If you’ve been searching for herbs for stress relief, you’ve probably seen the same names come up again and again: ashwagandha, rhodiola, reishi, ginger, goji berry, schisandra.
And it usually leads to the same question:
Which one is the best? Which one should I try first?
It’s an understandable question to ask. When stress is high, we naturally want something simple—one clear answer that makes everything feel lighter.
But stress rarely shows up as just one thing. Some days it’s racing thoughts. Other days it’s a tight jaw, shallow breathing, or that wired-but-exhausted feeling by mid-afternoon. Sometimes it’s all of the above—changing hour to hour.
That’s why Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has long taken a different approach: formulas, not single herbs to address multi-layered issues.
IN PEACE was created with this formula philosophy in mind. It combines nine TCM-inspired botanicals, traditionally used to support calm and emotional balance during times of occasional stress—especially the kind that builds during busy workdays.
Let’s start by taking a look at why TCM formulas are often a better fit when stress is coming at you from multiple angles and then we can look at some herbs that may help.
Stress isn’t just mental (and you’re not imagining the physical side)
Stress often gets framed as “a busy mind.” But your body feels it too—sometimes before your thoughts catch up. Stress can feel like:
- tightness in the chest or shallow breathing
- tension in the jaw, neck, or shoulders
- restlessness, irritability, or feeling on edge
- midday energy crashes or mental fog
- feeling wired and tired at the same time
- digestive discomfort when things feel overwhelming
This is why a one-herb strategy can feel hit-or-miss. You might be addressing one layer… while the rest of your system is still carrying the load.
Why TCM uses formulas instead of single herbs
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, stress support is rarely approached with one ingredient. Instead, practitioners use formulas—balanced combinations where each botanical has a role.
A formula might include herbs that:
- support resilience when life feels demanding
- encourage emotional ease when stress feels heavy or stuck
- help settle restlessness so you feel more grounded
- harmonize the blend so everything works together smoothly
It’s not about doing more. It’s about being more complete. And it can feel like a relief—because you’re not left trying to combine herbs on your own and hoping you’ve created the right match.
Popular herbs for stress relief (and what they’re known for)
These are some of the most searched-for botanicals in modern wellness conversations, and why people reach for them.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is one of the most well-known adaptogens. It’s often discussed for supporting the body’s stress response and promoting a sense of steadier energy. It is best known for general stress adaptation + calm energy.
Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola is an adaptogen traditionally used to support resilience during demanding seasons—especially when stress feels like constant output with not enough recovery. It is best known for resilience support during high-demand weeks.
Reishi Mushroom
Reishi is revered for its grounding, steady nature. Many people reach for it when they want calm support that feels gentle—not stimulating—often as part of an evening routine. It is best known for: grounded calm + long-term wellness support.
Ginger
Stress can show up in digestion, too. Ginger is widely used to support digestive comfort, which is why it’s often included in blends designed to support the whole body. It is best known for digestive comfort + warming support.
Goji Berry
Goji berries are a staple in Chinese herbal traditions, often used to support vitality and balance over time. They’re not always “calming” in the obvious sense—but they’re deeply nourishing. It is best known for gentle nourishment + foundation-building support.
Schisandra Berry
Schisandra has a long history in Chinese herbalism and is often referenced for supporting steadiness and mental clarity when stress feels like juggling too much at once. It is best known for clarity + focus support under pressure.
Why trying one herb at a time can feel like guessing
This is a common pattern: You try ashwagandha for a few weeks… don’t notice much… switch to rhodiola… add reishi… and still feel unsure. And here’s what we want you to know: that doesn’t always mean you “did it wrong.” It often means stress is multi-layered—and single herbs are single tools. This is something TCM has understood for a long time.
Inside IN PEACE: a TCM-inspired formula for modern stress
IN PEACE brings this formula philosophy into daily life.
Instead of spotlighting one trendy adaptogen or herb, it combines botanicals traditionally used to support calm and emotional balance from multiple angles—so the support feels steadier, not one-dimensional.
- For resilience + mental clarity: Rhodiola Rosea & Schisandra Berry
- For emotional ease + calm: Mimosa Tree Bark & Lily Bulb
- For groundedness + settling restlessness: Radix Bupleuri & Wolfiporia extensa & Fleeceflower Vine
- For nourishment + harmonizing the blend: Chinese Date (Jujube) & Licorice Root
Why this combination matters
Stress can pull you in multiple directions at once—mentally, emotionally, physically. A formula approach supports that reality.
IN PEACE is designed to support calm from more than one angle:
- resilience + clarity for demanding days
- emotional ease when you feel stretched thin
- grounded support when your nervous system feels “on”
- harmony across the blend so it feels balanced, not harsh
A simple calm routine you can actually keep
You don’t need a perfect routine. You need something that meets you where you are—and helps you come back to yourself throughout the day.
Here are a few gentle anchors:
- Morning: water + a few minutes of movement
- Midday: a real lunch break (even brief, even imperfect)
- Afternoon: stand up, soften your shoulders, take a short walk
- Evening: dim the lights earlier, slow the pace, protect your wind-down
This is also where a daily formula like IN PEACE can fit naturally—not as a “quick fix,” but as part of a rhythm you return to.
Because stress doesn’t always disappear overnight. But with consistent support, things can start to feel more manageable—from within.
The bottom line: calm is a practice
If you’ve tried single herbs and still feel like you’re guessing, consider this:
Maybe it’s not that you chose the wrong herb.
Maybe it’s that stress needs more than one answer.
A TCM-inspired formula approach—like IN PEACE—reflects the truth most of us are living: stress is layered, and support should be too.
FAQ: Herbs for Stress Relief
What is the best herb for stress relief?
There isn’t one “best” herb, because stress shows up differently for everyone. Popular options include ashwagandha, rhodiola, and reishi—but TCM traditions often suggest formulas may feel more complete because they support multiple layers at once.
Why do TCM practitioners use formulas instead of single herbs?
Because stress can affect mind, mood, energy, and the body all at once. Formulas combine botanicals with different roles—some support resilience, some support emotional ease, some support grounded calm, and others harmonize the blend.
How long will it take before notice positive results after using herbal support?
You may experience positive results within 20-30 minutes after taking herbal support and you may notice even more positive results with consistent use. Many herbal formulas when used daily can become more noticeable with consistent use over time..
Can I take stress-support herbs every day?
Many people incorporate herbs into daily wellness routines. Follow label directions and check with a healthcare provider if you’re pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or managing a health condition.
What’s the difference between adaptogens and calming herbs?
Adaptogens (like rhodiola and ashwagandha) are traditionally used to support the body’s ability to adapt to stress over time. Calming herbs (like reishi and lily bulb) are traditionally used to support a more immediate sense of ease. formulas often combine adaptogens and other herbs for more rounded support.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.