Natural Cures for Nervousness

Nervousness can range from a slight sense of apprehension all the way to a full-blown panic attack. It feels different to different people. Some common symptoms include restlessness, excessive worry, inability to concentrate, a tight feeling in the chest or throat, butterflies in the stomach and irritability. There are prescriptions available for chronic nervousness (you're nervous all the time) as well as acute anxiety (panic attacks), but you might want to try natural cures first.

Herbal remedies

• Because herbs can interact with prescription medications, you should talk with your health-care provider if you take prescription drugs before trying these herbal remedies.

  Common herbs used for nervousness and anxiety include passionflower, skullcap, Valerian, kava, St. John's wort and lemon balm. You can purchase these at a natural-foods store in teas, capsules and sometimes in tinctures.

Vitamins, minerals and amino acids

• You might try adding these to your daily routine to see if it helps with your nervousness and feelings of well being: GABA, calcium, sublingual B vitamins (it should include folic acid) and magnesium.

Alternative therapies to try

• You should consider withdrawing from caffeine if you drink a lot of tea, coffee or soda. Too much caffeine can have a negative effect on the nervous system.

  Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with or without herbal and vitamin therapies, might be able to get to the root of the problem and eliminate anxiety and nervousness.

  Other therapies include: homeopathic remedies, aromatherapy, Ayuvedic remedies, accupressure, accupuncture, massage therapy, yoga or tai chi, deep breathing, stretching, modest exercise, meditation and faith-based prayer and study.