Anxiety is prolonged fearfulness and worrying, even when there is no threat present, real or imagined. It can be accompanied by heart palpitations, sweating, nervousness, diarrhea, headaches, fatigue and insomnia. Anxiety and its symptoms can come about from taking certain prescription and recreational drugs, diet and cold medications as well as psychologically traumatic events. Before taking any herb or supplement, you should first speak to your physician to rule out any underlying medical condition that could be causing your symptoms.
Kava Kava
Kava kava is a large shrub that is native to the Pacific islands. The root is commonly used in the United States and Europe as an herb to treat anxiety. Herbalist Michael Tierra suggests taking it infrequently as a tincture to create a euphoric and tranquil state. It has antispasmodic and muscle relaxant properties which are believed to calm nerves and induce relaxation which can aid in relieving heart palpitations. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, there are several studies that have shown kava kava to be effective when used as an extract to treat anxiety, even after only one week's use. There are some reports that kava kava can cause liver damage and therefore should never be given to children, and adults should only use it with physician supervision.
Valerian
Valerian is a tall perennial plant that is native to North America, Europe and temperate regions of Asia. It can grow up to 6 feet in height and has small white to pink flowers. The rhizome of valerian is used as an herb to treat insomnia, nervousness and stress. It has sedative, hypnotic and nervine properties, which work directly on the central nervous system to cause muscle relaxation and create a sense of calm and well-being. An article published in the June 2010, issue of "Primary Care" by N.M. Larzelere, J.S. Campbell and M. Robertson mentions the effectiveness of using valerian in treating anxiety. Valerian is generally considered safe to use, but it is recommended that you speak to your physician before taking this herb.
Scullcap
Scullcap is native to the moist wooded areas of the United States. It is a perennial plant that is a member of the mint family and normally grows to about 1 foot in height with blue flowers. The flowers and leaves are used in herbal preparations to treat anxiety and insomnia. It has sedative, nervine and antispasmodic properties that can relax the nervous system, ease tensions and help normalize a racing heart. According to Drugs.Com, there are animal and human studies that suggest compounds found within scullcap have the ability to ease anxiety. Because there is little information on the safety of using scullcap, it is recommended that you speak to your physician before taking this herb.
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