Most people experience a certain amount of anxiety before taking a test, interviewing for a job or undertaking a big project. Anxiety that worsens, however, can cause physical symptoms including chest pain and rapid breathing, and may lead to insomnia or panic disorders. Nonstimulating supplements might help improve anxiety symptoms, but check with your doctor before using them.
St John's Wort
St John's wort is a nonstimulating supplement used to lessen anxiety. It is derived from the leaves and flowers of the St John's wort plant. Scientific evidence suggests that St. John's wort may be a useful treatment for mild to moderate depression, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM. The center notes that the herb showed no benefit over a placebo in treating major depression of moderate severity, however. Potential side effects include increased sensitivity to sunlight, dizziness, fatigue, headache, stomach upset, anxiety or sexual dysfunction. Dangerous interactions could occur with antidepressant medications. In addition, St. John's wort may interfere with some drugs, including birth control pills, heart medications and anti-coagulants. Talk to your doctor before taking St John's wort or any herbal remedy.
Lavender
Lavender is popular for its fragrant qualities. When applied to the skin, lavender has an antiseptic effect; it is thought to promote hair growth and relieve headaches. Historically, the herb has been used as a mental health remedy. Today, lavender is used to ease tension, depression, restlessness and insomnia. Lavender supplements have not been studied extensively, although the oil is widely used in aromatherapy. The NCCAM reports that small studies using lavender for anxiety show mixed results. It is likely safe for adults, although oral supplements may cause constipation, headache and changes in appetite.Talk to your doctor before using lavender for tension.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a nonstimulating herbal supplement widely used to lessen anxiety. The two varieties, German chamomile and Roman chamomile, have similar effects, although the German variety is most common in the U.S. The flowering tops of the plant are used to make capsules, tablets and teas, which have been used by children and adults for centuries to promote sleep and ease anxiety. In a study following 57 people with mild to moderate generalized anxiety disorder, or GAD, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania concluded that patients taking chamomile extracts experienced modest benefits. Some people experience allergic reactions to chamomile, particularly those who are allergic to ragweed and other daisy-like plants.Talk to your doctor before using chamomile supplements for anxiety.
References
- MedlinePlus: St John's Wort
- MedlinePlus: Lavender
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Chamomile
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: St John's Wort
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Lavender
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Study Shows Chamomile Capsules Ease Anxiety Symptoms
