Herbs for Anxiety

Natural remedies such as herbs are becoming a very popular alternative to prescribed medications for treating anxiety and depression. The most commonly used anxiety medications are benzodiazepines (such as Valium and Xanax). While helping to cope with anxiety they carry a risk of serious side effects and often lead to addiction. Many natural herbs are proven to be just as effective for reducing anxiety, while only have mild side effects and typically are not habit-forming.

As our body reacts differently to natural and prescribed medications, it may take some time to find the right combination and dosage of herbs for anxiety to provide a long-lasting anxiety relief.

Some important herbs for anxiety are:

• Kava Kava (Piper methysticum) has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and lift the spirits. It was proven to reduce depression and anxiety, but unlike powerful tranquilizers it does not reduce alertness. Quite opposite, it helps to improve memory, concentration and vigilance, having both calming and stimulating effect.

• Valerian is one of the widely used herbs for treating anxiety, relieving stress, relaxing muscles and fighting insomnia. It works similar to benzodiazepines calming down the brain’s arousal system. However, valerian has been reported to work faster than most anxiety medications. For its benefits many doctors use valerian to help their patients get off prescribed drugs.

Valerian is recommended for reduction of mild to moderate anxiety, sleep disorders and stress. In ordinary doses it works as a sedative and has no side effect. Although over dosage of valerian can lead to headaches, nausea and stomachache. It is also not advised for pregnant or lactating women, children under 2 years old and in combination with other tranquilizers and painkillers.

• Passion flower is known to alleviate anxiety, insomnia, muscle tension and diarrhea. It also reduces high blood pressure.

• Lavender helps to eliminate such anxiety symptoms as restlessness, loss of appetite, loss of sleep and abdominal complaints. It is one of the main natural panic attack treatments.

• Lemon balm affects the body in two ways – it soothes the nervous system and rejuvenates at the same time, helping to overcome fatigue. It was also proven to reduce high blood and calm digestive system.

• St. John’s wort not only fights anxiety, but also works as an anti-depressant. It helps to calm don’t nervous system and rejuvenate the body.

• Skullcap, motherwort, and catnip are herbs used for chronic anxiety and panic attack treatment. In addition skullcap is believed to support nervous system.

• Chamomile, ginseng and hops are often found in teas and capsules as herbs that help to cope with stress, being powerful natural sedatives.

Other herbs for anxiety are: ashwaganda, california poppy, ginkgo biloba, verbena, feverfew, peppermint and L-theanine (an amino acid derived from Green Tea, which is not the same as Green tea extract!).

Even though herbs can be very effective in reducing anxiety, depression and sleep disorders, it is important to remember that some herbal remedies if used incorrectly can make anxiety worse. If you are currently taking any benzodiazepines, anti-depressants or over-the -counter drugs always consult your doctor, before making any changes in your treatment plan.

Do not discontinue using prescription medication or alter its dosage without asking your doctor’s permission first!