There are a variety of herbs that have been traditionally used to help relieve anxiety. Some of the most popular include chamomile, lemon balm, passionflower, and lavender. While there is not a great deal of scientific evidence to support the use of these herbs for anxiety, many people find them helpful. Chamomile and lemon balm are thought to work by reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Passionflower is thought to work by increasing levels of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is a neurotransmitter that has calming effects. Lavender is thought to work by reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is an Ayurvedic herb that has been used for centuries to help reduce stress and anxiety. The name Ashwagandha comes from the Sanskrit word meaning “smelling like a horse,” which is fitting since this herb is often used to promote vitality and strength. Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen, which means it helps the body to adapt to stress by reducing the negative effects of stress on the body. This herb has been shown to help improve mood, reduce anxiety and depression, increase energy levels, and improve cognitive function.
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
Chamomile is a dried flower that can be found pre-packaged at most health food stores. Chamomile tea has been used for centuries as a relaxant and sleep aid. Chamomile contains an antioxidant called api genin which binds to specific receptors in the brain that have sedative effects. Chamomile tea can be enjoyed before bedtime or throughout the day when feeling anxious.
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is a dried flower that can be found pre-packaged at most health food stores. Chamomile tea has been used for centuries as a relaxant and sleep aid. Chamomile contains an antioxidant called api genin which binds to specific receptors in the brain that have sedative effects. Chamomile tea can be enjoyed before bedtime or throughout the day when feeling anxious.
Hops (Humulus lupulus)
The female flowers of the hop plant are called “strobiles”, which develop into the fruits known as “cones” or “hop cones”. Hops cone production is concentrated in temperate climates with long days and cool nights, such as those found in the Northern Hemisphere. The hop plant is dioecious, meaning that there are male and female plants; only the female plants produce cones. Male hop plants are typically removed from commercial growers to prevent pollination of the females.
The main active ingredient in hops is humulone, a bitter compound that acts as an alpha acid when added to beer during brewing. This alpha acid content ranges from 3-5% in most hops varieties. Hops also contain other important compounds including beta acids (which contribute to bitterness but not flavor), essential oils (which provide aroma), flavonoids (which add color), tannins (which add astringency) and minerals such as potassium and magnesium.
Hops have been used for centuries both as a flavoring agent in beer and for their purported medicinal properties. Ancient Romans cultivated hops for use in making an early version of what we now know as IPA beer. In medieval Europe, hops were added to ale to help preserve it during storage and transportation; this practice was later adopted by English brewers who used hops extensively in their beers by the 1500s. Today, hops are grown commercially all over the world including countries such as Germany, Czech Republic, United Kingdom, United States, Australia, New Zealand, Italy, Slovenia, Poland, Belgium among others.
Kava (Piper methysticum)
Kava is a tropical evergreen shrub with large, heart-shaped leaves and woody stems. Its name comes from the Polynesian word for “bitter.” The plant is native to the South Pacific islands of Fiji, Samoa, and Vanuatu.
Kava has been used as a ceremonial drink in these cultures for centuries. It is prepared by grinding the roots of the plant into a powder and then mixing it with water. The resulting liquid is usually drunk from a coconut shell or bowl.
The active ingredient in kava is called kavalactones. These substances are thought to act on the brain chemistry in ways that may decrease anxiety and promote relaxation. Kava is available in supplements containing either dried powder or extract from the roots of the plant. It can also be found in capsules, tablets, liquids, and tea bags.
There is some evidence that kava may be effective in treating anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). However, more research is needed to confirm these findings. Kava should not be used by people with liver disease or psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder due to potential risks associated with its use.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
The most common way to use lavender is to add it to a bath or diffuser. The scent of lavender has been shown to be calming and can help reduce anxiety and promote sleep. A 2012 study found that inhaling lavender essential oil was just as effective as taking the drug lorazepam (Ativan) in reducing anxiety before surgery.
Lavender can also be taken orally in capsules, tinctures, or teas. A 2008 study found that taking 80 mg of standardized lavender extract daily helped reduce symptoms of anxiety and improve sleep quality in people with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It is important to note that not all studies have found benefit from taking lavender orally, so it is best to speak with a healthcare provider before trying this method.
If you are looking for an herbal remedy for anxiety,lavender may be worth trying. Be sure to purchase high-quality products from a reputable source and always speak with your healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have any medical conditions, or are taking any medications.”
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)
Lemon balm contains compounds that act on the brain and nervous system to produce a calming effect. These compounds include lemon balm’s signature compound, citronellal, as well as linalool and limonene. Lemon balm also contains flavonoids, which are plant-based compounds with antioxidant properties.
A small body of research suggests that lemon balm may be effective in treating anxiety. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that lemon balm was able to reduce stress and promote relaxation in a group of healthy adults who were exposed to stressful situations. Another study found that lemon balm may help relieve symptoms of anxiety in people with Alzheimer’s disease.
While more research is needed to confirm the effects of lemon balm on anxiety, this herb is generally considered safe for most adults when taken orally in amounts typically found in food or supplements. When applied topically, lemon balm is also considered safe for most adults; however, it can cause skin irritation in some people.
St
John’s Wort
St. John’s wort is a plant with yellow flowers that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including anxiety. The herb is thought to work by increasing levels of serotonin, a chemical in the brain that plays a role in mood. A number of studies have found that St. John’s wort is effective in treating mild to moderate depression, and it may also be helpful for anxiety. While the herb is generally considered safe, it can interact with other medications, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking St. John’s wort for any reason.
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
Valerian is a herb that has been used for centuries to help treat anxiety and other mental health conditions. The root of the plant is typically dried and made into a tea or tincture, which can be taken orally. Some people also apply valerian directly to the skin.
Valerian appears to work by increasing levels of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate communication between nerve cells and has a calming effect on the nervous system. Several studies have found that valerian can effectively reduce symptoms of anxiety, including heart rate and blood pressure changes, insomnia, and nervousness.
While valerian is generally considered safe, it can cause some side effects like headaches, dizziness, and gastrointestinal upset. It can also interact with certain medications like sedatives and antidepressants. If you’re considering taking valerian for anxiety relief, be sure to talk to your doctor first to weigh the risks and benefits.