Natural remedies to beat anxiety

Anxiety levels vary from person to person with some experiencing frequent anxiety which can sometimes lead to attacks. These can be extremely debilitating for an individual but there are a number of natural remedies to counteract this stress-related issue. It’s important to consult with a medical professional before using any natural remedies, particularly if other prescription drugs are being taken.

1. Chamomile

Comprising two chemicals – apigenin and luteolin – chamomile is a natural remedy known to significantly decrease anxiety symptoms and can be taken as supplements or in a tea. In a study undertaken by the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, patients with Generalised Anxiety Disorder who took chamomile experienced lower anxiety symptoms than those taking placebos.

2. Green tea

This well-known hot beverage contains an amino acid, L-theanine, which assists in curbing a rising heart rate and blood pressure with some studies showing a decrease in anxiety.

3. Hops

This doesn’t mean a higher intake of beer! The tranquilising benefits of hops come in the form of a volatile oil which is available in extracts and tinctures, as well as aromatherapy oils. Hops is a natural remedy generally used as a sedative to promote sleep.

4. Valerian

While it is known to reduce anxiety, valerian contains sedative compounds, often used to treat insomnia. This natural remedy is often combined with other sedative herbs including hops, chamomile and lemon balm.

5. Lemon balm

Coming in the form of tea, capsules or tinctures, lemon balm is a natural remedy used to reduce anxiety as well as a sleep aid. However, it’s important not to overuse the substance as too much lemon balm can lead to increased anxiety.

6. Lavender

Inhaling lavender oil placed in a bath, on a pillow, or right off the skin has seen reductions in anxiety. It’s often used for massages as it has been seen to lower systolic pressure which is associated with stress.

7. Passionflower

Named for its striking appearance, this is a sedative that has been found to reduce symptoms of anxiety as well as insomnia. It shouldn’t be taken for longer than a month and is best used for mild anxiety.

8. Omega-3

Found in oily, cold-water fish including salmon, anchovies and sardines, omega-3 has a number of beneficial effects. Taking this supplement is good for the heart, protects against depression and reduces anxiety. This amazing natural remedy also lift a person’s mood by lowering the levels of stress chemicals – adrenaline and cortisol.

9. Heat things up

If you’re looking to lower anxiety levels and reduce muscle tension then opt for a hot bath, jacuzzi, sauna or steam room. Heating the body may alter the neural circuits which control mood, thereby uplifting spirits. And, for added benefits, include Epsom salts – the magnesium sulphate lowers blood pressure.

10. Sunlight

Get to a beach and take in some Vitamin D – one of the simplest natural remedies. Vitamin D has been shown to decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety. This can also increase the body temperature which, as mentioned before, will improve mood.

11. Exercise

This is one of the best anti-anxiety natural remedies. Through exercise, the body is sent feel-good endorphins which fight depression and anxiety in the short and long-term. Exercise also increases body heat which, again alters neural circuits to uplift the individual.

12. A ‘forest bath’

The Japanese Shinrin-yoku or ‘forest bath’ is essentially walking through a beautiful forest for about 20 minutes. Our daily lives are overrun with concrete buildings, tar roads and metal screens, none of which soothe the soul. Taking some time out in nature – even if it’s a park or tree-lined road – will lower stress hormone levels and decrease anxiety.

Complementary to all of the above are Eugenie Rowson’s Natural Remedies. Great formula’s to try are the Stress Exhaustion and Burnout Formula which assists with feelings of being overwhelmed, low energy levels, exhaustion and burnout. Or contact Eugenie Rowson for a consultation on 076 410 8262 or visit www.theremedyshoppe.co.za