Kava Alternatives

Kava kava is an herb that has been used for centuries in the Pacific Islands. It is known for its anti-depressant, anti-anxiety and sedative properties; it may help you to feel relaxed and calm. However, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, there is growing concern that kava may cause liver damage. Although you still can purchase kava in the United States, it has been taken off the market in many other countries. If you have previously taken kava, you may be searching for a safer, healthier alternative. Before taking any herbal supplement, you should consult your physician.

St. John's Wort

According to the National Institutes of Health's Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, St. John's Wort is an herb that has been used for hundreds of years to treat mental disorders and as a sedative for pain. It can provide you with a mood-boost and help to alleviate some of the symptoms of anxiety and depression. If you use it correctly, St. John's Wort generally has little or no side effects. St. John's Wort may be as effective or better than prescription anti-depressants, according to Dr. Linda Page in her book "Stress & Energy: Reduce Your Stress & Boost Your Energy."

Valerian

Valerian has been used for thousands of years to alleviate insomnia, anxiety and feelings of tension and restlessness. According to the UMMC, valerian may work to promote sleep and decrease anxiety by increasing the levels of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is an amino acid that produces feelings of calm and relaxation in the brain. You can take a valerian supplement to help you to sleep or to counter feelings of anxiety. Take 200 milligrams three or four times per day. Valerian is considered to be safe and non-toxic, but when taken in large doses, it has the potential to cause side effects such as increased drowsiness or sleepiness during the daytime.

Lavender

Lavender has been used in traditional herbal medicine for its anti-anxiety, anti-depressant and mood-lifting abilities. According to the UMMC, lavender has sedative and soothing effects that also may help to alleviate insomnia. To benefit from lavender's mood-elevating and stress-relieving properties, you can use the herb in dried form as an essential oil. To make a relaxing tea, add one or two teaspoons of the dried herb to one cup of hot water, allow to steep for 10 minutes and strain before drinking. Add up to 10 drops in a warm bath before bedtime to help promote more restful sleep.