5 Herbs that Soothe Anxiety

There is a lot of information - and misinformation - circulating about anti-anxiety herbs. There really are legitimate, herbs that soothe anxiety. At the same time, anxiety is not an insignificant disorder, and shouldn't always be handled independently. Maintaining consistent communication about your wellness journey with a physician, naturopath, counselor, or even a trusted loved one is key.

Herbs have been used medicinally for millenia and anxiety is something they can help with. Some herbs contain MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitors, which are antidepressants found in commercial drugs. Here is a list of some of nature's remedies for anxiety and just how and why they can help.  

St. John's Wort

You've probably heard about this herb. St. John's Wort has become the subject of much attention in recent years, but it is really a very old herb. It was even used by knights in the Crusades to heal wounds. One of its best-known active compounds is hypericin, and some clinical studies show that it alone has a positive effect on depression and anxiety.

Hypericin has also been shown to be more effective than the drugs Elavil and Tofranil. And that is just one of its antidepressant compounds! Its MAO inhibitory effects are debatable, but treat this herb as if it were an MAO inhibitor and avoid alcohol and foods that are smoked and/or pickled when you are taking it.

Get more info and buy St. John's Wort here!

Kava Kava root

Sleep disturbances are a significant factor for those dealing with anxiety. Kava kava's main contribution to relieving the symptoms of depression is promoting a restful sleep. The calming effects of this South Pacific herb enhance mood, promoting peace and a more hopeful outlook. It should not be used in conjunction with alcohol, due to the risk of liver damage.

Get Kava Kava Root here or Kava Kava Root Powder here!

Valerian root

This sedative herb induces restful sleep, and also relaxes muscles. It is called a "nervine" in Western herbalism, which refers to its effect on the central nervous system - it helps relieve nervousness and irritability, both common components of depression. The active constituents of valerian are called valepotriates. It is best taken in capsule form, as the tea has an unpleasant odor (not unlike dirty socks).

Get Valerian Root here or Valerian Root Powder here!

Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

This little-known treatment for anxiety is actually quite effective - it has more antidepressant compounds than St. John's Wort, but it has not enjoyed the same press. Many of its compounds are, in fact, MAO inhibitors. Better known for its role in candy flavoring, the root contains glycyrrhizin, which stimulates the adrenal glands to produce hydrocortisone in the body. Interestingly, adrenal gland dysfunction has been linked to depression and related disorders.

Licorice root can be drunk as a tea, up to three cups a day, or taken in capsule form. But be cautious about taking licorice for prolonged periods of time (more than 4 weeks) as it can cause water retention and high blood pressure.

Get Licorice Root here or Licorice Root Powder Here!

Rosemary

Wonderfully safe, rosemary stimulates the central nervous system. The dried herb can be used in pillows to help sleep and calm nerves. Rosemary herb can also be made into a piney-tasting tea and drunk to soothe nervous feelings.

Get Rosemary Leaf here, Rosemary Leaf Powder here, or Rosemary essential oil here!

Herbs may help you kick anxiety to the curb completely or aid in other anti-anxiety treatments you may be using. No matter what supplements or medications you choose, be aware that managing stress and maintaining other aspects of wellness is always important.