Anxiety can present itself as a minor feeling of stress or unease. In more serious instances it can develop into a full-blown disorder capable of emotionally crippling a person. Many factors contribute to anxiety, but certain herbal medications have been shown to alleviate its symptoms somewhat. Herbal remedies should only be used under the guidance of a licensed health care professional to avoid adverse interactions with current treatment.
Passionflower
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that passionflower has a history of use in the Americas and Europe as a calming herbal remedy useful for treating anxiety and insomnia. The effects of the herb might derive from an increase in gamma-aminobutyric acid in the brain. This chemical reduces certain brain cell activities producing a relaxing effect. Passionflower can be taken as a tea, infusion or tincture. The leaves, flowers and stems are used. Passionflower can interfere with certain medications due to its calming effect, so check with a physician before taking it. It can also increase the time it takes for your blood to clot.
Lemon Balm
Georgetown University Medical Center relates that lemon balm is native to parts of Asia and Europe with over 2,000 years of use as a remedy for anxiety and sleeplessness. To use, a tea is made with the leaves and flowers of the plant. Other applications of lemon balm include relieving nervous disorders, migraines, herpes and hypertension, according to Georgetown. During cognitive tests, the herb was found to improve memory and calm the nerves and negative emotions. As with any herb, consult with a licensed medical practitioner before using lemon balm to treat anxiety.
Kava Kava
The University of Texas, El Paso describes Kava kava as originating from the South Pacific island of Vanuatu. This leafy plant has roots and underground stems with medicinal properties. Kava kava is used by Polynesian natives in various ceremonies such as weddings due to its calming properties, similar to alcohol. Europeans have used it for many years to treat anxiety, according to the university. The plant is also an antifungal used to treat skin infections and venereal disease. Kava is dangerous in high dosages, producing narcotic and psychoactive effects. Do not take kava and operate machinery, as the herb makes you drowsy and slows your reflexes. Consult with your doctor before taking kava.
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