Herbs to Ease Anxiety
We all know what anxiety feels like: a pit in the stomach, an increased heart rate, and maybe trouble breathing. When we feel this way, it can disrupt our days and put a damper on our mood. When you need relief from anxious thoughts or feelings, turn to the healing power of plants. Anxiety has many effects on the body, and each one can be aided by different herbs. Let’s explore these actions in the hope you find some needed relief!
What Causes Anxiety?
Understanding the causes and symptoms of anxiety is the first step to managing it. Anxiety can manifest in various ways, such as an uneasy stomach, increased heart rate, and racing thoughts. High levels of stress chemicals, like cortisol, can put your body in a heightened state, affecting your endocrine system. Recognizing these symptoms can help you manage stress more effectively.
When to Use Natural Remedies for Anxiety
Stressful Situations
While anxiety is natural, excessive anxiety can be uncomfortable. Whether you're facing a stressful situation or dealing with chronic anxiety, natural remedies can help. Herbs provide immediate relief and help your body manage stress in the long term.
Upset Stomach
When anxiety causes a queasy stomach, soothing the digestive system with gentle herbs can help. Chamomile is perfect for easing nerves and stomach discomfort, and other great options include peppermint and ginger. Sometimes just the action of making a cup of tea can start to ease your anxiety. Small distractions to pull you away from frantic thoughts.
Racing Heart
For a racing heart, herbs that calm the nerves and slow the heart rate, known as beta-blockers, can be effective. Garlic and Lemon Balm are natural remedies that lower blood pressure and are safe for everyday use.
Herbs for Immediate Anxiety Relief
Skullcap
Skullcap is excellent for managing stressful situations or panic/anxiety attacks. However, use it in moderation as it can be hard on the liver. If you need immediate relief, skullcap is an excellent option. Simply add it to hot water, let it steep, and enjoy. The earthy taste can be sweetened with honey or dried fruit.
Kava
Kava, a root from the Pacific Islands, is known for its mildly sedative and spiced brew, making it great for relaxing the body and mind. Use it in moderation to avoid mild intoxication.
Lavender
Lavender essential oil is fantastic for calming the mind through aromatherapy. Diffuse the oil or apply a diluted version topically for best results.
Chamomile
Chamomile is high in alpha-bisabolol, which has a calming effect when inhaled. It’s great for both aromatherapy and as a tea to soothe the stomach and mind. Chamomile can also help with insomnia when used before bed.
You see, there are many herbs to turn to when you're feeling anxious! Now let's turn our focus to long term stress management. If we can help our body build a resilience to stress, then anxiety attacks will become less frequent and more manageable!
Adaptogens for Long-Term Stress Management
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a go-to adaptogen for both immediate anxiety relief and long-term stress management. It lowers your baseline cortisol levels, providing relief for chronic anxiety.
Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Holy Basil, aka Tulsi, improving our cognitive function and mood, relieving symptoms of chronic stress like headaches, exhaustion, and trouble sleeping. Consistent use can lead to significant stress reduction. One study found that after 6 weeks patients saw a relief of these symptoms and an overall reduction in anxiety.
Whether you're dealing with sudden anxiety or chronic stress, plants can help you manage. Brew a cup of tea, load your diffuser with lavender and chamomile oil, take a deep breath, and relax. All is well! Thank you for reading!
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