Growing is part of life, and sometimes that’s not always fun. It involves change, and change can be uncomfortable to us. As we grow, take on more responsibility, and have to manage time better, the symptoms of anxiety seem to creep into our lives more and more. Stress is a part of life, but constantly feeling symptoms of anxiety isn’t healthy. Try these 4 herbal remedies that knock down anxiety symptoms like restlessness, irritability, tension, and impatience.
1 – Skullcap
The skullcap has one of the best reputations for reducing panic attacks and insomnia. It has a minty taste, but it’s more bitter than average. One of the best things about this plant is that it’s completely safe for pregnant women.
2 – Passion Flower
Passion flower has been used over a long period of time as a folk remedy for anxiety and insomnia. Studies have shown that it can have a greater anti-anxiety effect than drugs like benzodiazepine, and mexazolam. It’s even been reported to cause less drowsiness.
The effects on children, pregnant, women, and people with kidney and liver disease has not been established very well.
It can be taken in the form of tea or tincture, but take smaller doses at first because the effects may vary person to person.
3 – Kava
Well designed studies show that Kava herbs do a good job of decreasing symptoms of anxiety, when compared to placebo treatments…..although it was reported to be a small effect.
Around the world there have been about 25 serious cases that have been reported where Kava supposedly caused liver damage. That may sound scary, but the truth is, that’s a VERY insignificant number.
Apparently the FDA got scared so they have issued warnings about using kava, even though there has been no clinical evidence that kava causes liver disease or failure. Most adverse effects seem to be linked to pre-existing liver conditions.
4 – Valerian
This herb is mostly used for insomnia, which is a common side effect of anxiety. In a few studies this herb and valium have been compared to a placebo. The clinical reports basically say that this might not have as great of an effect as other medicinal herbs.
You might not want to take this as your first choice, but don’t count it out. Just FYI….If I were you, I would invest in the pill form rather than the tea. Most people don’t find the smell too pleasing.
Keep in mind that symptoms of anxiety will not be cured by these medicinal herbs. They will just help to manage them.
It’s kind of like having a sore back and taking ibuprofen. The greater problem is probably having tight hamstrings or low quality sneakers. Taking a pill won’t solve that problem.
Anxiety is usually caused by lifestyle factors like not getting enough sleep, financial issues, poor working environment, sedentary lifestyle, etc.
To really fix the situation you need to examine your lifestyle and see where the core of the problem lies. In the mean time you can get some relief with these 4 herbal remedies that knock down anxiety symptoms. If you found this article interesting, please share it on facebook really quick! I bet you’ll also like to know 5 health benefits of spices.
About Adam Pegg
