Anxiety, a common problem for many people, is a disorder characterized by constant worry and nervousness, sometimes associated with poor brain health. Medication is often required, and there are a number of strategies you can use to reduce anxiety symptoms, from exercise to deep breathing. You can also take herbal remedies that can help reduce anxiety symptoms due to their brain-strengthening properties. These herbal formulas include Valerian root, St. John’s wort, Lemon balm, and Holy basil. Try one or all, and let us know which one worked for you! If you’re still not sure which herb is best for you, read on for some key herb recipes to help alleviate anxiety.
Valerian root
This is a natural plant used to treat anxiety and it also promotes better sleep. Despite its numerous benefits, valerian root should be used with care. It has been shown to interfere with melatonin and other sedative medications. It should also not be taken with alcohol or melatonin. It may cause paradoxical insomnia in some people. You should also consult a doctor before using valerian root for anxiety. You should also consult a pharmacist or herbalist before taking this herbal remedy.
St. John’s wort
The use of St. John’s wort depends on the severity of your symptoms. If your symptoms are worse than usual, you might need a higher dose than normal. The same herb can be used in tea or capsules for anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia. In case of milder symptoms, you can combine it with other herbs such as valerian root, hawthorn, green oats, passion flower, and passion fruit to treat anxiety.
Holy basil
Among its many benefits, holy basil can help to reduce blood sugar levels, curb cravings, and stabilize mood. It is possible to treat anxiety naturally by taking an herbal supplement or using the leaves as tea. Holy Basil is rich in three phytochemicals called ocimumosides A and B. These compounds have anti-stress properties, reducing levels of corticosterone and creating positive changes in neurotransmitter levels in the brain. In lab studies, holy basil also reduced stress parameters.
Lemon balm
The herb lemon balm has been used as a traditional remedy for calming and soothing the nervous system. It is available in many forms including dried leaves, capsules, tinctures, and extracts. Its anti-anxiety effect is believed to be due to flavonoids and terpenes, which are antioxidants found in the plant. The leaves and roots of lemon balm are a delicious addition to a tasty summer beverage, and are often used to relieve insect bites, sore throats, and wounds.
Chamomile
One of the best herbs for anxiety is chamomile, which has been used for centuries to treat various afflictions. Chamomile is an herb that can reduce anxiety. It’s loaded with antioxidants and has been shown to reduce inflammation, which may reduce the risk of anxiety. Its active constituent apigenin can be found in chamomile extract and influences GABA levels in the brain. As such, chamomile can help alleviate mild to moderate anxiety. This herb can help you sleep better, reducing anxiety symptoms. It has a low side effect profile, and it can help you feel relaxed and refreshed.
Passionflower
If you are suffering from anxiety and are not sure how to cure it, you might want to try passionflower. This flower contains an alkaloid known as harmine that can help you relax. It also affects the enzyme MAO, which breaks down happy hormones and regulates sleep. By inhibiting MAO, passionflower helps the hormones stay in nerve fibers longer, thereby reducing the level of anxiety. Traditionally, passionflower was used in Europe as a cure for hysteria and anxiety. Today, however, it is widely used for its benefits on anxiety and insomnia.
Kava kava
Although it may be able to help people reduce their anxiety symptoms, kava should be taken in moderation. In some cases, the herb may cause sedation and even loss of consciousness. If you are taking any other medications or are on a strict medication regimen, kava should be avoided as it can interact with them. In addition, kava and diuretics should not be taken together as they can lead to dehydration and oversedation. Before starting kava treatment, make sure you discuss your plan with your physician.
Ashwagandha
Several herbal supplements can help you deal with the symptoms of anxiety. Some of these products contain a natural plant extract called chamomile, and others are synthetic. While synthetic extracts may be less potent than herbs, they are still powerful. Start with a low dose and increase as tolerated. Ashwagandha is a proven herb for reducing stress and the stress hormone cortisol. However, more studies are needed to determine if it’s an effective herb for anxiety.
Red Ginseng
For centuries, people have used ginseng as a natural healer, adaptogen, and rejuvenator. Today, most modern societies do not depend on herbal remedies for critical illnesses. Stress is a common part of our lives, and the repetitive nature of some occupations results in physiological stress responses that are damaging to our health. Chronic stress promotes anxiety, depression, and panic disorders.
Lavender
Everyone experiences periods of apprehension from time to time. However, when anxiety is overbearing and interferes with daily tasks, it may be an indication of a serious condition. Such individuals suffer from generalized anxiety disorder, in which they worry constantly about various things. Even the most basic tasks can become difficult because of their high levels of anxiety. Lavender is beneficial for treating nervousness and restlessness, as well as other symptoms related to anxiety.
At last, please remember, natural doesn’t always mean safe. If you’re considering taking any herbal supplements to treat anxiety, talk to your doctor first, especially if you’re taking other medications. Interactions between some herbal supplements and certain medications can cause serious side effects. More severe anxiety often requires medication or psychological counseling (psychotherapy). Some herbal supplements taken for anxiety can make you feel sleepy, so it may not be safe to take them while driving or doing dangerous tasks.
