While it is natural to feel nervous or "on edge" in certain situations, if you constantly feel worried about everything, you may have an anxiety disorder. Other symptoms of anxiety include fatigue, irritability and concentration difficulties. Anxiety can usually be treated by combining anti-anxiety medicines with either psychotherapy or behavioral treatments. Some herbs may also help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, although there is no conclusive evidence that they are effective. Herbs may cause side effects and may not suitable for everyone. Talk to your doctor before using herbal supplements.
Examples and Administration
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that several herbs may help alleviate anxiety, including kava and valerian. Kava, a member of the pepper family, is used as an alternative remedy for a variety of conditions including psychosis and chronic fatigue syndrome, while valerian is primarily used to treat stress-related conditions. The UMMC suggests that a suitable dose of kava is 100mg to 200mg taken two to four times daily. Alternatively, you may prefer to take 150mg of valerian two or three times daily. These doses should only be used as a guideline. Your doctor will be able to advise you on a suitable dose for you.
Effectiveness
Although valerian may have a calming effect, an analysis of data from clinical trials involving this herb, published in the October 2006 edition of the "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews," concludes that there is insufficient evidence to draw any conclusions about the efficacy of valerian, compared with placebo or the anti-anxiety drug, diazepam. The authors, L.S. Miyasaka et al note that larger clinical trials are needed to determine whether valerian is an effective treatment for anxiety. In contrast, an analysis of data from 24 studies examining herbal remedies for the treatment of anxiety, carried out S.E. Lakhan and K.F. Vieira and published in the October 2010 issue of "Nutrition Journal," revealed that strong evidence exists for the use of herbal supplements containing extracts of kava.
Safety
Like conventional medicines, herbs may have adverse effects. RxList notes that using kava may not be safe since its use has been associated with liver damage. Do not use it except under your doctor's supervision. Valerian is regarded as a safe medicine, according to MedlinePlus. Nevertheless, it may cause side effects including insomnia and headache. It may also make you feel drowsy.
Considerations
Kava and valerian are not suitable for everyone. Do not use either herb if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Avoid kava if you Parkinson's disease or a liver condition. This herb may not be suitable for you if you also suffer from depression. Kava and valerian may both interact with other medicines that you may be taking including medicines that have a sedating effect, such as the zolpidem and phenobarbital.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Anxiety
- RxList: Kava
- MedlinePlus: Valerian
- PubMed.gov; Valerian for Anxiety Disorders; L.S. Miyasaka et al, October 2006
- PubMed.gov; Nutritional and Herbal Supplements Anxiety and Anxiety-Related Disorders: Systematic Review; S.E. Lakhan and K.F. Vieira; October 2010
Member Comments