There are a number of herbs or herbal supplements on the market that are very effective in aiding relaxation and combating the negative impacts of stress on the body.  Before I present these to you however, I'd like to add my personal disclaimer here.  While the herbs that I've listed here are safe to use, even in the long term, there are a few herbs that can be toxic or have negative side effects if taken for an extended period of time.  Some herbal supplements can also negatively interact with prescription medications, so it always a good idea to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any herbal supplement.  I've linked to some additional safety advice on the use herbs here.

That being said, please don't let it discourage you from trying these, if you have need for them.  As long as you follow the safety precautions (which you should do with anything you take, including over the counter medications and vitamin supplements), you will be ok.  One of the mildest yet most effective herbs for aiding in relaxation is chamomile. Chamomile is readily available in tea form at just about any grocery store and has a very calming and sedative effect (it's best to drink Chamomile tea in the evening before bedtime).  Chamomile is also good at aiding with digestion, which often becomes a factor during times of prolonged stress.  Peppermint tea is another good herbal tea for calming the stomach and aiding with digestion.

For insomnia with tension in the neck and shoulders, I recommend Valerian root.  This is a little harder to find, but it is available in pill form at most drugstores.  You can also find it in tincture form or as a loose herb (which you can make into your own tea if you have a tea infuser at home) at many health food stores or herbal supply stores, as well as online. Lemon balm (which is also harder to find) is also good for tension combined with aches and pains. Feverfew or willow bark are both effective for tension headaches or migraines brought on by stress.  Other herbs that are helpful in aiding relaxation (and are best used as an infusion in tea form) include hops, catnip and skullcap. Incidentally, I will be doing an in depth series on herbs (which will include how to make infusions and tinctures, as well as the various properties of herbs) in the near future, so stay tuned!

Ginsing is another great herbal supplement which aids in rebuilding the immune system after prolonged periods of stress.  It also increases stamina and concentration.  I've linked to an article listing some other great herbal remedies for relaxation and stress here.  Well, that's all I have for tonight.  I think I'll go make some chamomile tea!  Until next time, relax and have a great day!