Challenges in our daily lives from our jobs, home, and family can quickly lead to stress and anxiety. Some people even suffer from ongoing anxiety disorders, which affects millions of men and women of all ages. Regardless of whether you have an ongoing anxiety disorder or are just going through a stressful period of time in your life, there are natural remedies using herbs to help reduce stress and anxiety.
The following are five herbs you can use, and best of all, they do not make you sleepy!
Ashwagandha
Scientific studies conducted in 2000 and 2012 have shown taking ashwagandha with 1 to 5% anolides, one or two times a day resulted in a reduction of stress hormones without any serious side effects. Additionally, ashwagandha provides the same anxiety relief effects as the prescription medication lorazepam. For the best results, take 300 mg of ashwagandha with 1 to 5% anolides, one or two times daily.
Lavender
In 2010, a double-blind study was conducted to compare the health benefits of lavender oil to lorazepam. The study compared subjects taking either lavender supplements or lorazepam. The outcome: Lavender was just as effective at treating persistent and generalized anxiety as lorazepam, but without the drowsy side-effects. You can take 80 mg of a lavender supplement daily, as well as use lavender oil for aromatherapy to help alleviate stress and anxiety.
L-Theanine
L-Theanine is considered an effective treatment to help reduce anxiety and stress. While not exactly an herb, it is a water-soluble amino acid. It is primarily found in black tea and green tea, as well as a supplement. L-Theanine helps increase alpha brain waves, which are responsible for creating a relaxed state of mind, but still keeps you alert and awake.
For mild stress and anxiety brew a cup of either green tea or black tea. Green tea contains about 8 mg of L-Theanine, while black tea contains around 25 mg. You can also take a daily supplement of 200 mg of L-Theanine for increased effects or if you dislike tea.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm extract helps reduce stress, while increasing alertness and calmness. It is normally found mixed in with certain herbs, but is also available as a supplement or for aromatherapy by itself. Mix between one quarter to 1 teaspoon lemon balm in hot water for a nice tea or use between 300 to 500 mg in aromatherapy.
Passionflower
Passionflower is effective drug-free treatment for anxiety and helps to lower and reduce anxiety levels, without feeling drowsy. In addition, passionflower helps alleviate depression, irritability, and agitation. You can drink passionflower tea three times a day, or add about 45 drops of passionflower extract to your favourite warm beverage, or take a 90 mg supplement.
For more information about natural treatments for stress and anxiety, please feel free to contact the Homeopathic Plus Centre today by calling either 905.286.9545 or 416.825.9289 or bookyour appointment here.
Recent Comments