Women are built for change—we cycle monthly and transition through life’s seasons, including menopause. But change isn’t always comfortable. Shifting hormones, changing bodies, and unpredictable moods can feel unsettling, uncomfortable, and confusing, sometimes creating anxiety about our bodies and health.
Growing up, I often felt confused about health and how to support it. Building a relationship with herbs has strengthened my connection with my body and helped me feel grounded. Herbs are tangible allies, offering real-time support to help us navigate change. When our health feels out of our control, working with herbs is a tangible way to bring us back to ourselves.
Working with Our Bodies Through Menopause
Health changes can bring uncertainty, and uncertainty often fuels stress and anxiety. Each person’s health anxieties are rooted in unique experiences. Herbs shine here because they are also unique—offering many avenues of support when options feel limited.
Working With Herbs
Emotional Support – Herbs foster calm, relaxation, and mental clarity.
Grounding Rituals – Preparing tea or taking tinctures creates routines that are intentional and mindful.
Physical Support – Herbs nourish cells, tissues, and organ systems in many ways. For example, some herbs support the hormones related to stress, while other herbs relax and strengthen the nerves themselves.
Targeted Action – Herbs can address specific concerns. If menopause-related anxiety centers on cardiovascular health, we can create a formula to support the heart and circulation.
Wood Betony: an Ally to Anxiety and menopause
Wood betony (Betonica officinalis) is a grounding herb that eases tension, relaxes the body, and soothes the nervous system, making it a wonderful ally for stress and menopause. It has an affinity for the gut, particularly the vagus nerve and solar plexus, helping foster a sense of rootedness. Ideal for those who feel “heady” or hold tension in the neck and shoulders, it brings a stabilizing energy. Earthy and nourishing, it makes a wonderful daily tea and blends well with other herbs.
Andie Inscoe, MS, WHC is a clinical herbalist and certified women's health coach through the Integrative Women's Health Institute. Andie takes a whole-body approach, blending herbal remedies with lifestyle changes to support her clients during menopause. Schedule a free 20-minute strategy call to connect with Andie here.
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