Many people who suffer from anxiety and anxiety disorders find themselves a little wary of chemical options for treating their conditions. In hopes of seeking out a different route, they look at natural anxiety medications. While not all natural anxiety medications are recommended by medical professionals, many patients do find relief in their use.
There are some very common natural anxiety medications that have proven themselves useful for patients. How well they work will depend on the patient in question. Many of these natural anxiety medications have been in use for centuries and continue to hold popularity among those who prefer to avoid chemical treatments.
Top Natural Anxiety Medications
A number of natural and herbal supplements are widely used for the treatment of anxiety, among other things. Some of the most common include:
Valerian – The extract of the valerian plant has proven itself effective for treatment of anxiety with patients and even in clinical trials. This supplement is normally taken in doses up to 500 mg. The benefits of this particular herb is that it can have almost immediate impacts on symptoms and it has not shown itself to be addictive.
Passion flower – Extracts made from passion flowers have also proven useful as natural anxiety medications. The extract contains a substance known as vitexin, which is known to have relaxing properties.
Green tea – This particular herbal agent has shown itself useful for treating a number of conditions and preventing a host of others. The amino acid, L-theanine, found in green tea is also known to have an anti-anxiety effect. It is often taken in doses up to 300 mg. People can gain some benefits by drinking tea, but for anxiety it is most commonly taken in supplement form.
Kava – This herbal remedy has been shown to reduce the effects of anxiety, but it also has been linked to liver damage. It is not longer widely recommended for use.
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Aromatherapy – Some people find that certain natural smells help relieve tension and reduce the symptoms of anxiety. Aromatherapy using sandalwood, lavender and jasmine have all proven useful for some patients.
Natural anxiety medications have been proven in some circles to have a very good impact on the symptoms of anxiety disorders. These herbal supplements, however, are not a panacea. Patients who choose to use them, should make sure their doctors are aware of their choice. It can be dangerous to mix certain herbal remedies with other medications, especially some of those used to treat anxiety.
Before deciding to use natural anxiety medications for the treatment of diagnosed anxiety disorders, it does pay to discuss the pros and cons with a doctor. Patients who choose to go this route should be mindful of potential side effects and should gauge reactions objectively to make sure the herbs are working for them.
