Herbal Treatment For Anxiety
Anxiety can come in many forms, from butterflies in your stomach before a show to the jitters that you feel when you go to the dentist. Although it's natural to feel nervous at times, long-term anxiety can lead to health problems.
Herbal treatment for anxiety can alleviate the symptoms of this condition. However, as with prescription medications, it's essential to talk to your doctor before adding any herbal supplement to your treatment plan.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a flowering herb that is used for medicinal purposes to treat many health problems such as insomnia and anxiety. It's also utilized as a mild sedative and to treat skin issues. Chamomile can help reduce tension and relax muscles, which is beneficial in reducing anxiety. It is also useful for treating digestive issues. It is believed to ease gastroesophageal acid reflux disease and indigestion. It is also effective at the reduction of stomach spasms, which can cause diarrhea.
Numerous studies have proven that chamomile can improve sleep and reduce anxiety symptoms. In a small study published in the journal Phytomedicine in 2016, chamomile proved to be an effective long-term treatment of generalized anxiety disorder. Researchers found that chamomile could reduce the severity of GAD, but not eliminate it completely. It was also discovered to improve symptoms of PTSD and phobias.
This remedy from nature has been widely used over the years and has a relaxing effect on the mind and body. It can be consumed in tea form or capsules, and can help those suffering from insomnia, as well as other conditions like depression and gastrointestinal issues. It's a powerful natural treatment for anxiety and can be combined with other herbs such as valerian to make a powerful combination.
There are some side effects of chamomile, such as drowsiness and headaches, and may interact with other medications. Consult your physician when you are taking prescription drugs or if you are combining herbal remedies.
Another remedy for anxiety that is utilized for a wide range of conditions is passionflower. It's a little stronger herbal remedy than chamomile and has been proven to decrease anxiety and insomnia. It is also effective in treating nervous disorders, headaches, and migraines as well as blood-related illnesses like hypertension. Passionflower is used together with chamomile to treat more severe anxiety.
Like the chamomile plant, this one can be used in tea or capsules. It can be found at all major health food stores and can be purchased on the internet. It is also known to improve immune function and help prevent bone loss however, these claims haven't been substantiated by scientific evidence.
Passionflower
Passionflower has been utilized by herbalists since the earliest times to relieve nervous tension and promote tranquility. It contains a mix of phytochemicals, which include flavonoids and alkaloids. Sterols, maltol and sterols, which can have calming effects on the muscles, the nervous system and the mind. Nine clinical trials have shown that it works in the reduction of anxiety. These studies analyzed the effect of Passiflora incarnata (Passionflower) preparations on the level of anxiety during medical procedures such as spinal anesthesia or dental surgery and also on the quality of sleep. In the trials analyzed, drops, syrups and tablets containing passionflower extracts, were utilized.
The effects of the plant on sedation may be due to flavonoids. Animal studies have proven that these compounds bind to receptors in the brain and increase the amount of gamma aminobutyric acid. This neurotransmitter blocks certain brain signals, which creates an atmosphere of calm. Furthermore, studies have shown that passionflower may reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder.
Many health food stores as well as online offer it as capsules or tea. It can be consumed at any time, but it is recommended to take it an hour prior to the time you go to bed. Tea can be made with dried or prepackaged herbs in water that is boiling. The tea is then boiled for between 10 and 15 mins. Some people might experience side effects from taking large doses of passionflower, like dizziness or confusion but they're generally light and short-lived.
To avoid these adverse effects to minimize the risk of these side-effects, choose your supplements carefully and adhere to the recommended dosages. In general, you should not exceed 3.5 grams of extracts of passionflower over a period of 2 days. A higher amount could result in dangerous side-effects like ataxia, or difficulty moving. This herb is not recommended for pregnant women as it can trigger the uterine muscles. holistic treatment for anxiety should not be used in combination with some medications, and it may interact with alcohol. Check with your doctor for any medication prior to using this herb.
Valerian
Valerian root is a popular herbal sleep remedy It can also aid in relieving anxiety. It functions as a mild sedative that increases the levels of a chemical in the brain known as GABA, which helps reduce anxiety and stress. The herb can also improve sleep quality, reduce stomach pain and menstrual cramps.
Researchers don't know what valerian does however they do believe that it can interact with neurotransmitters to reduce stress and anxiety. It is believed to work by interacting to gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors (GABA) in the brain, and causing them to increase their activity. This is similar to the way prescription medications like diazepam and alprazolam function.
The plant is a source of volatile oil and lignans that can boost serotonin levels, adenosine levels and other chemicals that regulate the state of mind and sleepiness. There are a variety of other compounds, such as valerenic acids which can slow down the breakdown of GABA and boost levels, leading to an overall more relaxed state. In a number studies, it has been shown that valerian/hops works as a sleep aid. One study included an experiment that was double-blind and placebo-controlled. people with insomnia were given 400 mg of the valerian/hops formula or a placebo. The treatment improved participants' subjective sleep experiences and reduced their sleep duration.
The research is promising, but more research is needed to understand the mechanisms of action. Many studies use small amounts and inconsistent dosing regimens making it difficult to generalize the results. Additionally, the herbs can cause drowsiness, so it's important not to take these when driving or engaging in dangerous activities.
Before you take any herbal supplement, be sure to talk to your physician. Also, ensure you are buying quality supplements and herbs from reliable companies. You should be aware that some supplements and herbs have not been thoroughly tested. Always read the label and stay clear of products not regulated by FDA. If your anxiety symptoms continue and you are unable to resolve them, you should think about psychotherapy (psychotherapy) to develop strategies to cope that will help reduce your symptoms.
St John's Wort
Hypericum perforatum (also known as St John's Wort) is a herb with antidepressant properties. It can help relieve mild to moderate depression, and some people who suffer from these conditions may also experience anxiety. It's been found to not be effective in treating anxiety disorders by itself. St John's is also known to decrease the effectiveness of some medications, including birth control pills, medications used to prevent rejection of organ transplants and certain heart medications. Consult your physician about it prior to beginning taking it.
St John's Wort is available in capsules and herbal teas. It is recommended to purchase it from a reputable store and use it under physician's supervision. It is not recommended for pregnant women, children, or elderly people. It can cause adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, diarrhea, and skin rashes in some people. If you encounter any of these adverse reactions, stop taking St John's herbal tea and speak to your doctor.
Apart from its effects on mental health, St John's wort is used to treat a variety of illnesses, including fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and pain that runs down the sciatic nerve in the leg (called neuropathic pain) as well as burns, shingles and irritable bowel syndrome. It also helps to quit smoking and ease some menstrual symptoms like constipation and cramps.
Certain studies suggest that St John's Wort can boost mood, even in those without mental illness. It's not known if this is due to a change in emotional processing or because of some other effect, like helping people remember things more easily.
There is evidence that suggests St John's plant may help relieve some of the symptoms of anxiety disorders, like tension and feeling overwhelmed. St John's wort could aid in the treatment of social phobia and obsessive-compulsive disorder, but more research must be conducted.