Anxiety is a completely normal thing that most of us experience at some point in our lives, usually, as a response to a stressful situation. This feeling is more present now than it was in the past. This is because the world is changing progressively and people are faced with many problems like deadlines, peer pressure, family problems, constant relocations, and many other issues. Of course, the reaction to these situations depends on the people. Some are able to deal with the problem in a stress-free manner. However, some people see these things as a threat and they start feeling like they are in danger. This is how anxiety occurs. It is followed by increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, rapid breathing, panic attacks, sweating, nausea and similar. Luckily, there are many activities to overcome anxiety nowadays, and today we are going to focus on herbs for anxiety.
1. Ashwagandha
This plant comes from India, and it translates to ‘smell of a horse’. It was used a lot in the past; however, it became extremely popular in today’s herbal medicine as well.
Ashwagandha, together with basil and liquorice, belongs to a group of adaptogenic herbs. These herbs help people to balance their hormones. And, by doing that it helps with stress, mood changes, inability to sleep, helps them relax, and offers support to the entire nervous system.
This plant proved to be really helpful for patients dealing with extreme anxiety and other common mental disorders. It gives the best results if used consistently and on an everyday basis.
For the fastest results, tincture works best, as it is rapidly infused into the body and system. Also, it is possible to buy ashwagandha whole root or powdered root, or even capsules.
2. Lavender
Lavender, just like ashwagandha, has no side effects, unlike those anti-anxiety medications. Its essential oil is used in aromatherapy to help people relax.
Also, many doctors and therapists advise their patients to use it in their households when they have problems sleeping or when they have difficulties dealing with stressful situations.
You can use lavender tea for drinking, you can rub a little bit of lavender essential oil around your nose or spray it on your pillow before sleeping, or even put a plant of lavender inside your bedroom. There are many ways you can use lavender to help you relax, sleep better.
So, the next time you think that the best way to deal with anxiety is to call moving professionals and move somewhere else, try having a lavender tea first.
Taken on a daily basis, lavender will help you relax and deal with anxiety. Alt.tag: Lavender flower.
3. Rhodiola
Many people who have weak stomachs prefer drinking Rhodiola over anything else. Besides the fact that it helps you deal with anxiety, stress, and depression, it will not make you feel sick like some medications or feel drowsy like some herbal teas.
What makes this herb amazing is that after taking it, it stimulates dopamine and serotonin, the so-called ‘happy hormones’ or ‘feel-good hormones’. However, you must pay attention to the dosage.
Rhodiola can affect energy levels, and sometimes you may feel like you drank a can of energy drink. Yes, in some situations this effect may be desired, for example, if you are trying to cope with anxiety after moving.
But, in other situations, having too much of this herb will not allow you to go to sleep or relax. That is why it is extremely important to take the right amount of dosage.
4. Chamomile
It comes as no surprise that this plant is on our list. Chamomile is used everywhere in the world in order to help people relax and deal with anxiety.
Also, many people who suffer from digestion or insomnia are advised to include chamomile in their diet. Most people drink simple chamomile tea with drops of lemon and a spoonful of honey.
But, those that do not like the taste, take chamomile capsules. Moreover, chamomile is great for mixing with other teas as it has a mild and sweet taste. Also, it is completely safe to use for any purpose or occasion.
And unlike other medications and some herbal teas, chamomile is utterly safe for pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding.
Drinking chamomile tea before bed will help you sleep and help you deal with anxiety. Alt.tag: A cup of Chamomile tea.
5. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm or the ‘gladdening herb’ has been used in the herbal medicine for hundreds of years.
This plant comes in all shapes and sizes and it is used for dealing with many problems. It encourages people to relax, relieves anxiety, improves mood, and reduces stress.
Moreover, it is great for helping with headaches and digestion. So, if you are dealing with a lot of stress in your life, consider using lemon balm. You can drink it as tea, or mix it together with your favourite tea by adding a lemon balm extract. Or, if tea is not your thing, you can buy it in a capsule form.
However, bear in mind that this herb is known for causing very mild sedation. That is, it can make your reactions and alertness slower. So, when you drink it, make sure that you do not have some exam or presentation afterwards.
It is best to drink Lemon Balm tea before going to sleep! Avoid drinking it in the morning. Alt.tag: Leaves of lemon balm.
6. Skullcap
This herb is very similar to to the Lemon Balm. That is, it has similar sedative properties. So, again, be careful when you consume it. Evenings are definitely the best time for consuming it as it will help you relax, slow down, and be less stressed-out.
Skullcap works best if you use it dried, for example in tea. It has a mild and gentle taste and smell, and you can easily mix it with other herbs as well.
Skullcap was actually used in numerous Native American tribes and was called a ‘Woman’s Herb’, but it is beneficial for all, men, women and children. It can really help people find balance and stop reacting aggressively and stressfully to any triggers coming from the outside world.
