While anxiety medications are being increasingly criticized, there is a growing body of opinion which supports the use of herbal remedies for anxiety. Everybody has anxious moments and we are all under stress at some point during the day. It could be a short term form of anxiety where we are afraid of what will happen in a potentially dangerous situation. That can range from running for the bus, meeting a tight deadline, preparing for an exam or a job interview.
It is however when anxiety becomes a chronic condition that the sufferer will feel its effects negatively impacting on their lives. Looking after a terminally ill person or being unable to escape from a violent relationship will cause us continuous anxiety and the ability to self repair the damaged cells is compromised. Symptoms of this anxiety will range from insomnia, bad temper, incessant worry and inability to concentrate. Physical symptoms can include headaches, irregular heart beat, nausea and chest pains.
Anti depressants can treat anxiety but they can only offer temporary relief in some cases and will never be the real cure that we want. They will not fix the cause and/or cure this condition which affects more than 75 million people worldwide. Herbal remedies for anxiety are becoming more popular because there are concerns about the side effects of these anti depressants and especially their reaction with other drugs, alcohol and other substances. There are paradoxical reactions too in that mania, hallucinations and hostility and rage may be side effects. That is why herbal remedies for anxiety are now regarded as a much safer option.
Are herbal remedies for anxiety the answer? Certainly their side effects are much less alarming and various studies have shown them to be just as effective as the drugs. Herbal anxiety remedy will include herbs such as Kava, Passion Flower and St. John Wort. In one study, Passion flower was found to be just as effective as Valium or Xanax and there was less drowsiness and a definite improvement in job performance. Valerian was also found to be effective as an anxiolytic.
An alternative to a herbal anxiety remedy is to consider using a biofeedback machine which helps you to activate your body relaxation response in just a few minutes. This can also be used in conjunction with herbal remedies.