Herbal Treatment For Anxiety
Anxiety can manifest in a variety of forms, from the butterflies in your stomach prior to a show to the jitters that you feel when you go to the dentist. It's normal to feel nervous at times but chronic anxiety could cause health issues.
Herbal treatments can ease anxiety symptoms. Like prescription medications, it is important to consult with your physician prior to adding herbal supplements to your regimen.
Chamomile
Chamomile, a flowering herb, is used to treat a broad variety of health issues, including anxiety and insomnia. It's also used to treat skin issues and is mild sedative. Chamomile can be a useful way to reduce stress and anxiety. It can also help with digestive problems. It is believed to relieve gastroesophageal acid-reflux disease and the symptoms of indigestion. It also helps in reducing stomach spasms which cause diarrhea.
Numerous studies have proven that chamomile can improve sleep and reduce anxiety-related symptoms. A small study from 2016 in the journal Phytomedicine found that chamomile was effective as a long-term treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The researchers found that chamomile lowered the severity of GAD symptoms, but did not completely eliminate these symptoms. It was also found to improve symptoms of PTSD and phobias.
This herbal remedy has been used for ages and has a relaxing effect on the body and mind. It can be consumed as a tea or in capsules, and can help those suffering from insomnia and other ailments such as depression and gastrointestinal issues. It is a natural treatment for anxiety and can be used in conjunction with other herbs, such as valerian.
The effects of chamomile may be adverse that include drowsiness and headaches, and it can interact with other medications. It's essential to talk to your physician prior to taking herbal remedies together or beginning any new medication, particularly in the case of prescription medications.
Passionflower is another herb for anxiety. It is used to treat a range of illnesses. It is a stronger herbal remedy than the chamomile and has been proven to ease insomnia and reduce anxiety. It's also effective in helping to treat nervous disorders and headaches, as well as blood-related maladies like hypertension. It is frequently used in conjunction with Chamomile to treat more severe forms of anxiety.
Like chamomile, this plant can be used in teas or capsules. You can buy it at most major health stores and online. It's also believed to reduce bone loss and improve immune system function, although these claims haven't been substantiated with scientific evidence.
Passionflower
Passionflower has been utilized by herbalists since ancient times to ease tension and promote tranquility. It is a mixture of phytochemicals that include flavonoids as well as alkaloids. Sterols, maltol and sterols, all of which are calming for the muscles, the nervous system and the mind. Nine clinical trials have demonstrated that it works in decreasing anxiety. These studies looked at the effects of Passiflora (Passionflower) and preparations that are used to reduce anxiety during medical procedures such as spinal anesthesia and dental surgery as well as the quality of sleep. In the studies that were studied drops, syrups, and tablets containing passionflower extracts were used.
The effects of the plant that induce sedation may be due to its flavonoids. Animal studies have shown that these compounds bind to receptors in the brain and increase the amount gamma aminobutyric acid. This neurotransmitter inhibits certain brain signals, creating the feeling of calm. Passionflower has also been shown to alleviate symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder in certain studies.
Many health food stores and websites offer it as capsules or tea. It can be taken anytime of the day, however it's recommended to consume it an hour before bedtime. Tea can be prepared using dried or prepackaged herbs in water that is boiling. It is best to let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Some people might experience side effects when taking high doses of passionflower like dizziness or confusion however, they are usually light and short-lived.
To avoid these adverse effects You should select your supplements carefully and stick to the recommended dosages. In general, you should not exceed 3.5 grams of extracts of passionflower per day for a period of two days. A higher amount could result in dangerous side-effects like ataxia or difficulty moving. This herb is not recommended for pregnant women as it can trigger uterine contractions. The herb should not be taken in conjunction with certain medicines, and it could interact with alcohol. If you are taking any medication, you should consult with your physician prior to trying this herb.
Valerian
Valerian root is a well-known herbal remedy for sleep however, it can also relieve anxiety. It is a mild sedative that increases levels of GABA in the brain, which helps reduce anxiety and stress. The herb may also improve sleep quality as well as reduce menstrual cramps and stomach pain and relieve tension in the muscles.
Researchers aren't sure what valerian does, but believe it could interact with neurotransmitters to decrease stress and anxiety. It is thought to work by binding gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain, which causes them to become more active. This is similar to how prescription drugs like alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium) function.
The plant contains volatile oil and lignans that may boost serotonin levels, adenosine levels and other chemicals that control the state of mind and sleepiness. Also, it contains valerenic acids, which inhibit GABA breakdown and boost GABA levels. This creates a relaxed state. In a number studies, it has been shown that valerian/hops is effective as a sleep aid. One study included an experiment that was double-blind and placebo-controlled. people with insomnia were given 400 mg of the valerian/hops formula, or a placebo. The treatment enhanced the participants' perceptions of sleep, and also reduced their sleep latency.
Although the research is promising however, more research is needed to determine the reasons behind why and how it could be effective. Many studies use small amounts and inconsistent dosage regimens, making it difficult to generalize results. The herbs can cause drowsiness. It is best to avoid taking the herbs while driving or engaging in dangerous activities.
Speak to your doctor before taking any herbal supplements. It is also important to ensure that you're purchasing quality supplements and herbs from reliable companies. You should be aware that certain supplements and herbs haven't been thoroughly tested. Always read the labels and stay clear of products not regulated by the FDA. If you still experience anxiety-related symptoms, you might be interested in psychological counseling (psychotherapy) that can teach you how to cope to ease your symptoms.
St John's Wort
St John's wort, also called Hypericum perforatum, is an herb that has antidepressant properties. It helps relieve mild to moderate depression symptoms, and some people suffering from those conditions may also have anxiety. It's not been proven to be effective in treating anxiety disorders in isolation. St John's is also known to reduce the effectiveness of certain drugs, including birth control pills, medicines used to prevent organ transplant rejection and certain heart medications. Consult your physician before you take it.
St John's Wort is available in herbal teas and capsules. It's best to buy it from a trusted retailer and use it under doctor's supervision. It is not recommended for pregnant women, children or elderly people. It could cause side effects like nausea, vomiting rapid heartbeat, diarrhea and skin rashes for some people. If you experience any adverse effects, stop taking St John's Wort and consult with your doctor.
In addition to its effects on mental health, St John's wort is used to treat a variety of illnesses, including fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and pain that runs down the sciatic nerve in the leg (called neuropathic pain) as well as burns, shingles and irritable bowel disorder. It can also aid in quitting smoking cigarettes and ease menstrual issues, like constipation and cramps.
IamPsychiatry suggest that St John's wort may improve mood for people who don't suffer from a mental health condition. It's not clear whether this is due to changes in how people manage emotions or if it is due to an effect such as improving memory.
There is evidence that suggests St John's herb can ease some of the symptoms of anxiety disorders, such as tension and feelings of being overwhelmed. St John's wort may also aid in the treatment of social phobia and obsessive compulsive disorder however more research needs to be done.