Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Herbs & Vitamins For Anxiety







Herbs have been used for thousands of years by many people throughout the world to treat a variety off illnesses and daily upsets and ailments. There has been a lot of success in using herbs to treat disorders such as anxiety and depression. Taken daily, herbs can be used to substitute the need for medications. Vitamins are used to maintain healthy body functions. B vitamins help to keep the nervous system healthy and strong. Consider also looking into yoga and meditation as these have also helped a great number of people cope with stress and anxiety.


Herbs


Passion flower is used in many natural treatments for anxiety. It relieves hypertension, depression, stress, insomnia and nervous exhaustion. It is a natural narcotic and when taken daily can become mildly addictive, but there are no side effects other than a drowsy feeling and it can be a better choice for those who are considering anxiety medication.


Lavender is the most popular herb used to treat anxiety and depression. It is an excellent treatment for panic attacks and has the ability to tone and relax the nervous system in general. It can also benefit those suffering from anxiety-based insomnia. Lavender can be purchased as an essential oil and rubbed on the wrists during times of stress.


Valerian has a similar constitution to Valium. It is a relaxant, a pain killer and a sedative often used to treat insomnia. It tends to have a slight numbing effect and may be useful in assisting during times of severe stress or shock.


Scullcap is a tonic for the nervous system. For those whose anxiety has made them high-strung, jumpy, jittery and quick to respond with panic, scullcap can help strengthen and calm the nerves. It soothes and calms and it can also help treat insomnia when combined with valerian.


Drinking a tea made from the herbs of your choice is a powerful and direct way to ingest the benefits of each herb. Take one to two teaspoons of the herb and add it to a cup of boiling water. Allow it to steep for three to five minutes and then strain and drink it. This should be done between one and three times a day. These herbs can also be purchased in capsule or pill form from a health food store.


Always consult your doctor before taking any form of herbal supplement.


Vitamins


The most beneficial vitamins for stress relief are B vitamins, which assist in keeping the nervous system healthy and support the metabolism of food into energy. They keep stress levels down by helping the body function at its best. Vitamin B1 uplifts the spirit and mood and vitamin B12 helps to create the chemicals in the brain that help you feel good. Vitamin B5 is used to create anti-stress hormones and vitamin B6 helps to keep the nervous system healthy and strong.








Be sure to see a doctor before taking any supplements.

Tags: nervous system, nervous system healthy, system healthy, anxiety depression, before taking