More and more individuals are looking into herbal remedies for anxiety. Such great interest in herbal remedies for anxiety is justified. After all, many of the drugs that are being used to treat anxiety cause a number of side effects that may even be more debilitating than the anxiety symptoms themselves. Not only that, these drugs can be addicting. How many times have we heard or read stories of famous celebrities who have died due to an overdose of prescription medications? It is only natural that an anxiety patient should look for healthier ways by which he or she can treat her symptoms.
Herbal remedies for anxiety are classified under two types. The first type is natural sedatives. These are herbs whose main action is the promotion of central nervous system relaxation. The second type of herbs is adaptogens. These herbs promote strengthening and better adaptation of the body to greater physical or emotional stress. Some herbs may even possess both sedative and adaptogen characteristics.
Let us take a look at some of the herbal remedies being used to treat anxiety today…
1. Kava kava root = Arguably, kava kava root is THE most effective herb for treating anxiety. Studies have shown that it is very effective in relieving the symptoms that accompany such major anxiety disorders as generalized anxiety disorder, adjustment disorder, agoraphobia, and other specific phobias. It also helps in regulating mood and other emotional processes, promotes relaxation of the deep muscles of the body, and aids in sleep regulation. In fact, kava kava root is more effective than tricyclic antidepressants and benzodiazepines because it does not produce tolerance problems. Sadly, however, kava kava root is not available in some countries because of the finding that it can cause liver damage.
2. Passion Flower = Next to kava kava root, passion flower has been receiving rave reports from scientists in the UK as a great anti-anxiety herbal remedy. Although it is considered a natural sedative, passion flower will not make a patient drowsy or sleepy, thus making it the best herb to use while working during the day. Instead of inducing sleep, it promotes emotional balance. This makes the patient less prone to suffering from extreme changes of emotion as well as from intermittent attacks of nervousness and panic.
3. Valerian Root = Much like passion flower, valerian root is a natural sedative. But, unlike the abovementioned herb, valerian root is a mild tranquilizer. It is not advisable to be taken while working during the day, before driving, or before operating heavy machinery. Valerian root has been helpful in regulating sleep, thus preventing attacks of insomnia and nighttime anxiety.
4. Ginkgo Biloba = A popular herb being used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ginkgo Biloba for anxiety helps regulate mood and prevents attacks of depression, due to improved blood circulation to the brain. However, because of its effects on the blood, it is not advisable to take Ginkgo Biloba if you have been diagnosed with a bleeding disorder.
Discover other great herbal remedies for anxiety today!
