Alternative natural anxiety remedies

For some people, medications work well when it comes to treating the symptoms of anxiety however others feel that prescription medicines should be a last resort.

For those who are willing to look past the chemicals, there are many home based and herbal remedies that may work for you which offer virtually no side effects at all.

Let’s take a look at a selection of herbs that are effective in healing many types of anxiety related symptoms.

The most common symptoms of anxiety are:

• IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
• Heart palpitations
• Emotional instability

Before you begin any treatment, it is best to examine your anxiety. There are different treatments for different symptoms. Understand your symptoms and try these home remedies.

Natural Treatments

Catnip

This is a unique remedy for anxiety and is a member of the family of mints. It treats many anxiety symptoms and is used to treat stomach cramps and irritation. It also reduces headache and insomnia. It improves appetite and eases muscle tension. All these are very common anxiety symptoms and this is why catnip is considered an effective anxiety treatment.

Chamomile

It is a natural tranquiliser, which is best for light anxiety. It cures nervousness in the stomach and mind. It reduces digestive discomforts and improves appetite. It also improves lung and liver health. While experts say that chamomile is just a temporary treatment, it does provide comfort at the time of anxiety. Since it is safe to use, it can be used in cases of anxiety in children.

Fennel 

If anxiety leads to cough, then you can try fennel. It is used to cure symptoms of anxiety like indigestion, cough, and asthma. It can also be taken as antispasmodic, diuretic and analgesic. This is why it is the chosen remedy for many people.

Kava kava

Also known as just Kava, this relieves moderate to severe anxiety. It cures many problems like insomnia, anxiety, and stress. Kava doesn’t just relieve anxiety symptoms, it is also good if you have stressful feelings. Since kava is not be good for everyone, it is best to talk to your doctor before taking it. If you consume alcohol, are on medication, or if you have liver problems, it is best to consult with your doctor prior to taking it.

Hops 

Yes, the same hops used in beer can now be used to treat your anxiety. You may not know, but hops have been used medically for many years. It is used to treat stress, headaches, and insomnia. Also beneficial for indigestion and nervousness, it helps in reducing fever. Hops are used to lower the uric acid level in the human body. They also treat infections and skin problems. If you have rheumatism, hops can provide some relief, though rheumatism is not related to anxiety.

Motherwort

The main use of motherwort is for the treatment of menstrual problems. But in many cases, it is used by pregnant women to manage pregnancy tension, anxiety and stress. Though not recommended for the initial two trimesters, it is certainly considered effective in stimulating blood circulation without affecting the pulse rate. It also helps fight heart palpitations, high blood pressure and helps a person become calm without fatigue.

Passionflower

This is similar to Kava Kava in some ways, except it does not have any side effects. It is a safe treatment and is used to cure moderate to mild anxieties. It is also useful for severe anxieties in some cases. It reduces insomnia and muscle tension, thereby calming your nerves and preventing agitation, headaches, hot flashes and mood swings. If you are using MAOIs (Monoamine oxidase inhibitors), it is not recommended to take passionflower.

Skullcap

It has tonic, anti-inflammatory and sedative properties. Skullcap soothes those twitching muscles and even helps if you have the RLS (restless leg syndrome) or epilepsy. Since skullcap has natural sedative properties, some people use it for insomnia, rapid heartbeat, restlessness, and depression. Make sure to take it as directed. It is not recommended for pregnant women.

Saint John’s Wort

This herb is not entirely used to treat anxiety, yet is extremely effective for patients of depression. Since anxiety and depression symptoms are sometimes similar, it can be used for anxiety as well. St. John’s Wort also serves as a helpful mood enhancer. Its medicinal properties help cure gastroenteritis, diarrhea, chest infections and viral infections of genitals and lungs, etc.

Valerian Root

It is an incredibly efficient sedative. It is a sleep aid, yet the tranquilising properties of valerian are helpful in relaxing muscles and reducing physical and mental stress. It is also helpful in relieving uterine cramps, bronchial spasms and importunate coughs. It is not suggested for children below 12, expecting mothers, or those consuming other anti-anxiety drugs or antidepressants.

Do you have anxiety? What natural remedies have you tried and which have worked? Tell us below.