Mood & Mental Health

PTSD & Trauma Recovery

Support nervous-system recovery from PTSD, complex trauma, acute fright, and chronic hypervigilance with adaptogens, neurotransmitter-supporting nutrients, and remedies traditionally used for shock and sustained fear.

Prevention

Key nutrients: Omega-3 (EPA), magnesium, vitamin D, B-complex (especially B6 and folate), zinc, vitamin C, NAC, l-theanine.

Eat regularly: Wild salmon, sardines, pasture-raised eggs, leafy greens, berries, dark chocolate, nuts, seeds, fermented foods, bone broth.

Trauma-focused therapy (EMDR, somatic experiencing, IFS) is the foundation — supplements support but never replace it. Daily nervous-system regulation practices (breathwork, vagal-tone exercises, cold exposure, walking in nature) compound over months.

Ashwagandha

HerbStrong evidence

300–600 mg KSM-66 daily for 8–12 weeks — lowers cortisol, improves sleep, and reduces hypervigilance in chronic stress and PTSD.

Saffron

HerbStrong evidence

30 mg standardized extract daily — multiple trials show antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects comparable to SSRIs for mild–moderate symptoms.

Omega-3 (high EPA)

OtherStrong evidence

2–3 g EPA/day — clinical evidence for reduced PTSD symptom severity and improved emotional regulation.

NAC (N-acetylcysteine)

OtherModerate evidence

1200–2400 mg/day — modulates glutamate; clinical trials show benefit in PTSD, OCD, and addiction (which often co-occur with trauma).

Magnolia bark (honokiol)

HerbModerate evidence

250–500 mg 1–2×/day — calms anxiety and supports sleep without sedation; supports GABA and lowers cortisol.

Holy basil (tulsi)

HerbStrong evidence

300–600 mg extract or 2 cups daily — adaptogen that smooths the stress response and supports emotional resilience.

Rescue Remedy (Bach flower)

HerbTraditional use

4 drops under the tongue as needed during acute distress, panic, or triggering moments — traditional emotional first aid.

Aconitum napellus 200C (homeopathic)

OtherTraditional use

3–5 pellets during or shortly after acute fright, panic, or near-death experiences — leading homeopathic for the lingering effects of sudden terror.

Kali Phosphoricum 6X (tissue salt)

MineralTraditional use

Schüssler 'nerve salt' — 4 tablets 2–3× daily for nervous exhaustion, anxiety, and emotional depletion after trauma.

A note of caution. Natural doesn't mean risk-free. Herbs and supplements can interact with medications, affect pregnancy, or worsen certain conditions. Speak with a qualified clinician before starting a new regimen, especially if you take prescriptions.