Herbal Remedies for Anxiety
63Anxiety comes in two different forms. One form is not as bad as the other and consists of worrying too much and nervousness. The second form is when a person has panic attacks because of stress, some kind of trauma or genetics. Anxiety attacks or panic attacks can make a person feel like they are having a heart attack. It is accompanied by shortness of breath and a feeling of light headedness. There are herbal remedies to help ease the symptoms of anxiety. Make sure to always ask your doctor before using herbs or supplements because although they are all natural they can still have some side effects and can counteract with certain prescription medications.
The tops of the catnip plant are harvested to use as a tea or infusion and sometimes can be used in tincture form with other herbs. Catnip is good to help ease the symptoms of anxiety. Catnip has a gentle carminative action.
Passion flower can be used as a natural remedy to treat anxiety and insomnia. Passion flower can be used to improve concentration and alertness that may be lost due to anxiety. There are some side effects of Passion Flower and they include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness and rapid heartbeat. Passion flower should not be taken with other medications unless a doctor says it is ok.
Valerian is mainly used to treat insomnia and although it has not been proven yet, one study reports that it may be used to treat anxiety. Valerian should be taken an hour before bedtime and can take two to three weeks to start working. Valerian should also not be used for more than three months.
There are some side effects of valerian which include mild indigestion, headache palpitations and dizziness. Valerian can be taken in tea form or liquid extract form. However, most people do not like the smell of valerian so they prefer to take it in supplement form.
Valerian should not be taken with sedatives or antihistamines. Valerian should not be taken with alcohol, and people with liver disease should not use valerian.
Kava:
The herb kava is native to Polynesia and is found to have anti-anxiety effects in people. Kava is also used to treat insomnia. Because of the sedation effects, in high amounts, intoxication can occur.
Kava supplements can cause severe liver injuries and those who decide to use it should consult with a doctor first.
Other herbal and natural supplements for anxiety include calcium, chamomile, magnesium and B vitamins.
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I'm going to try the catnip tea. One of my meds. causes anxiety as a side effect. It's really one I'd rather live without!
Very interesting and useful hub. Thanks for sharing.
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RetailPrincess 18 months ago
Very interesting! St. Johns wort also has properties to reduce anxiety but it is better know for lowering depression.