Anxiety disorders affect 40 million adult Americans, making anxiety the most common mental health problem in the United States, according to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America. While there are many effective prescription medications to treat anxiety, many of these cause unpleasant side effects and some of them may be habit forming. Natural herbs to calm anxiety are typically well tolerated, cause minimal side effects and are not addicting. This makes them an attractive alternative to prescription drugs for many people.
Valerian
Valerian extract is used throughout the world as a treatment for both anxiety and insomnia. Some studies have shown valerian to be as effective at treating general anxiety and panic attacks as prescription medications, according to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. The Office of Dietary Supplements cautions that valerian extract may cause headaches, dizziness, generalized itching and gastrointestinal side effects.
Kava
Kava is a popular herb for treating anxiety. Healthy Place states that kava acts quickly to calm the nervous system and create feelings of euphoria. The herb also has sedative and muscle relaxant effects, making it useful for the treatment of tension and insomnia. While kava rarely causes side effects, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine warns that kava supplements pose a risk of severe liver damage.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a beneficial herb for both children and adults suffering from anxiety, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, and it is typically taken for nervous tension, insomnia and gastrointestinal problems. Side effects are generally mild, but some people may experience a severe allergic reaction to chamomile if they are allergic to ragweed, marigolds, or other plants in the daisy family. Symptoms of an allergy to chamomile include rash, difficulty breathing and throat swelling. In severe cases, anaphylaxis may develop requiring medical attention.
Other Herbs for Anxiety
St. John's Wort, damiana and passionflower all help relieve anxiety in some people, according to the Healthy Place website. St. John's wort is best known for use as an antidepressant, but the herb also works to calm the nervous system and reduce tension and irritability. Damiana and passionflower are often included in herbal anxiety products and are useful in treating anxiety, stress and insomnia.
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