I like to use them depending on how I’m feeling:
When I’m feeling drained or low:
- Rehmannia – for full-on depletion days when even the couch feels ambitious
- Rhodiola – for recovery after stress, workouts, or emotional overload
- Add Schisandra berry if irritability joins the mix
When I feel like I’m getting sick:
- Propolis – Beekeeper’s Naturals throat spray is my go-to at the first tingle
- Astragalus Complex – from Standard Process (Astragalus, Echinacea, Eleuthero)
- Elderberry – homemade elderberry tinctures are my favorite
When I’m anxious, wired, or can’t settle:
- Ashwagandha – a grounding adaptogenic herb (I like Ashwagandha Complex from Standard Process/MediHerb)
- Ease CBD Full Spectrum (CBD Dog Health – yes it works for humans too) – with turmeric + frankincense for sore, tense days
- Lemon Balm + Passionflower – perfect tea combo for winding down
- Holy Basil (Tulsi) – ideal for evening calm
- L-theanine – green tea extract for fast-acting relaxation
- Tranquil Mind Elixir (Sahale Botanicals from Tacoma, WA)– passionflower, lemon balm, feverfew blend
For immune + nervous system balance:
- Lion’s Mane – restores focus
- Turkey Tail – strengthens immune function
- Reishi – calms the nervous system and supports longevity
- Cordyceps – boosts energy + immune defense
And yes… Bryan and I both use CBD Dog Health’s Clarity, Ease & Vitality blends, they’re formulated for dogs but made with the exact adaptogenic herbs I’d blend myself if I had the resources to grow all the things!
- Clarity → Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, Bacopa, Ashwagandha
- Ease → Full spectrum CBD with turmeric + frankincense
- Vitality → Ashwagandha + Astragalus combo for immune strength
You and your dog can share them, a true 2-for-1 in my book!
I’d love to know:
What herbs do you reach for when you’re stressed, tired, or run-down?
Hit reply and share your favorites, I’m always curious what’s working for you.
Stay curious well charged,
Dr. Jannine Krause
