Stress Relief – The Best Herbs for Anxiety
Are there any so-called “anxiety herbs?” In a word, yes. There are many herbs that have been known to man for 100′s of years and several of them have been useful in treating stress and anxiety.
Herbal treatments are less expensive than prescription medications and offer a cost effective alternative to drugs. Herbs for anxiety treatment also have fewer side effects and the side effects they do have are usually much less severe than their drug counterparts. That’s because herbs are milder. Of course, this also means they work more slowly and take more time to be effective.
That’s not to say there are no side effects. Every chemical action must also have a reaction (side effect) and every body reacts in its own way to herbs and other supplements. So you must be careful with any supplement you take. That’s why I recommend that you not take any herbal remedy without first running it by your doctor or pharmacist. Now let’s talk about the anxiety herbs themselves.
Valerian
Valerian has long been known as primarily an aid to deep, restful sleep. However it’s calming effects can be used during the day as well. Small doses during the day can help control the nervous, anxious feelings you can get when faced with today’s stressors.
Kava
Kava comes from the South Pacific but is now used throughout the world. In Europe it’s used often as an anxiety treatment. It’s also used effectively to combat insomnia. It’s even used to improve concentration and focus.
St. John’s Wort
One of the oldest anxiety herbs known to man, St. John’s Wort has been used for over 2000 years. While it’s quite effective at reducing small to moderate anxiety, it also comes with more pronounced side effects than other herbal remedies. In particular, it can interfere with other drugs that you might be taking, so you need to exercise more care when using this herb.
Passion Flower
Passion Flower is so named because early pilgrims to the new world thought it resembled the crown of thorns and the nails on the cross of Christ. When it was first cultivated it was found to assist with digestion. Later, its natural sedative effects were discovered. Today, it is an effective calming herb.
Wrapping Up
These herbs for anxiety have been around a long time. Their properties are well known and they’re readily available in most health food stores. You can find them in liquid form, capsules, or as teas. So you have a lot of choices to pick from. Keep in mind that you may have to try more than one or two to find out what works best for you.
Capsules are the easiest to take while the extracts may be the most flexible; you can add them to just about any of your meals or beverages. Teas can be very flavorful and can give you more enjoyment. But whatever you choose, you’ll be getting some serious help from these anxiety herbs, help that can ease your anxiety and stress.
