Herbal Remedies for Anxiety
Many people suffer from anxiety disorders. While it is normal to experience some anxiousness, when anxiety starts to affect your everyday life it may be due to a disorder. Some common symptoms are feeling tense, being on edge, irritability, inability to concentrate, impatience, and restlessness. When these symptoms occur regularly for no apparent reason it may affect your everyday life.
There are prescription drugs available to treat anxiety, but many people prefer to go a more natural route. Sometimes things such as acupuncture, massage therapy and relaxation techniques can be helpful. There are also herbal remedies may help when dealing with anxiety.
Some of the more common anxiety herbal remedies are:
Valerian- This herb has traditionally been used to treat insomnia, but may be helpful when treating anxiety as well. It is available in a tea form as well as capsules.
Kava- Kava is native to Polynesia. It has shown to have anti-anxiety characteristics. One potential side effect however is liver damage. In fact, the FDA has issued an advisory to consumers about supplements containing kava and potential liver damage.
Passionflower- The herb passionflower works similarly to benzodiazepine drugs that are often prescribed for anxiety.
GABA- Gamma- Aminobutyric Acid- This amino acid is known to have a role in the physiology of anxiety. Certain prescription drugs work by affecting the GABA receptors found in the brain. However, it is not certain how much affect GABA supplements have on the brain.
Aromatherapy- Essential oils can be added to diffusers, massage oils and bath to decrease anxiety and promote relaxation. Lavender is used most often. Some others that are also helpful are bergamot, geranium, cypress, rose, ylang-ylang, and sandalwood.
Before beginning any new medication or herbal remedy your doctor should be consulted. Anxiety disorders should not be taken lightly. Some herbal remedies may have adverse affects with other medications or conditions.
