Herbs that Help Ease Anxiety Symptoms

Rebecca Lewis September 11, 2013

One in five British adults suffers from anxiety issues, according to the Office for National Statistics. Anxiety is characterised by a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear, which can be mild or severe. Feeling anxious sometimes is normal. But people with generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) find it hard to control their worries.

You probably have heard about some natural techniques to ease anxiety. What about herbal remedies? Research has shown that some herbs have the ability to ease symptoms of anxiety. Here they are:

Holy Basil

Also known as “tulsi”, this herb has been used for centuries throughout Asia and India to promote mental, physical and even spiritual health. Holy basil is a known adaptogen (plants that can reduce the body’s cellular sensitivity to stress). Many people who regularly consume this herb report higher feelings of calmness and relaxation.

Chamomile

This popular bedtime tea is consumed by many to ease stress and enhance the body’s ability to relax. In a 2009 study by the University of Pennsylvania, chamomile extract has been found to alleviate anxiety symptoms in a "clinically meaningful and statistically significant" way.

Lavender

Want to have a good night’s sleep? Place a bottle of lavender oil near you or drop a bit of it on your pillow. Many studies have proven the relaxing and mind-calming effects of lavender. Just the scent of lavender has been proven to improve mood and concentration, slow down the nervous system, and alleviate stress, according to the University of Maryland Medical Centre. Aromatherapists also use it in inhalation therapy to ease headache, exhaustion and nervous disorder.

Skullcap

This herb from the mint family works well with valerian root in reducing stress and nervous system tension, fighting insomnia, and alleviating anxiety symptoms. Skullcap is usually consumed in tea form, offering an instant feeling of restfulness. This herb also has anti-inflammatory, antiviral and anti-fungal properties so it is also used in the treatment of many health problems such as migraine, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic pain, poor blood circulation, insomnia and muscle cramps.

Kava

This herb is used as a ceremonial beverage in the traditional Pacific Island culture. Kava, particularly its roots, has been shown to effectively promote relaxation and focus. According to the University of Maryland Medical Centre, this herb may elevate mood, well being, and contentment, and produce a feeling of relaxation. However, there is serious concern that kava may cause liver damage, but scientists still have to find out more about this.

Ashwagandha

Studies have shown that taking ashwagandha can normalise free radical damage caused by stress, preventing premature ageing and other chronic illnesses. It is said to work better than pharmaceutical drugs for anxiety. Research by the Life Extension Foundation (LEF) suggests that ashwagandha could protect the nervous system, which in turn improve the body’s response to chronic anxiety.

5-HTP

5-HTP is a naturally occurring amino acid and a chemical by-product of the protein building block L-tryptophan. It is a natural alternative to anti-anxiety medications and is commonly used in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. It is essential in the production of the neurotransmitter called serotonin (the feel-good chemical in the brain) and the "sleep" hormone melatonin.

If your anxiety is already interfering with your daily activities, consider talking to a therapist. You may need a more comprehensive intervention programme to combat anxiety disorder.