While occasional anxiety is part of the human condition, frequent or excessive anxiety can interfere with the normal activities of daily living. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, symptoms of anxiety include a fast heartbeat, muscle tension, restlessness, irritability and difficulties with concentration or sleep. Anxiety can have different causes, including an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain. Certain herbs may help, but if your anxiety is long lasting or severe, consult a medical professional.
Passionflower
Passionflower is used by various cultures to relieve restlessness and nervousness. A review published in the October 2010 "Nutrition Journal" stated that although further study is warranted, passionflower may be an effective agent in the treatment of anxiety. Studies showed that passionflower eased anxiety in patients who were about to undergo surgery as well as in patients diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. In fact, a double-blind study found that it relieved the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder as effectively as benzodiazepine, a prescription medication. Side effects may rarely occur with passionflower, including drowsiness, dizziness and confusion. Consult a qualified health care provider before using passionflower to treat anxiety or any other condition.
Valerian
According to the book "Health Professional's Guide to Dietary Supplements," the roots of the valerian plant have been used medicinally since the time of the Roman Empire. It has been used by herbalists to alleviate migraines, induce sleep, ease menstrual cramps and relieve anxiety. Several studies indicate that valerian eases social stress and emotional tension better than a placebo and just as well as propranolol, a beta-blocker that is often used for test anxiety and stage fright. Mild nausea and headaches are possible side effects of valerian. More research is necessary to confirm its long-term safety and efficacy.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is classified as a rejuvenator and brain topic in Ayurveda, a system of healing that originated in India thousands of years ago. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, ashwagandha is rich in iron and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is derived from the roots of a shrub called Withania somnifera. Ashwagandha has been traditionally employed for a number of diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, epilepsy and diabetes. It is also used for a number of stress-related disorders and as a general energy-boosting tonic. The January 2009 "World Journal of Biological Psychiatry" described a study in which ashwagandha was better than placebo for anxiety symptoms. In the study, 40 patients were randomized to receive either placebo or ashwagandha. The study found that 12 of 17 patients who received ashwagandha had a positive response, as compared with six of the 16 who received a placebo. However, more research is needed before ashwagandha can be widely recommended as an anxiety treatment.
References
- Nutrition Journal: Nutritional and Herbal Supplements for Anxiety and Anxiety-Related Disorders: Systematic Review
- "Health Professional's Guide to Dietary Supplements"; S. Talbott & K. Hughes; 2006
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Anxiety
- "World Journal of Biological Psychiatry"; Ashwagandha for Anxiety Disorders; C. Andrade; 2009
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Ashwagandha
