6 Natural Remedies To Treat Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety disorder is a mental health condition characterized by excessive and persistent worry or fear that is often disproportionate to the situation or circumstances. This type of anxiety is more severe than the normal feelings of anxiety or stress that people experience in their daily lives. Anxiety disorders can interfere with daily activities, relationships, and overall quality of life.

There are several types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and specific phobias. Each type of anxiety disorder has its own set of symptoms, but some common symptoms include restlessness, fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.

Anxiety disorders can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. They are treatable, and treatment may involve therapy, medication, or a combination of both. It's essential to seek professional help if you're experiencing symptoms of an anxiety disorder, as early intervention can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of developing other mental health conditions.

# Kava

For many years, Kava has been recognized as a natural remedy for anxiety relief. This beverage is prepared from the roots of the Piper methysticum plant and is not associated with sedative effects, despite its anxiolytic properties. However, caution should be exercised when using Kava, as rare but severe side effects like liver poisoning may occur.

To use Kava, create a paste using a small amount of the plant roots and boil it with one cup of water to produce a tea. Allow the tea to cool before consumption.

# Passiflora Incarnata

Passionflower, also known as Passiflora, is a plant recognized for its anxiolytic properties. Its flowers, fruit, and bark contain compounds responsible for its calming effects, which are attributed to its ability to modulate the GABA system in the nervous system. Unlike some other remedies, no side effects have been reported from passionflower consumption.

To use passionflower, dry the herb and create a powder from a small quantity of the dried plant material. Then, add a few tablespoons of this powder to a cup of boiling water, allowing it to steep for several minutes. Afterward, strain the tea and enjoy.

# Lavender

Lavender has a long history of use as a natural remedy for anxiety. It contains over 100 active compounds, with linalool and linalyl acetate being the primary components responsible for its anxiolytic effects. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before consuming lavender, as research has shown that it may cause side effects such as rapid heartbeat, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, stomach discomfort, belching, and bad breath.

To use lavender, a few drops of lavender oil can be added to a diffuser to inhale the aroma. Another method is to massage a few drops onto the inner aspect of the wrist to allow for inhalation of the aroma.

# Chamomile

Studies indicate that chamomile tea can be an effective natural remedy for generalized anxiety disorder. It is believed that the flavonoids present in chamomile have a calming effect by influencing the transmission of neurotransmitters like GABA, dopamine, noradrenaline, and serotonin, or by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which is crucial in stress response.

To use chamomile, take a few tablespoons of dried whole chamomile and add it to a cup of boiling water. Allow it to steep for a few minutes, then filter and enjoy the relaxing benefits of the tea.

# Saffron

The primary bioactive compound found in saffron is Safranal, which is responsible for its anxiolytic properties as well as its characteristic aroma.

To use saffron, add some saffron strands to a cup of boiling water and allow it to steep for a few minutes. Then, filter the mixture and enjoy the fragrant drink as you relax.

# Valerian

Valerian root is known to possess anti-anxiety properties due to the presence of valerenic acid and valepotriates, which give the root its anxiolytic and sedative effects.

To use valerian root, take some dried root and add it to a cup of boiling water. Allow it to steep for a few minutes, then filter the mixture and consume it before bedtime.