Herbs for Anxiety

One of the oldest known treatment methods for anxiety is the use of medicinal herbs. Medicinal herbs have been used for hundreds, possibly even thousands of years, to help with anxiety problems. Some of the more popular herbs that are used for this condition include Kava, St. John's Wort and Valerian.

Kava and St. John's Wort for Anxiety

Kava has been used for many years to help with the treatment of anxiety, and was recently approved by Germany's Commission E for the treatment of anxiety. Commission E is a government agency in Germany that tests the effectiveness and safety of medicinal herbs. Kava works by helping to depress actions in the brain's limbic system, which helps to control emotions. This helps to calm th nerves, in a manner similar to many prescription antianxiety drugs.

St. John's wort has been used in Europe for decades for the treatment of anxiety, and has recently become a popular treatment option in the United States as well. The exact reason that St. John's wort is so effective is not currently known, but it has been proven effective in many studies. St. John's wort can be taken in supplemental form, and can also be taken as a tea throughout the day.

Valerian for St. John's Wort

Valerian is one of the oldest known herbal remedies for anxiety and has been used for hundreds of years. Some medical researchers believe that valerian works by binding to receptors in the brain, and then causes the brain to exert sedative and calming effects on the body and the mind.

Although these herbs can be very effective in helping to treat anxiety, they should never be used to replace any prescription drugs by those that suffer from severe anxiety. These herbs can however be used in addition to any conventional drugs or medications that are currently being used, as well as other forms of natural medicine, such as homeopathy or nutritional supplements.

Read on Herbal Treatments for DepressionNatural Depression TreatmentsUsing Herbs for Chronic Stress and Anxiety

Sources:

Duke, James. The Green Pharmacy Guide to Healing Foods: Proven Natural Remedies to Treat and Prevent More Than 80 Common Health Concerns Rodale Books, 2009.

Murray, Michael & Pizzorno, Joseph & Pizzorno, Lara. The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods Atria, 2005.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.

Copyright Jeffrey Fisher. Contact the author to obtain permission for republication. Share Article