The past 18 months have had a monumental effect on the mental health of millions of individuals. The stresses of life have been stretched to breaking point, including isolation, job insecurity and losses, bereavement and financial strain. These can all contribute to mental health problems, including depression and anxiety.
Feeling down now and then is normal, with some people experiencing anxiousness at one time or another in response to stressful situations. There are many people who experience ongoing severe feelings of depression and anxiety which can be a sign of an underlying mental health condition. Tackling these thoughts and emotions can be tricky, although there are natural herbs which contain anti-depressive properties to dispel these negative thoughts.
Here are 2 great Chinese herbs which are naturally formulated to help depression and anxiety:
DRIED CAPE JASMINE FRUIT (ZHI ZI SHAN)

Dried Cape Jasmine Fruit (Zhi Zi Shan) are ripe fruits mainly found south of the Yangtze River in China. Zhi Zi (Shan) is harvested from September to November when the fruits ripen. They have a slight smell with a slight sour and bitter taste. Dried Cape Jasmine Fruit (Zhi Zi Shan) is known for its heavily fragrant white flowers and glossy green leaves and is common across the warmer regions. Zhi Zi Shan is native to China, Japan, and Taiwan, but is also found in warm climates around the world today. It is prized for its array of health benefits.
Health benefits of this medicinal herb may assist depression and anxiety by helping to lower blood pressure and help stop nausea and vomiting. Dried Cape Jasmine Fruit has also been prized for its ability to aid restlessness and fight a moderate cold. The fruit itself can be consumed as a food, or can be used in a herbal tea. Some people have used Dried Cape Jasmine Fruit in a variety of culinary recipes, including Gardenia milkshake, chocolate mousse and litchi fruit salad (recipes coming soon)!
DRIED TURMERIC RHIZOME (JIANG HUANG)

Dried Turmeric Rhizome is the dried underground stem of the turmeric plant, also known as Curcuma longa. The root is ground up into the distinctive yellow turmeric powder. Dried Turmeric Rhizome is the main spice used in Indian curries but is also one of the most powerful herbs on the planet. Some studies have proven that turmeric has more advantages than certain prescription drugs.
It is a fundamental ingredient in assisting with certain mental health disorders, including depression and bipolar disorder. The easiest way to include this into your diet is to soak the roots in water first, then grate the herb to be used as a culinary ingredient. Next time you plan a curry night, make sure to include Dried Turmeric Rhizome as part of your essential ingredients!
HOW CAN I GET THESE HERBS?
At Vita, we want everyone to benefit from nutritional products which are all 100% natural and inspired by Chinese herbal remedies, to promote good health. Our products, including Dried Cape Jasmine Fruit and Dried Turmeric Rhizome, have been expertly chosen for you to help you look and feel better – in a natural and effective way.
To explore the full Vita product range, click here. Alternatively, to get access to culinary recipe ideas for your next cooking adventure, check them out here.
If you have any further queries, please email us directly at info@vitaherbalnutrition.com and we’ll be happy to help.