Stress Relief – The Best Herbs for Anxiety

Herbs have been used for centuries in the treatment of anxiety and panic attacks. Even today’s anxiety prescription medication often contains an herbal component. That’s because these anxiety herbs have well known abilities to strengthen our body’s response to stress and also to promote relaxation and calm.

One of the main benefits to herbal treatments for anxiety is the cost. Herbal treatments are almost always much less expensive than prescription drugs. But the benefits don’t end there. The best herbs for anxiety will also have fewer and less severe side effects as well, making them safer to use. For instance, they’re nonaddictive.

Keep in mind that any anxiety herbs definitely do have side effects. For that reason, you should be careful when introducing any new herb or supplement into your body. Take the time to speak with your doctor or pharmacist before you begin any new regimen.

Valerian

Valerian has long been known as primarily an aid to deep, restful sleep. However it’s calming effects can be used during the day as well. Small doses during the day can help control the nervous, anxious feelings you can get when faced with today’s stressors.

Kava

Kava was first used in the South Pacific islands where it grows easily and abundantly. There it was cultivated into a relaxing beverage used in nearly every household. From there, it made its way to Europe and the West where it is used as an effective treatment for anxiety and insomnia.

St. John’s Wort

One of the oldest anxiety herbs known to man, St. John’s Wort has been used for over 2000 years. While it’s quite effective at reducing small to moderate anxiety, it also comes with more pronounced side effects than other herbal remedies. In particular, it can interfere with other drugs that you might be taking, so you need to exercise more care when using this herb.

Passion Flower

Passion Flower is so named because early pilgrims to the new world thought it resembled the crown of thorns and the nails on the cross of Christ. When it was first cultivated it was found to assist with digestion. Later, its natural sedative effects were discovered. Today, it is an effective calming herb.

Wrapping Up

These herbs for anxiety have been around a long time. Their properties are well known and they’re readily available in most health food stores. You can find them in liquid form, capsules, or as teas. So you have a lot of choices to pick from. Keep in mind that you may have to try more than one or two to find out what works best for you.

I personally find the teas to be the easiest to use. They’re easy to make and I enjoy a cup of tea after dinner; it’s part of a little pre-sleep routine I use to ease away the stress of the day. But you may find capsules or extracts more convenient for you. In any case, if you’re looking for some help managing your stress and anxiety, these best herbs for anxiety can give you some amazing results.