If you're suffering from stress, anxiety or tension, you may have tried many remedies for relief of your symptoms, such as relaxation techniques, psychotherapy, exercise or prescription medications. Herbal remedies may also offer a way to calm your nerves and ease anxiety and tension. Before you use any herbal remedy, you should always consult your doctor, as most herbs are not federally regulated and may cause adverse side effects if not used properly.
Chamomile
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), there are two types of chamomile--German and Roman--that you can use to treat nervous tension, ease anxiety and provide stress relief.
Chamomile has long been used as an herbal remedy for its antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-spasmodic properties. You can take chamomile in several forms to soothe frayed nerves and promote relaxation.
Many relaxing teas made with dried chamomile are available in most grocery and health food stores. To make your own, use 2 to 3 tablespoons of the dried herb per cup of boiling water. Allow to steep for 10 minutes and strain before drinking. You can also use a few drops of chamomile essential oil in a warm bath for stress and tension relief.
Valerian
Valerian root is an herb that has been used for centuries to promote sleep, ease symptoms of stress and anxiety, and calm the nerves. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, valerian may work by increasing the amount of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in your brain. In this sense, it works in a similar way to certain prescription anti-anxiety drugs like alprazolam and diazepram.
You can take valerian in capsule form to alleviate anxiety by taking 200 milligrams 3 to 4 times per day. You can take valerian 1 to 2 hours prior to falling asleep to help promote restful sleep and alleviate insomnia. Valerian tea works in the same way; use 1 teaspoon of the dried root in a cup of boiling water. Allow to steep for 10 minutes and strain before drinking.
Passionflower
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, passionflower has been used in traditional herbal medicine to calm the nerves, ease anxiety and treat insomnia and seizures. It works in the same way as valerian, by increasing the amount of GABA in your brain, which makes you feel more relaxed.
The effects of passionflower are not as intense as those of valerian. However, a study reported by the UMMC states that passionflower was as effective in treating patients with anxiety as the drug oxazepam.
When using the fluid extract, take 10 to 30 drops of passionflower per day. You can also use 1 teaspoon of the dried herb in a cup of boiling water to make a relaxing, anxiety-relieving tea. Drink 3 to 4 cups per day.
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