Supporting GABA with Herbs

Since I am an herbalist, I should probably talk a little bit about herbs occasionally. This is for those of you out there who were wondering what an herbalist was doing talking about GABA without mentioning herbs for two whole posts. I was getting around to it, but I was laying the groundwork and wetting the stage for the grand finale—herbs. Let's get into it and discuss

the amazing array of botanicals that are available to help support our GABA pathways in a myriad of ways.

It blew my mind when I found out that herbs have GABAergic properties that can either increase GABA activity in the body or support the function of GABA receptors. I use many of these herbs to help support both gut health and neuro health. They are invaluable tools to finding balance in holistic wellness. Let's discuss the GABAergic herbs and the ways they can help in your routine to support overall well-being.

GABAergic herbs are plants that either influence the production of GABA or enhance its activity in the brain and body. GABA plays a crucial role in calming the nervous system, reducing stress, and promoting relaxation.

These herbs can:

• Increase the production of GABA

• Enhance the binding of GABA to its receptors

• Improve the function of the enteric nervous system (the gut's own nervous system), which is influenced by GABA signaling.

By supporting GABA, these herbs help address both neuro issues (like anxiety, depression, and insomnia) and GI issues (such as bloating, IBS, and digestive discomfort).

GABA is crucial for maintaining a balanced, calm nervous system. Its primary role is to inhibit neural activity, preventing excessive excitation and maintaining emotional and cognitive stability. When GABA levels are imbalanced, either low or high, it can lead to some of the following issues:

• Anxiety: Insufficient GABA activity is often associated with heightened anxiety and stress.

• Insomnia: Low GABA levels can make it difficult to relax and fall asleep.

• Mood Disorders: Imbalances in GABA levels may contribute to depression and other mood-related issues.

  
  

GABAergic herbs can help with these neuro-health concerns by:

• Increasing GABA activity, which allows the brain to better regulate itself.

• Reducing the overactivity of the nervous system, which is often triggered by stress or anxiety.

• Enhancing the body's ability to relax and restore balance.

Since GABA is known to support a balanced, relaxed nervous system, GABAergic herbs can help mitigate the effects of stress on the gut by promoting relaxation, supporting digestion, and reducing inflammation.

Let's dive into some herbs that are helpful for GABA

1. Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis)

Valerian root is widely known for its calming effects on the nervous system. It works by inhibiting the breakdown of GABA and increasing its availability in the brain. This results in a calming effect that can also support restful sleep. It is good to be aware that for a small percentage of the population, Valerian can have the opposite effect. Use with caution and know your side effects and interactions if you take medications. It is available as tea, tincture, or capsules, typically taken before bed.

2. Kava Root (Piper methysticum)

Kava is renowned for its ability to reduce anxiety and stress. It enhances GABA receptor activity and leads to deep relaxation and stress reduction without impairing cognitive function. Kava might help with digestion by reducing anxiety, which in turn prevents stress-induced gastrointestinal symptoms such as cramping or irregular bowel movements. Caution should be used when taking this herb, significant side effects and interactions are noted in the literature, one of which is the potential for liver toxicity. Kava is typically taken as a tea, capsule, or tincture. Micronized Kava is nice because it dissolves easily in liquid.

3. Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)

Passionflower is another calming herb that has been shown to increase GABA receptor activity, making it effective for reducing anxiety and promoting sleep. Passionflower is typically consumed as a tea or tincture, Passionflower can be taken before bed to encourage relaxation and reduce digestive stress.

4. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Lemon balm is a nervine that has calming effects on both the nervous system and the digestive system. It has mild GABAergic properties, helping to relax the muscles of the digestive tract and reduce anxiety. Lemon balm can be beneficial for digestive issues like bloating, gas, and indigestion, which are often worsened by stress. It may also help with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Take it as a tea, capsule, or tincture. Lemon balm is pretty safe and can be taken throughout the day for its calming and digestive benefits.

5. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Chamomile has gentle GABAergic properties, which help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. It’s also known to help improve sleep quality. As a digestive bitter, Chamomile is often used to relieve digestive issues like bloating, indigestion, and gas. Its ability to relax the muscles of the digestive tract can soothe spasms and cramping. It is commonly consumed as tea, but it is also available in tinctures and capsules. It makes a lovely glycerite to give to children.

GABAergic herbs offer a powerful and natural way to support the body’s GABA activity. These amazing herbs (and others) can calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and promote relaxation, leading to alleviating the symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, and digestive disturbances caused by stress. Whether you're dealing with stress-induced GI issues or looking for a natural way to manage neuro health concerns, GABAnergic herbs like valerian root, kava, passionflower, and chamomile can be valuable additions to your wellness routine.

As always, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before introducing new herbs into your regimen, especially if you’re on medication or have preexisting conditions. Incorporating these herbs into your life, however, can support your brain and gut, enhancing both your mental and digestive well-being.