Supplement use by Americans is ever-increasing, according to a 2007 study by Sy Atezaz Saeed and colleagues published in American Family Physician. Those with anxiety or depressive disorders tend to use supplements more often than the general public. A variety of supplements are available that are reported to decrease anxiety. However, users are cautioned to speak with a health care provider before taking any supplements.
Kava
Kava is an herb once used to treat asthma and urinary tract infections, though it is now most commonly associated with anxiety. Though some evidence exists that kava is beneficial to those with anxiety disorders, the FDA has issued a warning regarding the potential dangers of this supplement. Kava has been linked to the development of severe liver damage. Those interested in using kava should consult with a health care provider before taking the supplement.
Valerian
There is little scientific evidence to support the use of valerian for anxiety though the supplement has long been used for this purpose. While the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states that valerian is safe to use for short periods, side effects such as headaches, dizziness and upset stomach have been noted. Like other supplements, consult with a health care provider before using valerian.
Passionflower
Passionflower extracts have been shown to have a complex action on the nervous system, according to pharmacist Alan C. McKelvery of Wright State University. McKelvery reports that the anxiety relieving properties of passionflower make this supplement useful in the treatment of other conditions as well. However, passionflower may affect blood coagulation and is not recommended for those using blood thinning medications. Because passionflower is known to interact with other medications, seek the advice of a health care professional before using passionflower.
St. John's Wort
St. John's wort is sometimes recommended as an anxiety reducing supplement due to its calming effect on the nervous system. However, like kava, St. John's wort is not recommended to be used with other medications and its effectiveness has not been proven. Trials involving the use of this supplement to treat anxiety have been reported to be unreplicated and with design flaws. Those considering the use of St. John's wort to treat anxiety should discuss this choice with a health care provider before beginning to take the supplement.
S-Adenosylmethionine
S-Adenosylmethionine, also known as SAM-e, supplements are sometimes recommended in the natural treatment of anxiety disorders. SAM-e works in the production and regulation of neurotransmitters in the brain, and multiple studies have shown at least some benefit in anxiety treatment. Gastrointestinal side effects may occur with the use of this supplement. Though considered relatively safe, seek the advice of a health care professional before using SAM-e supplements for anxiety or any other condition.
References
- "American Family Physician"; Herbal and Dietary Supplements for Treatment of Anxiety Disorders; Sy Atezaz Saeed, et al; 2007
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Kava
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Valerian
- Wright State University: Popular Natural Remedies Part XII
- University of Minnesota: Anxiety and Depression: Botanical Medicines
