Anxiety is a mental condition characterized by constant worry, tension and a general feeling of unease. Most people feel stressed or worried from time to time, but a person with anxiety is permanently in a state of "high alert." If you suffer from anxiety, your doctor may prescribe medications to alleviate symptoms. You may also benefit from psychotherapy. Some herbs may also have anti-anxiety effects. Get medical advice before using them.
Examples
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that several herbs may help to alleviate anxiety symptoms, including kava and valerian. Kava is a member of the pepper family and is native to regions of the South Pacific. Sometimes referred to as "intoxicating pepper," it is used as an herbal remedy for a stress, insomnia and anxiety, and may help to promote relaxation. Valerian has been used as a medicinal remedy for thousands of years and is primarily used for anxiety and insomnia, although the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine notes that it is sometimes used to alleviate headaches and depression.
Administration
Kava and valerian may be taken as teas or herbal tinctures. You can also take them in capsules or tablets. UMMC suggests taking 150 mg of valerian two or three times daily to alleviate anxiety. Alternatively, you may prefer to take 100 mg to 200 mg of kava two to four times daily. These dosages are intended to be guidelines. The required dose of each herb may be influenced by several factors, including your age and other medicines you may be taking. Get further advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
Effectiveness
NCCAM states that while valerian may be helpful for insomnia, there is not enough evidence to determine whether it is an effective anxiety treatment. An analysis of clinical trial findings published in the October 2006 issue of the "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews" concludes that there is insufficient evidence to determine whether valerian is more helpful than a placebo or the tranquilizer diazepam. Evidence to support the use of kava is more robust. An analysis of findings from 24 clinical studies, published in the October 2010 issue of "Nutrition Journal," concludes that strong evidence exists to support the use of kava as an anti-anxiety treatment.
Safety Considerations
NCCAM notes that short-term valerian use is likely safe, but adds that it may cause side effects including headaches, upset stomach and fatigue. Kava may not be safe, as it has been linked with liver damage. Its use is contraindicated in several conditions, including Parkinson's disease and liver disease. Don't use it during pregnancy or breast-feeding. Consult your doctor before using either of these herbs.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Anxiety
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Kava
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Valerian
- "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews"; Valerian for Anxiety Disorders; L.S. Miyasaka et al.; October 2006
- "Nutrition Journal"; Nutritional and Herbal Supplements for Anxiety and Anxiety-Related Disorders: Systematic Review; S.E. Lakhan and K.F. Vieira; October 2010
- RxList: Kava
