Natural Remedies for Chronic Stress and Anxiety

The public is constantly bombarded with ads for prescription medicines for every condition imaginable, so it's easy to ignore the simpler, more accessible remedies that are provided by nature. This can be especially true for people suffering from chronic stress and/or anxiety who are so desperate for help that they may accept the first thing the doctor prescribes as a solution. For people who want to take a different path to relieving the effects of these debilitating conditions—and the other problems that often accompany them, such as fatigue, insomnia and depression--there are many herbal routes to relief. Some are well known, while others have slipped into relative obscurity. But, familiar or not, these are herbs whose efficacy has been known about for centuries. Valerian Root Valerian (which is not, as is often assumed, related in any way to the chemical compound valium) is an herbal remedy that is used for de-stressing and for sleep. Supplied in capsule form because the root itself has an unpleasant scent and taste, it is taken by many before bedtime to calm the senses and alleviate the anxiety that can lead to insomnia. Chamomile This well-known herb can be drunk as a tea or taken in capsule form. One compound in chamomile, Matricaria recutita, is supposed to bind to the same brain receptors that drugs like Valium do; so for those times that are particularly anxiety-producing, making a simple cup of tea may be the only thing you need to do in order to quiet your mind and nerves down. Ashwagandha This powerful, ancient herb actually belongs to the same family as the tomato. But unlike its red, round cousin, Ashwagandha has long been believed to help strengthen the immune system, relieve stress, reduce difficulty concentrating and diminish anxiety and depression without causing drowsiness in the user. Traditionally taken in capsule form, Ashwagandha is also available as a tea or as a powder that can be dissolved into warm milk. L-theanine (Green Tea) Almost everyone has heard about some of the benefits of drinking green tea, which contains the amino acid L-theanine. L-theanine is reputed to lower heart rate and blood pressure, so it makes sense that this all-around beneficial tea would help relieve general anxiety. These are only four examples of the many remedies that nature provides; a little investigation into natural options will produce a surprisingly lengthy list of herbs that have beneficial effects when used as directed. When using herbal remedies, remember to use only organic herbs from reputable suppliers, to avoid any unpleasant—and sometimes dangerous—side effects. The next time you feel anxious or stressed out, instead of automatically taking a pill, think about making a cup of chamomile tea as an alternative way to get calm and centered.