Generalized anxiety disorder is the clinical diagnosis given to individuals who experience excessive worry and persistent anxiety for a period of 6 months. Treatment typically entails psychotherapy, medication or both. Herbal treatment for the symptoms of GAD may have some benefit but there is no evidence to support herbal treatment as a cure. Consult your general practitioner or your psychiatrist before trying an herbal remedy for GAD.
Types
Valerian and kava kava are popular herbs used to treat symptoms of anxiety. Valerian has a sedating effect and may help combat insomnia associated with anxiety. Kava kava may also help you to fall asleep and alleviate fatigue. However, in the October 2000 issue of "American Family Physician," Dr. Michael F. Gliatto states that although valerian and kava kava are commonly used to treat anxiety, clinical studies are needed to determine if these herbs can be used safely and effectively for people with GAD.
Side Effects
Like medications, there is the potential for negative side effects from herbal treatment. Certain herbs may have an adverse effect on your body when they interact with medications, other supplements or alcohol. For example, valerian use may result in mild headaches or dizziness. Although it is considered to be safe, this only applies to short term use between 4 and 6 weeks. Drowsiness is a side effect of kava kava that is intensified by alcohol. Kava kava has also been linked to liver damage.
Benefits
The main benefit of herbal treatments anxiety disorders is that, in general, herbs have fewer side effects than prescription medications. Also, they can be purchased over the counter, often in the form of capsules or tea, and are typically less expensive than prescription medications. Unfortunately, there is currently no objective evaluation standard to provide evidence of the benefits of different herbs. As such, in December 2010, the World Health Organization began an initiative to develop a classification system for traditional medicines, including herbal remedies.
Considerations
Instead of ingesting an herb, you may want to consider inhaling its scent to enhance your physical and mental well being. This type of treatment is called aromatherapy. Aromatherapy for anxiety involves the use of essential oils from herbs with calming or soothing qualities. Such herbs include chamomile, lavender, and peppermint. For best results, make sure you purchase pure essential oils that contain no other ingredients. Also, by warming up the oil, you will be able to breathe in the scent more rapidly.
References
- "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision"; American Psychiatic Association, 2000
- "American Family Physician"; Generalized Anxiety Disorder; Dr. Michael F. Gliatto; Oct 2000
- Medicine: Kava - Side Effects and Cautions
- Medicine: Valerian - Side Effects and Cautions
- World Health Organization: WHO to define information standards for traditional medicine
- Aroma Stress Buster: About Aromatherapy
