I first began using herbs for anxiety after having a bad reaction to a prescription anti-anxiety medication.
At age 38 I was diagnosed with an unusual brain disorder after having a mild stroke that left me disabled for a few months.
Although I recovered from the physical disability quickly, I was not prepared for the emotional impact of this illness. Before long anxiety and depression were my constant companions.
Over the years of managing the symptoms of my illness I’ve come to rely on natural remedies. I like that I can use them long term without worrying about addiction or suffering from uncomfortable side effects.
Three of the Most Helpful Herbs for Anxiety
- Passionflower has a long history of medicinal use in North America for supporting the brain and nervous system. Modern research has confirmed it’s effectiveness and has made passionflower a very popular herb to include in herbal formulas to help soothe depression, anxiety, panic, and general stress.
- Lemonbalm is a perennial herb in the mint family and has been studied for its beneficial effect on the nervous system. Traditionally this herb has been used as a sedative, and as an antispasmodic.
- Lavender is a popular herb which contains active ingredients known for their soothing properties and as a tonic to support the nervous system.
Traditional herbalists developed the practice of combining herbs with a similar effects to create an enhanced synergistic benefit. This is still practiced today in natural remedy manufacturing, so it’s common to find herbal formulas with several herbs like the ones mentioned above in a formula designed for a specific issue like anxiety.
I’ve found this type of formula to be more effective that using single herbs. Also, liquid herbal remedies called tinctures are absorbed into the bloodstream more directly and can produce faster symptom relief. I’ve found tinctures to be very effective for anxiety.
There is some variability in the quality of natural remedies, so it’s a good idea to educate yourself a little in order to find high quality products that will have a better chance of producing a positive result.
With a little homework you’ll be able to find quality herbs for anxiety that will provide the symptom relief you’re looking for.
Source by Max Wardlow