Nervousness or anxiety is a feeling of being worried over something real or imagined. Some people are overly anxious or nervous with no known cause, and taking an herbal remedy may help them to regain a state of calm equilibrium and enable them to return to their normal day-to-day affairs. Although certain herbs may calm anxiety and nervousness, they can also cause side effects. Consult a health practitioner familiar with the use of herbs before starting new treatments.
Valerian
Valerian is often used to treat insomnia as well as nervous anxiety, although with mixed results, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, it can be combined with lemon balm and St. John's wort, which both boost its ability to help bring calm and reduce anxiety, adds UMMC. Valerian acts primarily as a sedative and will make you drowsy. It should not be combined with other sedative-like medicines, including antidepressants and antihistamines. Do not take valerian if you are nursing or pregnant. Do not use valerian if you have liver problems unless under the supervision of your health practitioner.
Kava Kava
Kava kava is used for the treatment of nervousness and anxiety; however, it may cause liver problems. You should not self-treat with kava kava. Seek the assistance of a trained herbalist before taking it. Kava may be helpful for relieving insomnia and stress and bring on relaxation, according to "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook."
Chamomile
Chamomile may be helpful for calming jangled nerves. It can also help to overcome insomnia. Chamomile is especially helpful for anxious, nervous children who are teething. Take it in tea form, which can be sweetened with a small amount of honey.
Essential Oils
Certain aromatherapy products produce calming effects on the nerves and help some people overcome anxiety and nervousness. Herbs like lemon balm, jasmine, lavender and bergamot can be used individually or in an herbal mixture to calm the nerves, notes UMMC. Place a few drops in an aromatherapy diffuser or in the bath water for an herbal spa treatment.
Reishi Mushroom
The herb of immortality in China, reishi mushroom has many uses, including that of bringing calm and centeredness to nervous individuals, according to AltMD.com. It may eliminate insomnia and reduce fatigue, anxiety and nervousness, especially in those with adrenal problems. Reishi mushroom is available as a liquid or powdered extract. Consult an herbalist familiar with its use for dosing guidelines.
Passion Flower
Passion flower is a well-known herb used as a nerve tonic that is used as a sedative and to reduce insomnia, eliminate nightmares and calm hysteria. It is especially helpful for people who have a tendency toward paranoia and an overactive imagination, notes the AltMD website.
References
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Everyday Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing"; James Duke; 2002
- AltMD: Passion Flower Herbal Remedies
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Anxiety
- AltMD: Reishi Herbal Remedies
- "The Magic of Herbs"; David Conway; 1973
- "The Yoga of Herbs"; David Frawley and Vasant Lad; 2001
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