As a new school year begins, children are presented with the challenge of acclimating to a new grade and teacher while adjusting to a structured classroom after a carefree summer.
Many find it difficult to focus and still their bodies. What stress for those little minds and bodies! As always, herbs can help. With this extract, we are looking to support the brain to focus while calming the mind and body.
Lemon Balm is a gentle and calming nervine that helps ease restlessness and over excitability that makes it difficult to feel grounded. It aids in memory and concentration. It uplifts the spirit when stress and anxiety make it difficult to feel centered. It aids in physical symptoms of stress such as a nervous stomach and tension headaches.
Tulsi is both a nervine (calms nerves) and adaptogen (helps the body adapt to stressors) helps ease stress and anxiety while aiding in sharpening clarity and grounding into clarity.
Rosemary is a circulatory stimulating herb with upward movement. This means it has an affinity for blood flow to the brain aiding in focus and memory retention. It also helps clear the mind and sharpen the senses while helping reduce nervousness and tension.
If additional nervous system support is needed, consider adding milky oats and/or chamomile.
Deciding which menstruum to use for extracts children consume is a personal choice. Below are recipes to make this blend into a glycerite or tincture. A glycerite has a sweet taste and limited amounts of alcohol. If you prefer a stronger extract, you could make this into a straight tincture.
M A K E
GLYCERITE
6 tsp lemon balm
3 tsp tulsi
3 tsp rosemary
1-2 tsp vodka
6 tbsp glycerin
2 tbsp distilled water
Blend herbs in a coffee grinder.
Put in a 4oz canning jar. Add vodka 1/2 tsp at a time until damp, but not wet.
Cover and let rest for 24 hours.
Add glycerin and distilled water to the jar. Use a chopstick or knife to blend well.
Infuse for four weeks, shaking every few days.
Strain and rebottle.
N O T E S
*Ensure the glycerin you use is organic or non-GMO.
*Stored in the refrigerator, a glycerite can be used for up to a year.
*You can strain your herbs through a mesh sieve lined with an unbleached coffee filter, a French press or potato ricer.
M A K E
TINCTURE
6 tsp lemon balm
3 tsp tulsi
3 tsp rosemary
Vodka
4oz canning jar
Pour herbs into jar. Fill the jar with vodka. Use a chopstick or knife to thoroughly mix ingredients. Cover with a lid.
Steep for 4 weeks, shaking every few days.
Strain and bottle.
For educational purposes only.
Not intended for medical advice.
Always consult your physician.
Purchase herbs by visiting Mountain Rose Herbs!