Herbs to Help Anxiety

Anxiety, a physiological state characterized by excessive worry, may cause muscle tension, feelings of restlessness, fast heartbeat, troubled breathing, upset stomach, fatigue, headache, irritability and insomnia. In moderate to severe cases, anxiety can interrupt daily life. While scientists don't know exactly what causes anxiety disorders, they believe that environment and genes may play a part. Numerous prescription drugs exist for treating mild to severe anxiety, though several herbs may also help individuals seeking a more natural approach. Always talk to your doctor if you suspect you have an anxiety disorder and before taking any new herbal supplement.

Passionflower

Passionflower, a traditional calming herb used in the Americas and Europe, may help relieve anxiety. Healers have used the herb to treat insomnia, stress and anxiety for hundreds of years. Today, herbalists still recommend the herb for treating anxiety-related conditions. A study published in the October 2001 edition of the "Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics" found that passionflower extract worked effectively to manage generalized anxiety disorder. Researchers noted that the herb worked as well as Oxazepam, a common drug prescribed for anxiety. In addition, the drug caused a much higher incidence of job performance impairment than passionflower extract. For the best results, take 45 to 60 drops of passionflower extract per day diluted in water or juice.

Kava Kava

Kava kava, a traditional herbal remedy for treating depression, insomnia and nervous disorders, may also provide some benefit to sufferers of anxiety. A study published in the August 2009 edition of "Psychopharmacology" found that kava produced significant anxiolytic activity in patients experiencing generalized anxiety and raised no safety concerns at the dosage and duration studied. The herb appeared equally effective in treating anxiety coupled with depression. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 100 to 200 mg of the herb two to four times per day, though they warn against taking kava for more than a few days at a time. In rare cases, the herb may cause liver damage. Take with caution and always consult a qualified medical practitioner before self-treating with any herb.

Valerian

Valerian, a widely used herbal treatment for insomnia, may also provide help for anxiety sufferers. A study published in "Phytomedicine" in 2009 concluded that valerian caused a significant reduction in anxious behavior in rats compared to the animals given ethanol. In light of this evidence, researchers suggested valerian as a potential alternative to traditional anxiety drugs. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 150 mg of the herb 2 to 3 times per day. Do not take valerian if you suffer from liver problems or currently take prescription medications. Pregnant and nursing women should also avoid the herb.

Lemon Balm

In the book "Quick Access Patient Information on Conditions, Herbs & Supplements," Integrative Medicine Communications recommends the use of lemon balm, also known as Melissa officinalis, for treating anxiety associated with depression. For the best results, drink 3 to 4 cups of lemon balm tea per day. Make the tea by steeping 2 tsp. dried lemon balm leaves in 1 cup boiling water for 15 minutes, straining and drinking immediately. If you don't have access to dried lemon balm leaves, purchase a lemon balm tincture and take 10 to 20 drops four to six times per day to relieve anxiety symptoms.