What the herbal wellness trend says about Gen Z and what it means for you

Not long ago, wellness meant green juices, gym memberships, and the occasional meditation app. But now, the herbal wellness trend is quietly reshaping what self-care looks like, and Gen Z is leading the charge.

They’re swapping synthetic for natural, quick fixes for rituals, and burnout culture for something slower, softer, and plant-powered. It’s less about perfection and more about presence. And while the trend may have started with twenty-somethings on TikTok, its roots and benefits run much deeper.

Curious about what this new wave of wellness could look like in your own life? Keep reading to explore what it’s all about and how to make it work for you.

From trend to transformation: how herbal wellness is redefining self-care

Gen Z is driving a surge in herbal wellness, with platforms like TikTok amplifying the trend. The hashtag #herbalremedies has garnered over 1.2 billion views on TikTok as of July 2025, reflecting a growing fascination with natural solutions.

According to Google Trends, searches for terms like “herbal remedies” and “adaptogens” have spiked globally by over 35% since early 2024, particularly among 18- to 24-year-olds. The McKinsey 2025 Future of Wellness survey notes that 56% of Gen Z in the U.S. now consider wellness a “very high priority,” outpacing older generations with a strong focus on natural and preventive care.

What’s fueling this movement?

For Gen Z, it’s a blend of seeking balance in a high-stress world, reducing reliance on pharmaceuticals, and embracing a return to nature. The popular “clean girl” aesthetic think that minimalist skincare, green juices, and earthy apothecary vibes also plays a role, merging wellness with visual appeal. TikTok makes these practices accessible, with creators sharing recipes for herbal teas or DIY skincare using ingredients like chamomile and turmeric.

This isn’t just about health, it’s a lifestyle statement rooted in authenticity, balance, and sustainability.

Why this matters

Gen Z’s herbal obsession highlights something timeless: a desire for holistic, intentional self-care that older generations may have traded for fast-paced routines or quick fixes. Their focus on prevention and natural remedies reflects a broader awareness of how daily habits shape long-term health.

 Interestingly, McKinsey also reports that while 44% of Gen Z struggle with motivation to exercise, they’re more likely to explore herbal solutions or mindfulness practices to manage stress. This proactive mindset is a gentle reminder to pause, reset, and reassess our own routines.

These practices have a long history, originating from systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, and are now being adapted for contemporary life. For many, this is a chance to revisit proven techniques and customize them to address everyday challenges, such as managing stress, boosting energy, or enhancing focus without relying solely on caffeine or medication.

Reclaiming your routine: small shifts that make a big difference

Start with awareness, not overhaul

Wellness doesn’t require a full lifestyle reset. Gen Z’s approach emphasizes awareness, tuning in to your body and making small, sustainable changes. Start by noticing how you feel after eating, sleeping, or spending time on screens.

Adjusting your sleep routine, adding more whole foods, or taking tech-free breaks might do more than you expect. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s consistency. In fact, 82% of U.S. consumers now consider wellness a top priority, according to McKinsey.

Simple daily practices that support balance

Inspired by Gen Z’s holistic wellness mindset, here are a few habits to explore:

1. Stay hydrated: drinking water supports energy and focus.
2. Walk in natural light: a 15-minute walk in the morning can help regulate your circadian rhythm and lift your mood.
3. Breathwork breaks: simple techniques like 4-7-8 breathing help lower stress. Apps like Calm or guided TikToks make them easy to try.
4. Anti-inflammatory foods: berries, turmeric, ginger, and leafy greens are linked to reduced inflammation. Harvard has a great overview on this.
5. Natural compounds: some people include ingredients like ginseng for energy or bacopa for focus.

These practices aren’t rigid rules, they’re gentle invitations. A wellness routine should feel intuitive, not overwhelming.

Herbs as a tool, not a fix

Herbs and adaptogens like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil have become TikTok-famous for their calming and energizing potential. Some studies suggest adaptogens may help regulate cortisol levels, promoting stress resilience.

For example, this 2019 study found that ashwagandha may reduce anxiety in some individuals. But let’s keep it real: herbs aren’t magic bullets. They work best as part of a broader lifestyle that includes rest, movement, and proper nutrition. It’s less about chasing trends, and more about tuning in consistently, and with curiosity.

Wellness that grows with you

Gen Z’s herbal wellness trend reminds us that health isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s personal, evolving, and deeply tied to daily intention. Their approach, balancing mindfulness, nature, and community, offers valuable lessons, regardless of age.

 No matter if you are 25 or 55, the takeaway is evident: true wellness arises not from extremes, but from straightforward habits that honor your current self. Start where you are. Wellness will grow with you.