Panic attacks, social phobias and general nervousness—anxiety can affect you in many ways. While extreme cases may lead to an anxiety disorder, natural remedies may help control mild symptoms.
Not only are these remedies easy to make and use, they also have fewer side effects than common prescription meds and do not cause addictions. One such herb that can alter your mood and control your anxiety levels is valerian root.
Valerian Root For Anxiety
The root of the valerian plant (Valeriana officinalis) is a potent sedative and reduces anxiety by inducing sleep. [1] Valerenic acid present in it gets converted to GABA (a neurotransmitter) in the central nervous system, which improves communication between individual neurons and unclogs your mind.
According to a study carried out in 2002, valerian extract had a significant effect on the patients of generalized anxiety disorder. [2] Another study found that, when combined with St John’s Wort, it could be beneficial in treating depression, too.[1]
How To Use It
While the unpleasant smell may put many off, a cup of warm tea made with valerian root is an excellent way to control racing thoughts and heart palpitations. You can combine it with other anti-anxiety herbs like hops, lemon balm and chamomile to enhance its power and taste.
- Make a tea by steeping 1tsp dried valerian root with six to eight fresh mint or lemon balm leaves in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink once cool. Have it three times a day.
- Alternatively, you can make an anti-anxiety tincture. Learn how to make it here.
For more interesting stories, visit our Health page and read about other Natural Remedies here.
Read More:
5 Tips To Deal With Everyday Anxiety
Relaxation Techniques For Anxiety
Why Essential Oils Can Help With Anxiety
References:
1. Lakhan SE, Vieira KF. Nutritional and herbal supplements for anxiety and anxiety-related disorders: systematic review. Nutr J. 2010 Oct 7;9:42. doi:10.1186/1475-2891-9-42. Review. PubMed PMID: 20929532; PubMed Central PMCID:PMC2959081.
2. Andreatini R, Sartori VA, Seabra ML, Leite JR. Effect of valepotriates (valerian extract) in generalized anxiety disorder: a randomized placebo-controlled pilot study. Phytother Res. 2002 Nov;16(7):650-4. PubMed PMID:12410546.
