Herbs Growing 101 Herbs Heal Article

What Are The Best Natural Herbs for Anxiety?

There are a number of natural herbs for anxiety, some of which have been shown to be quite effective as an alternative to prescription medications. Herbal remedies for anxiety offer a safe solution without the danger of side effects common to many pharmaceutical drugs.

Although antidepressants are some of the most popular and prescribed meds, they are not always the best solution for anxiety, depression and related mood disorders. Rather than treating the problem at its root, these drugs mask the problem. This can help improve your mood and even you out temporarily, but as soon as you stop taking these medications, your anxiety will return.

Further, prescription anxiety treatments can cause some very serious adverse reactions. In addition to the side effects common to many drugs such as headache, stomach upset and fatigue, they can cause insomnia, sexual problems, abnormal bleeding, manic episodes and seizures. Antidepressants can even worsen the problem to an extreme in some cases, possibly increasing suicidal tendencies.

Although the more serious health issues are rare, they are still something to be concerned with, which is why more and more people are turning to herbal remedies for anxiety. There are many herbs that have been used for centuries to treat anxiety, depression, stress as well as a host of other health conditions. Because of the nutrients they contain, they can not only deal with the issue at its source, but also promote general health and wellness. So the benefit of natural herbs for anxiety are two-fold.

Let's take a look at some of the more popular anxiety herbs:

Ginkgo Biloba is one of the oldest herbal medicines, and is a popular ingredient in many brain health supplements. The extract increases the flow of oxygen to the brain which can reduce stress and anxiety as well as promote a general feeling of wellness.

Bacopin is a small, lesser known herb native to tropical regions. It has been shown in numerous studies to relieve anxiety, depression and related disorders.

Chamomile, most commonly used in teas and herbal baths, acts as a tonic with tranquilizing properties similar to Valium and can reduce stress chemicals within the brain.

Rhodiola, also known as roseroot has various anti-stress and anti-anxiety capabilities.

Passion Flower acts as a natural sedative, akin to chamomile that can help treat general anxiety and restlessness.

All of these natural herbs for anxiety can be found as single ingredient supplements, or in more comprehensive formulas that include herbal extracts, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that can work synergistically to alleviate anxiety and stress. Different combinations work for different people, so it's usually a matter of trial and error to determine what works best for you.

Herbal remedies for anxiety can be an effective natural treatment, but make sure you consult your physician before you begin supplementation. Your doctor will help you decide if herbs for anxiety are right for you, or if prescription medications make more sense.