Chest pains. Loss of breath. Panic attacks.
They’re all conditions associated with feelings of anxiety. If there’s a tough situation taking a toll on your physical and mental well-being, perhaps it’s time to give some natural remedies a try.
In most cases of anxiety today, modern Western medicine will adhere to prescription medications, but according to a report in the 2010 Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, people who use anti-anxiety medications have a 36 percent increased mortality risk.
Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to reduce stress and anxiety, help the body process stress, relax and heal from stressors. Of course, there’s always the risk of buying a poor quality herbal product, so research is a must – know what you’re buying and work with a holistic doctor. To help you out on your search, here are a few herbs that have stood out regarding stress and anxiety:
Chamomile
According to Explore IM from the UCLA Center for East-West Medicine, a Web-based resource facilitating the integration of biomedicine and Chinese medicine, chamomile is commonly used to help reduce insomnia and gastrointestinal disorders. The daisy-like plant that is used to make teas, liquid extracts, capsules or tablets, shows promise in regards to generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
Passionflower
For a stronger remedy, there is passionflower, a plant native to the southeastern United States, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. One study found that patients who were given passionflower before surgery had reduced anxiety and the passionflower did not cause sedation. Supplements are available in capsules or tablets, as well as in liquid extracts.
Lavender
Though many of us use lavender in lotions, bath gels and perfumes, the herb has been used as a remedy for purposes ranging from insomnia and anxiety to depression and fatigue. Research has linked inhaling the scent of lavender with calming and soothing effects. Aromatherapists use lavender in inhalation therapy to treat headaches, exhaustion and nervous disorders.
