It is normal to experience feelings of tension and worry from time to time, especially when facing a stressful situation like an exam or job interview. However, if you find to hard to relax and are constantly worried or experiencing feeling of dread, you may be suffering from anxiety. According to the U.K. National Health Service's website, NHS Choices, the exact cause of anxiety is unclear. However, it may be caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. Anxiety is usually treated with psychotherapy or medication, or a combination of the two. Herbs may also help to relieve anxiety, but talk to to your doctor before using them.
Examples
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center website, valerian is primarily a treatment for insomnia but may also help to relieve anxiety. Kava, a member of the pepper family, is used to treat a number of conditions including fatigue, urinary tract infections and anxiety. Scientists have also identified passionflower as a potential anxiety-busting herb.
Administration
Valerian, passionflower and kava can be taken in capsules and pills or as teas. You should always talk to your doctor about the correct dosing and treatment schedule for you, but the UMMC website suggests taking 150 mg of valerian two or three times daily. Kava may be taken two to four times daily at a dose of 100 to 200 mg. Take passionflower according to the manufacturer's guidelines or by following your doctor's advice.
Efficacy
Researchers from the Global Neuroscience Initiative Foundation analyzed findings from 24 clinical studies into herbal remedies commonly used to alleviate anxiety and found that passionflower seemed to work in patients who took this herb. The researchers also note that kava appears to be effective. However, evidence to support valerian's efficacy as an anti-anxiety agent is somewhat mixed, notes the UMMC website.
Side Effects
Researchers from the Global Neuroscience Initiative Foundation found that while passionflower appears to be effective, some people who take this herb may experience dizziness, drowsiness and confusion. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, kava has been associated with serious side effects including liver failure and hepatitis, while valerian may cause mild side effects including tiredness, dizziness and headache.
Contraindications
Do not valerian if you have liver problems or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You should also avoid this herb if you are taking sedatives such as barbiturates, antidepressants and antihistamines. NCCAM notes that you should not use kava alongside drugs to treat Parkinson's disease. Avoid kava if you have liver problems. According to the UMMC website, passionflower may interact with sedatives, anticoagulants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors.
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