Anti-Anxiety Herbal Remedies

Anxiety is a disorder that affects people of all ages. Whether one suffers from chronic or acute anxiety, its manifestations are disturbing--even frightening. A variety of herbs are available that can address the physical causes of anxiety. (Note: Not all herbs are appropriate for all people. Always consult a physician or other health-care professional before using herbs to treat any disorder.)

Significance

Herbal remedies are attractive options to treat anxiety, which has the power to stop a person in his tracks and preclude any chance for a productive and happy life. For people who prefer not to take chemical medication or who want to complement an anti-anxiety prescription regimen, certain herbs have properties that can help ease the symptoms of the condition.

Function

Some herbs, such as St. John's Wort, settle the nervous system. Herbs like Valerian and Skullcap help sufferers sleep. Still other herbs--fennel, for example--treat stomach upset caused by nervousness. Stress associated with anxiety can cause headaches, from which Feverfew can provide relief. An important group of herbs address the free-radical damage caused by stress.

Features

Bilberry, Gingko Biloba and Milk Thistle neutralize free radicals. Catnip, chamomile and Kava Kava are part of a group of herbs that aid relaxation and can help prevent panic attacks. (Caution: Avoid Chamomile if you are allergic to ragweed, and do not use it for extended periods of time.) Taking Valerian root and Skullcap before bedtime is recommended to aid sleep. They also can help prevent panic attacks. Meadowsweet tea or extract eases headaches caused by stress.

Never take Feverfew or Meadowsweet if you are pregnant.

Fennel, Lemon Balm and Willow Bark have properties that relieve stomach problems, such as abdominal tension.

Benefits

Herbs are affordable and are safe in most cases. Perhaps the greatest benefit of herbs (when they work) is that a person is not forced to rely upon pharmaceuticals, which have short-term negative side effects and, in some cases, unknown long-term effects. An associated benefit of using herbal remedies to treat anxiety is that the sufferer can achieve a sense of empowerment by knowing the properties and ingredients of the treatments she uses.

Considerations

Although many people turn to herbs to treat anxiety disorders, herb manufacturers cannot make health claims. Any evidence of success is not supported nor recommended by the government. Medical treatment may be indicated; if so, take it under consideration. Warnings that are associated with particular herbal remedies should be heeded. People with anxiety disorders are advised to investigate possible chromium deficiency and the potential of using Selenium as a mood elevator. The best advice is to find an alternative health-care professional or a traditional M.D. who is open to alternative therapies.

Resources

• Herbal Remedies for Anxiety
• Herbs for Anxiety
• Herbal Medicine for Anxiety