Social anxiety is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by a fear of social situations. If you have social anxiety, you may fear being watched or evaluated when performing a task or simply when eating or talking in public. People with social anxiety often go to great lengths to avoid social situations and may experience both physical and psychological symptoms, such as worry, trembling, nausea and a pounding heartbeat before and during a social situation. Social anxiety can have a debilitating effect on the sufferer and may require psychological therapy and medication. Some herbs may also help to alleviate anxiety. Seek advice from your health-care provider before using them.
Kava
Kava may alleviate symptoms of mild to moderate anxiety, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Kava is a type of pepper that grows on the islands of the South Pacific. Its roots and rhizomes are used to make herbal products including teas, capsules and tablets. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) says that although kava may be an effective anxiety treatment, it has been linked with serious side effects, including liver damage and hepatitis. Talk to your doctor before using this herb.
Valerian
Valerian is a calming herb that may help relieve feelings of anxiety. However, the UMMC suggests that it may be no better than a placebo treatment at reducing social anxiety symptoms. According to NCCAM, however, it may reduce trembling, a common symptom of social anxiety. Short-term use of valerian is likely safe, says NCCAM, but long-term safety has not been fully established. Side effects may include nausea, dizziness and fatigue. Do not use this herb alongside sedatives as it may heighten their effect. You should also avoid this herb if you pregnant or have a liver disorder.
Passionflower
Passionflower, also known as Passiflora incarnata, may be useful anti-anxiety treatment. According to an article published in October 2010 in the online version of the U.K. newspaper, the "Daily Mail," researchers at the Global Neuroscience Initiative Foundation analyzed results from 24 clinical trials of herbal remedies for anxiety and found that passionflower supplements appear to work. Passionflower may be taken as tea, tincture or fluid extract and is considered safe when taken as directed. This herb may interact with some medicines including sedatives, anticoagulants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors.
