Anxiety disorders are on the rise, with a global estimate of 264 million adults suffering in 2017 worldwide. Subsequently, more people than ever are looking into different treatment options in a bid to get better, with many looking towards herbal remedies as an alternative to prescription drugs that can cause several unwanted side effects.
If you too are looking for a natural remedy to keep your anxiety at bay, here are some of the most commonly used, research-backed options that you may want to consider.
Kratom
Kratom is known as a viable cure for anxiety, chronic pain, and even depression. Made from the leaves of the Kratom tree found in Southeast Asia, it has traditionally been used in alternative medicines for decades. Many people have been using the herb to treat their anxiety disorders. While not technically an opioid, it does have similar effects, binding to receptors in the brain to relieve pain. More studies are needed into Kratom and its anxiety healing properties, but researchers have confirmed the herb's sedative and anxiety-relieving effects among users. If you just typed where can i buy kratom in your search engine bar, fret not as you can find many reputed vendors selling this herb in many forms.
Chamomile
A prevalent herb, data shows that the herb's compounds can effectively reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and increase well-being. Most commonly used in tea-form, a 2017 study investigating the impact of chamomile on generalized anxiety disorders found a significant decrease in anxiety scores. The study also showed that 1,500 mg of chamomile extract per day is effective in reducing anxiety.
While generally considered a safe herb, it can increase the risk of bleeding when used in combination with blood-thinning medicines and could potentially cause allergic reactions to anyone with sensitivities to the family of plants that it belongs to, including daisies and marigolds.
2. Valerian
Native to North America and Europe, Valerian contains valerenic acid and valeranon that have long been used to treat anxiety. These compounds help the body relax and enter a calm state to stimulate sleep and are also used to treat insomnia, stress, and muscle tension. Available in tea, tincture, and tablet form, Valerian is safe to use in combination with other anxiety-healing herbs such as passionflower and lemon balm but shouldn't be taken during activities that require you to focus, such as driving, and isn't suitable for children.
It is also vital to note that Valerian shouldn't be consumed during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in combination with alcohol and any other sleep-enhancing drugs.
4. Lemon balm
Research shows that Lemon balm, another traditionally used medicinal herb, can cause anxiety reduction and may even help improve cognition. Well-tolerated, it is considered to be generally safe when used short-term but can cause abdominal pain and nausea. Lemon balm can reduce excitability and nervousness and is often used to treat and improve mood disorders such as depression. Studies show that lemon balm can be an effective treatment for insomnia, with participants displaying a decrease in insomnia symptoms after using the herb every night for four weeks.
**5. Cannabidiol **
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is an active ingredient taken from the cannabis plant, available in tablet, cream, and liquid forms, and has non-psychoactive compounds that may have a calming effect on the central nervous system. Scientists believe that this is because CBD interacts with the serotonin receptor in the brain responsible for regulating anxiety and fear, helping to calm down anxiety-related symptoms.
Researchers evaluating the effects of CBD on 397 adult participants in a 2020 study reported an overall improvement to their quality of life after three weeks of CBD treatment. Participants reportedly experienced a reduction in depression and anxiety symptoms, resulting in improved ability to perform daily functions. It also found that a 300-600 mg dose of CBD significantly reduced anxiety symptoms in adults.
However, researchers have yet to establish standardized dosing recommendations, and the dosage that a person takes to experience relief depends on the product and administration.
6. Passionflower
Several small clinical trials show that the passionflower may be an effective treatment for anxiety and anxiety-related symptoms such as restlessness, with effects comparable to those of the pharmaceutical class benzodiazepines. Passionflower can be taken in tablet form or as a liquid tincture and, commercially, is typically combined with other herbs. While generally considered safe when taken as directed, some studies found that it can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion and should be handled cautiously.
**7. Green tea
**
Green tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine that can reduce anxiety and a rising heart rate and blood pressure. Previous studies show that the herb has calming properties, with anxiety-prone subjects reporting to feel more focused and calmer during a test when taking 200 milligrams of L-theanine beforehand. Green has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for decades. Its therapeutic properties make it an excellent alternative for treating moderate anxiety without adverse side effects such as drowsiness.
Wrapping up
Herbs can make an effective treatment option for anxiety providing benefits and relief from many anxiety-related symptoms, helping those who want to explore natural alternatives to prescription medications.
While more research is still needed, the results from the clinical trials and studies so far show promising results, with many participants reporting a reduction of symptoms and an improvement in their daily functions.
Suppose you are considering taking any herbal alternatives as a treatment for your anxiety. In that case, you must consult with your local physician first, especially if you are currently on any prescribed medication. Remember, some herbs can interact with certain medications, so always talk to a healthcare professional for more advice.
