Herbs for Calming Anxiety

Anxiety and stress are a common condition suffered by many people today. Anxiety may lead to sleeplessness, affect your appetite and cause headaches and stomach upsets. There are a variety of herbs, used by natural therapists, to treat the symptoms of anxiety. Many are reported to be gentle, with little to no side effects and available from health food stores. Consult your doctor before going ahead with a herbal treatment, and speak to a natural therapist to get the right herbs for you.

Chamomile

• Chamomile is a herb known for its sedative, muscle relaxant and antispasmodic properties. It has been used to treat anxiety and insomnia for many years. It is reported to contain anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiallergenic properties and is also used to soothe an upset stomach, to aid in digestion and ease fevers and cold symptoms.

Skullcap

• Skullcap is considered a nerve tonic and is used to treat a variety of conditions that affect the nervous system, including ADD, epilepsy, hysteria and insomnia. Skullcap is used to restore and revitalize the nervous system; it is said to not only calm anxiety, but actually regenerate the nervous system. It is believed to heal nervous exhaustion.

Oat Straw

• Oat straw is known to feed, replenish and tone the nervous system. It is used by natural therapists to treat depression and anxiety. Oat straw is said to be very high in calcium and magnesium and to contain high levels of vitamins A, B Complex, C and E. These vitamins and minerals are reported to support healthy bones, boost immunity and assist in bringing health to the nervous system.

Kava Kava

• Kava kava is an herb used by natural therapists to treat insomnia, depression, stress and anxiety. The exact way kava kava works is not known, but it is speculated that it affects neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, inducing feelings of happiness. Kava kava is said to produce feelings of clarity, relaxation and a type of mild euphoria. It is not recommended in high doses.

Passion Flower

• Passion flower is used as a sedative by natural therapists. It is said to contain pain-relieving and anti-spasmodic properties. It is used to treat insomnia, anxiety and depression as well as improving circulation, easing stomach discomforts and reducing high blood pressure. It is also used as a mild painkiller. Passion flower is also recommended for treating the anxiety and symptoms of nicotine, drug and alcohol withdrawal.