Anxiety is a common experience, however, when it impairs everyday activity, it may require professional intervention. Individuals who become anxious in social situations often avoid social functions that they might otherwise enjoy. Symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, nausea and sleep disruption can be severe enough to cause you to develop a smaller and smaller comfort zone. Psychotherapy and medication are often prescribed for individuals with social anxiety. However, some people have found that specific herbs can help to relieve their symptoms.
Step 1
Take 150 mg. of valerian root capsules, twice a day. According to the University of Maryland, valerian is an alternative treatment for insomnia and occasionally, for anxiety. Valerian capsules can be purchased at a local health food store. In addition, valerian tea and valerian extract are also available for individuals who prefer an alternative to taking pills. According to the National Institutes of Health, valerian is a relatively safe herb. However, if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications for anxiety, you should avoid using this herb.
Step 2
Drink three to four cups of passionflower tea daily. The University of Maryland explains that passionflower is used for its calming effect, whcih is more subtle than that of valerian. As a medicinal herb, passionflower is prescribed for insomnia and anxiety and in some cases, it is combined with valerian and other calming herbs in teas that can be purchased at your local health food store. Passionflower can interact with medications such as sedatives, antidepressants and anticoagulants, so if you are taking any of these, speak with your doctor before using passionflower.
Step 3
Inhale the scent of lavender essential oil by placing a few drops on a soft clean cloth or in a vaporizer. According to the National Institutes of Health, lavender is used to treat conditions such as insomnia, depression and anxiety. Although lavender tea is available, ingesting too much lavender can cause adverse effects. You can find lavender essential oil at your local health food store. If you are taking a sedative medication, talk to your doctor before using lavender, because it can cause increased sedation.
Step 4
Take 220 mg. of German chamomile in capsule form, twice a day. A 2009 study published in "The Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology" and cited by the National Institutes of Health found that participants reported significantly less anxiety when taking German chamomile. If you have an allergy to flowers that are members of the daisy family, avoid chamomile, because it is related to these plants.
Step 5
Take 900 mg. of St. John's wort in capsule form daily. The American Cancer Society explains that St. John's wort is used in Europe as a treatment for depression and anxiety and is available as a prescription medication. In the United States, St. John's wort is available for purchase at your local health food store. If you are taking prescription medications, talk to your doctor before using this herb, as it can cause unwanted interactions. St. John's wort can also cause photosensitivity, which can be avoided by using sunscreen when going outdoors.
