Natural Remedies for Reducing Anxiety and Stress
Many people who seek treatment for anxiety or stess often consider antipsychotic medications as a weapon of last resort. However, it's no secret that these drugs can come with a long list of unwanted side effects, such as personality changes, reduced sexual drive, sleep disorders, potential for addiction, mood swings, and even depression.
But don't despair, there's good news too. If you're looking for healthier, safer, and more natural options, we've got a list of some excellent natural remedies to help you combat anxiety and stress. They might just be the lifeline you're looking for.
Do I Need to Seek Medical Help for Being Anxious?
Anxiety and stress are not just emotional states; they have a profound effect on our nervous system, often manifesting when faced with challenging situations or problems that you find difficult to deal with. These feelings typically arise from the body's natural response to perceived threats. This physiological reaction can cause various symptoms, including rapid heartbeat, sweating, and heightened alertness. Fortunately, once we learn to manage the situation or find solutions to our problems, the nervous system calms down, restoring our body and mind to a state of balance.
It's normal for a human to occasionally feel anxious, nervous, or worried depending on the uncomfortable situations and problems they encounter. You don't need to pop a pill for every bout of anxiety. However, if you find yourself constantly on edge, worried or anxious, even without any obvious reason, you might be dealing with an anxiety disorder.
In such cases, it's highly recommended that you consult with a psychiatrist promptly. While natural remedies can help manage symptoms, it's crucial to have professional support and potentially medication, to fully address the issue. Your mental health matters, and sometimes, seeking help is the bravest thing you can do.
Natural Remedies That Help Fight Mental Disorders
Catnip
Catnip, also fondly known as catmint, is more than just your feline friend's favorite toy. This herb, native to Europe and Asia, belongs to the mint family and carries a rich history of medicinal use across various ancient cultures.
Today, herbalists and traditional practitioners use catnip to treat a variety of conditions. These include indigestion, gas, and stomach cramps, to fevers, worms, insomnia, and even headaches. But one of catnip's standout benefits is its soothing effect on the mind and body, making it a favorite choice for relieving anxiety and stress.
Potential Side Effects and AvailabilityWhile extensive research is still ongoing to fully understand the efficacy and potential side effects of catnip, it appears to be generally safe for adult use. You can find this herb in various forms on the market, including dietary supplements, extracts, teas, juices, and tinctures.
Interesting fact: some individuals choose to smoke catnip as a method to alleviate anxiety. However, many herbal practitioners caution against this practice, citing potential safety concerns.
So, whether you're dealing with a stressful day or searching for a natural way to ease anxiety, consider giving catnip a try. Just maybe keep it out of reach from your furry friends!
Lemon balm
Lemon balm (also known as Melissa) is another member of the mint family that possesses strong anti-anxiety property. Since the ancient times, it is reputed for its calming effect on mind and body.
Research suggests that lemon balm can effectively reduce anxiety and promote better sleep. Interestingly, the herb's calming prowess often shines when it's combined with other anti-anxiety herbs like chamomile, valerian, and hops.
But lemon balm's benefits don't stop at anxiety relief. It's also been found effective in managing a variety of other conditions, from Alzheimer's disease and cold sores, to dyspepsia, colic, stomach discomfort, restlessness, and even headaches.
Side effects and availability
Ready to add a zesty twist to your natural remedy routine? Lemon balm can be found in various forms, including dietary supplements, teas, tinctures, and oils. While studies to date have not reported significant side effects of lemon balm, it's always recommended to stick to appropriate quantities and use it for short durations.
So, the next time you're feeling stressed or anxious, consider reaching for the lemon balm. It might just be the zesty, calming touch you need!
Passionflower
Passionflower (also known as Passion vine) is one of the popular herbal remedies for anxiety and stress. It also has a long history of using as a folk remedy.
In clinical studies, passionflower has proven its efficacy in reducing the symptoms of mild to moderate level anxiety.
A study done by the researchers of the Cochrane Collaboration reported that passionflower showed nearly similar efficacy compared to several drugs of benzodiazepine class.
Side effects and availability: Several studies suggest that the effects of passionflower is milder than Kava Kava (another potential natural remedy for anxiety), however, unlike Kava Kava, passionflower has fewer side effects.
According to medlineplus, this ingredient is safe when taken short-term as medicine. It is available in the market as dietary supplements, teas, infusions, liquid extracts, and tinctures.
Disclosure: If you want to buy any of the natural remedies mentioned above, don't think they are safe and harmless. As a health care professional, I am requesting you to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before purchasing any herbal products containing any of the ingredient I mentioned above.
Just because a product is natural does not mean it's harmless!
You may have an underlying condition that you are not concerned of; hence, any medicinal substance either herbal or pharmaceutical can worsen your condition.
Tips: whenever you're about to buy any medicinal products, always ask your pharmacist the following questions:
- What are the side effects of the product?
- How many studies have done to evaluate the product?
- What is the reputation of the manufacturer when it comes to quality?
- Which quality guideline does the manufacturer ensured?
- How many regulatory authorities have approved the product (if the product is distributed to overseas countries)?
