For hundreds of centuries, people have used herbs to promote happiness and well-being due to their potential to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, while fostering a sense of calm and a positive mindset. In today’s fast-paced world, where stress and anxiety are common, people see natural ways to enhance their mood and emotional well-being.
In this article, we will explore the top 5 herbs for happiness and joy. We will uncover how these herbs work, their benefits, and how you can use them safely to achieve happiness and emotional balance.
What herbs are good for happiness?
Different herbs target emotional well-being, happiness, and joy in various ways. For instance, certain herbs are known to modulate neurotransmitter activity, thereby improving sleep quality, reducing inflammation in the body, and contributing to a happier mood and a calmer state of mind.
Most of these herbs are used in traditional medicine systems, such as Ayurveda, TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), and Western herbalism.
We have curated a list of the top 5 herbs for happiness and joy below;
1. Kratom
Mitragyna Speciosa, commonly known as kratom, is a tropical plant found in South Asian countries (Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia). It is traditionally used for energy relaxation and mood enhancement.
Kratom contains alkaloids (Mitragynine and others) that stimulate dopamine and serotonin to increase feelings of pleasure and relaxation.
Some kratom strains, such as Red Bali, White Maeng Da, Green Malay, and Red Borneo, reduce anxiety and promote calmness. They are known as the best strains for happiness.
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2. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania Somnifera, is an ancient medicinal herb primarily used in Ayurvedic practices. For centuries, people have used it to help the body manage stress and promote well-being. This herb is classified as an adaptogen.
Ashwagandha lowers your cortisol levels, which is a common stress hormone. It also reduces anxiety and provides mental clarity and relaxation. You can consume ashwagandha in powder or capsule form daily in the morning or early evening.
3. Kanna
Kanna is a natural euphoric herb that has been used for centuries in South African culture to improve mood and reduce anxiety. Its biological name is Sceletium tortuosum.
Kanna works as a natural serotonin reuptake inhibitor to promote euphoria and calmness in the body. It also helps to deal with social anxiety and stress.
You can consume kanna by chewing it raw, which is a traditional method. Otherwise, Kanna extracts and capsules are also available in the market, which promotes convenient dosing.
4. German Chamomile
German chamomile is another gentle yet powerful herb to gain happiness and relaxation. You must have seen people consuming chamomile tea during the day and before sleep to benefit from its calming and mood-stabilizing properties.
German chamomile contains bioactive compounds such as apigenin and bisabolol that interact with GABA receptors to promote relaxation and ease of mind.
This herb also improves digestive health, which contributes to a general well-being, as gut health is connected to your brain and emotional state.
Tip: Make yourself a nice, calm, and happy tea blend by combining chamomile, lemon balm, and a pinch of lavender to boost your serotonin levels.
5. Matcha

You must have heard or seen matcha; it’s all over the internet. Influencers and health-conscious people are consuming it with milk, coffee, chocolate, fruits like strawberries, and much more.
Matcha is a vibrant green powdered tea from Japan. Unlike regular green tea, it provides a sustained energy boost, focus, and mental clarity. Research shows the dynamic duo of caffeine and L-theanine, which reduces stress hormones like cortisol and boosts dopamine levels.
For a natural happiness and mood lift, consume ½ – 1 teaspoon of ceremonial-grade matcha, whisk in warm water, and drink. You can have it with milk, cream, etc.
Other Key Herbs for Happiness
1. St. John’s Wort
St. John’s wort is best for mild depression as it supports and balances serotonin in the body. You can consume brewed tea or capsules. Please consult a doctor before consuming, especially if you are on SSRIs.
2. Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola Rosea has been used as a medicine for centuries. Now it’s also cultivated in Asia due to its numerous benefits, such as mood uplift.
This herb is used to stimulate the nervous system and fight fatigue. It is also considered to be an adaptogen, like ashwagandha.
3. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is another herb that calms nerves and promotes relaxation. You can have lemon balm tinctures or simply brew tea.
How to Safely Use Happiness Herbs?
- Start with a low dose, especially with Kratom and Kanna, as they are stronger.
- Rotate between different herbs; don’t stick to one for a longer period.
- Check interaction with different medications, mainly St. John’s wort.
- We suggest opting for natural means of relaxation that lead to happiness, such as exercise, sunlight, and good sleep.
Final Thoughts: Which Herb is Best for You?
All herbs have different onset times, benefits, and side effects. You should do proper research before selecting the best herb for you. Try kratom, ashwagandha, and kanna for stress relief, euphoria, and relaxation. Experimenting with natural herbs is best, but with caution. Must ask your healthcare provider before consuming any herb for happiness.
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