Taking Care Of Myself Naturally

3 Herbal Supplements To Take For Anxiety

by Amelia Graves

The demands of balancing home and work responsibilities can easily become overwhelming. Statistics show that anxiety disorders affect nearly 40 million Americans over the age of 18, but the good news is that these disorders are highly treatable. If you are worried about battling the potential side effects associated with traditional anxiety medications, you might want to turn to an herbal supplement for help instead.

Here are three supplements that will help you keep your anxiety in check.

1. Kava Root

People living in the Pacific Islands have relied on kava root to relax for centuries. Kavalactones, the primary active ingredient in kava root supplements, create a chemical change in the brain that is similar to prescription anti-anxiety medications. Where kava root differs from these pharmaceuticals is in the fact that it does not appear to affect reaction times after ingestion.

A study conducted in 2012 found that individuals taking a 180 mg dose of a kava root supplement experienced no delay in their physical reaction time. This means that you could feasibly operate a vehicle safely while taking kava root, something that might not be possible with a prescription.

2. Lemon Balm

This herb has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient Greek physicians doled out doses to their patients. Lemon balm is gaining traction as a herbal remedy for anxiety because science seems to back the claim that this herb can promote relaxation and feelings of well-being.

A study conducted in 2004 found that participants who ingested lemon balm exhibited an increase in alpha brain waves (which are associated with relaxation) than participants who did not take the supplement. Another study completed in 2004 found that participants who were given lemon balm were able to experience significant improvements in feelings of calmness. If you are looking for an herbal supplement with scientific evidence of success, lemon balm could be a viable solution.

3. Lavender

Another great herbal supplement to help you combat your anxiety is lavender. In addition to its aromatic properties, science is proving that lavender taken as an oral supplement can reduce anxiety as well.

One study has concluded that lavender is beneficial in treating low levels of anxiety, while another study found that oral doses of lavender helped improve sleep quality, and general mental and physical health. Lavender is a safe alternative to pharmaceutical medications designed to treat anxiety and could be helpful in allowing you to keep your anxiety disorder under control.

If you are looking for an herbal answer for your anxiety management, try kava root, lemon balm, or lavender. For more information, contact Gesundheit Health or a similar company.

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