PTSD and Herbal Medicines

Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a type of anxiety disorder that often develops after you have witnessed a traumatic event. The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that post-traumatic stress disorder usually develops following experiences in which you have dealt with the threat of injury or death. Herbal medicines may help treat some of your PTSD symptoms, but you should consult your doctor before using medicinal herbs for this purpose.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

The National Institute of Mental Health states that if you have PTSD, you may experience numerous symptoms, including flashbacks, bad dreams, frightening thoughts, feelings of guilt, worry or depression, fear avoidance behavior, memory problems, loss of interest in pleasurable activities, persistent feelings of tension, irritability. and low sleep quality. PTSD can can occur in anyone, at any age. PTSD often develops after natural disasters or horrific events, such as war or domestic abuse.

Herbal Medicines

Many herbal medicines may help treat your PTSD. According to Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant, nutrition expert and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," the following herbs may be beneficial in reducing your stress levels and promoting relaxation: ashwagandha, catnip, chamomile, holy basil, hops, kava kava, passionflower, polygala root and valerian. Skullcap is helpful for nervous disorders, while dong quai, rehmannia and schizandra support your adrenal glands and central nervous system.

An Effective Herb

Hops may be one of the most effective herbs in treating PTSD. Hops, notes Balch, helps ease nervousness, restlessness and stress. This herbal medicine also helps reduce your desire for alcohol, which is helpful, as alcohol abuse may be common among people with PTSD, states the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress. Hops is commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia, shock, stress and pain. Hops possesses sedative, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic action.

Warning

PTSD is a serious health problem that requires intervention and treatments by qualified health care professionals. Possible complications associated with this condition include drug and alcohol abuse, depression, anxiety and various phobias. In many cases, a multifaceted treatment plan is most effective in treating this condition. Although herbal medicines may be an important part of your PTSD treatment plan, always discuss their use with your physician before using them to treat your PTSD.