Anxiety is a mental state that is characterized by the intense feelings, often when there is nothing to provoke these feelings. There are many types of anxiety disorders, which can include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social phobia, among others. Anxiety is twice as likely to affect women as men, most likely because of hormone fluctuations experienced after puberty. However, there are several herbs that can help with anxiety episodes.10 herbs for anxiety episodes.
Best Herbs for Anxiety
These herbs can help reduce anxiety thanks to their relaxant properties or their influence on hormone levels.
Hops
Hops are sedative in nature, so they help counter anxiety symptoms. Hops also contain phytoestrogenic compounds, which have been known to help ease menopausal symptoms in women by raising estrogen levels. Hops is available in tablet form, or you can boil the dried flowers and drink them as an herbal tea.
Damiana
Damiana is a sedative herb that is most commonly known for its ability to stimulate sex drive in men and women. Damiana has also been known to help lift low moods.
St. John's Wort
This herb has been used for thousands of years for nervous system disorders like anxiety and depression because it is said to help prolong the action of the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, serotonin.
Passion flower
Passion flower has been widely used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders. Passion flower has sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal calming herbal remedy for anxiety episodes.
Valerian
This sedative herb has been popular among menopausal women to help naturally relax the body and brain and achieve a natural sleep. It is also a mild-analgesic, so it can help combat tension-induced headaches.
Soy
Soy has been a commonly used herb among menopausal women because it is known to help symptoms like anxiety and hot flashes thanks to its phytoestrogenic compounds, like the isoflavone genistein.
Black cohosh
Black cohosh also contains phytoestrogens, which helps restore hormone balance by introducing plant-based estrogens into the body. The root is popularly used in menopausal remedies.
Red clover
Red clover is rich in phytoestrogens as well, which helps counter anxiety by increasing estrogen levels when they are low. Also, it has been used for menopause symptoms.
Lavender
Lavender is a calming herb that has been used to treat a number of menopausal symptoms thanks to its soothing and sedative properties. Research has shown the effectiveness of lavender aromatherapy for anxiety and depression.1
Lemon balm
This herb is a popular for treating anxiety episodes because of its stress reducing effects. It is often combined with valerian to manage anxiety and insomnia.
Anxiety is a mental disorder that comes in many forms, ranging from mild to severe. While it is recommended to seek professional treatment if you think you are suffering from an anxiety disorder, there are several herbs that can help. Hops, Damiana, and valerian are among the beneficial herbs that can help lessen anxiety episodes. Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy diet can also help prevent anxiety episodes.
Sources
Footnotes:
- The Journal of Nurse Practitioners. (2020). The Effects of Inhalation Lavender Aromatherapy on Postmenopausal Women's Depression and Anxiety: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Retrieved November 23, 2020 from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1555415520302488