While everyone experiences anxiety from time to time, some people suffer anxiety that can cripple their ability to function normally. Some people who think they're anxious are actually suffering from depression, the University of Michigan Health System website reports. Anxiety can cause a racing pulse, rapid breathing, stomach problems, sweating, irritability and fatigue. A number of herbs and vitamins may reduce anxiety in some people, but be sure to consult your physician before using any of them.
Inositol
Inositol, part of the B-vitamin complex, occurs naturally in beans, cantaloupe, oranges, nuts and wheat. Inositol may help with anxiety related to panic attacks. In a study reported on the University of Michigan Health System website, a dose of inositol up to 4 grams three times a day helped control attacks. Definite benefits have not been proven and require further evaluation; always discuss supplementation with your medical practitioner before taking inositol or any other supplement.
Kava Kava
Kava kava, made from the root of a shrub grown on islands in the Pacific Ocean, may have beneficial properties in treating anxiety. Kava kava may increase relaxation and improve feelings of well-being and mood without causing cognitive difficulties. The University of Maryland Medical Center website reports that one study showed kava kava improved symptoms after just one week. Kava kava, can, however, cause liver damage as well; take kava kava only under medical supervision, the University of Maryland website warns.
Passionflower
Passionflower may increase levels of a chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA in your brain. Since GABA decreases the activity of some brain cells, GABA can increase relaxation. Passionflower hasn't been well studied, since it's often combined with other herbs. Passionflower is taken in tea, or as a tincture or fluid extract. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take passionflower, the UMMC website advises. Passionflower could also potentiate the effects of sleeping pills and can also increase bleeding times, making it potentially dangerous for people with bleeding disorders or those who take blood thinners.
Valerian
Valerian, made from the root of the herb valerian, is often used to treat insomnia, but may have some benefit in treating anxiety, although study results have been inconclusive, the MedlinePlus website reports. Valerian acts on the central nervous system, slowing it down. Since surgery also slows down the central nervous system, stop Valerian two weeks before any planned surgery. Valerian can potentiate drowsiness if taken with sedatives or sleep medications, as well as alcohol. Valerian can also cause excitability, headaches, uneasiness and insomnia, in some cases, the MedlinePlus website warns.
