Stress and anxiety are normal parts of the human experience when transient. However, when stress and anxiety are long lasting or severe, they may be signs of a treatable anxiety disorder. Herbal remedies, such as kava and green tea, may offer relief, but if stress and anxiety are causing serious problems at home, work or in relationships, consult a qualified healthcare provider for treatment advice.
Kava
Kava is traditionally used in the Pacific Islands as a ceremonial drink that promotes conviviality, conversation and relaxation at community gatherings. It is now widely available as an herbal remedy for anxiety and restlessness. A 2010 article in "Nutrition Journal" states that while clinical trials on kava have yielded contradictory results, some demonstrated kava to be more effective than placebo in relieving symptoms of anxiety. Unlike many pharmaceutical anti-anxiety medications, kava does not cause sedation or cognitive impairment.
Green Tea
Green tea, which originates from the same plant as black and oolong tea, has been used both as a beverage and as a medicinal herb for years. According to "How to Use Herbs, Nutrients & Yoga in Mental Health Care," a book by psychiatrists Richard P. Brown and Patricia L. Gerbarg, a naturally calming amino acid known as theanine is abundantly present in green tea. Theanine promotes alpha brain waves, which are associated with a state of relaxed alertness. According to the authors, green tea may be especially helpful for anxiety that results from stress.
Kava Cautions and Considerations
The safety of kava was seriously questioned in the early 2000s, when 82 people from around the world developed liver problems as a result of using the herb. Some of these cases may have occurred because of kava that was contaminated or improperly prepared, according to a 2008 article in "The Herb Companion." Nevertheless, the use of kava remains controversial. Use it only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner.
Green Tea Cautions and Considerations
Though it is generally safe, green tea has the potential to cause adverse effects in certain individuals or when combined with supplements, medicines or other herbs. It is not recommended for use by children because of a lack of clinical data on this group. Caffeine is naturally present in green tea; an excess of caffeine from green tea in addition to other sources can cause dizziness, a fast heartbeat and irritability. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, green tea should not be used in conjunction with warfarin, a blood thinner. It may also alter the effectiveness of clozapine, lithium, chemotherapy drugs and certain antibiotics. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before adding green tea to your regimen.
References
- "How to Use Herbs, Nutrients, and Yoga in Mental Health Care"; Richard P. Brown, et al.; 2009
- "Nutrition Journal": Nutritional and Herbal Supplements for Anxiety and Anxiety-Related Disorders: Systematic Review; Shaheen E Lakhan* and Karen F Vieira; October 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Green Tea
- "The Herb Companion": Kava Safety Update; Michael Castleman; January/February 2008
