Unveiling The Best Natural Medicines for Anxiety

Are you tired of feeling anxious all the time? Seeking natural remedies for your anxiety? Look no further! In this article, we’ll share some of the best natural medicines for anxiety.

The current way we live our lives in the fast lane has made anxiety one of the most common health issues of our time. High expectations in our professional and personal lives, impossible stress and standards of living, and a lack of proper nutrition in our food supply make this a problem that isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. There are so many prescription medications available, but more and more we hear from customers looking for a natural alternative. I think this is because people recognize that simply putting a bandage over this particular problem and leaving it to fester while you are chemically numbed will only cause more damage.

It is far past time to be speaking more openly about lifestyle changes that can get ahead of the problem. While there are many things within the natural medicine cabinet that are great for stopping the urgency of say, an anxiety attack… and those are NO joke… there are so many options from lifestyle changes, herbal supplements, quick diet alterations and more that can be done day-to-day to keep the nervous system healthy and avoid anxiety altogether.

Understanding Anxiety and its Impact on Mental Health

Anxiety is part of the body’s stress response, and it may come as a surprise to learn that it is actually part of how the body protects itself.

We hear the word “stress” today and think about work deadlines or over-scheduled teenagers, but much further back in our human past, it was much different. If you can take your mind back to a simpler, hunter-gatherer time, stress was tangible. We were designed to adapt to environmental stresses involving hot or cold, or drought and lack of food. We were designed also to need to escape the threat of large predators. Our endocrine system, predominantly our adrenal glands handled all that fight or flight control. At one time, fight or flight would have helped us to manage imminent danger- equipping our muscles with the blood flow and oxygen needed to physically carry us away, dilating our pupils so we could see clearly, diverting more resources to our brain so we could think quickly…..Then, once the threat of danger was passed, the same systems were tasked with returning the blood vessels to normal dilation, calming the breathing and producing hormones that brought the fight or flight emotions back under control.

The problem of anxiety is mis-stated when we focus on anxiety being some evil we need to combat. Instead, the problem is found in today’s modern lifestyle that is filled with emotional threats that carry no physical resolution- no “running away” to work out all the hormones coursing through our bodies. Instead, we live in a constant state of anxiety because our threats come fast and continuous… and it affects both our mind and body leading to symptoms such as restlessness, irritability, difficulty concentrating and sleep imbalances. Left in the “on” position, these protective systems can lead to an experience of chronic anxiety which can have a negative impact on mental health, even leading to more serious mental disorders.

The Popularity of Natural Medicines for Anxiety

These days, there is increasing reason to worry about prescriptions that are designed for depression and anxiety. The appeal of natural medicines for anxiety lies in their ability to provide relief without the potential side effects associated with medications. Many people prefer natural remedies because they address the root causes of anxiety rather than just masking the symptoms.

Research-Backed Natural Medicines for Anxiety

Numerous studies have shown the effectiveness of natural medicines in reducing anxiety symptoms. These remedies have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and are now supported by scientific research. By leveraging the power of nature, we can tap into the healing properties of these natural medicines.

Herbal Remedies for Anxiety

Herbs have long been used to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Some of my favorites are found in our Lavender Rose Honey (formerly known as “Happy” latte blendables and Soda Concentrate Formulas.

Kava- Our Kava Kava Extract makes use of my favorite remedy for anxiety attacks. When I had post-partum anxiety attacks, the only thing that could stop them immediately was kava kava. This Polynesian root has a long history of use as part of ceremonies where difficult things were discussed (like war treaties and marriage contracts). It’s like getting a reassuring hug and instantly being flooded with the feeling that everything is going to be alright.

Lavender- Who doesn’t know about lavender? Though mostly, people associate this flower with sleep… it is a supreme soother for the nervous system with a great reputation in depression and anxiety. Whether you just enjoy the smell or drink this herb, it is sure to add a calmness to your day.

Rose- Can you believe that so much benefit can come from a flower? Rose petals have a strong reputation for soothing the heart sick and sad… those who have suffered a hard emotional loss. They have been successful in calming anxiety and sitting with us in our times of grief. I love rose and all it has for us!

St. John's Wort- everything above ground is used in remedies that contain St. John’s wort. It has a long reputation for regulating emotions and bringing depression and anxiety under control naturally. It is worth being aware that St. John’s wort should not be used in clinical dosage for those who are taking an SSRI- in studies it appears to have the ability to regulate the way our body uses serotonin… very useful, unless you are already taking a prescription to do that!

Chamomile- this well-known flower gives more to your nervous system the longer you use it. It is a gentle calming agent with the ability to help just about anyone of any age!

Eleuthero- technically an adaptogen, part of a class of herbs that help the body to adapt to stress, this is one of the most studied herbs out there. This gentle tonic root is perfect to support your body’s ability to get out of its own way and begin to heal.

Essential Oils for Anxiety Relief

Essential oils are very popular these days due to their portability and their similarity to over-the-counter Western medicine. They are incredibly concentrated chemically, much like prescriptions and therefore have the potential to act quickly… but they also carry the downside of disruption to the gentle flow of our natural processes, and they can be downright dangerous in terms of side effects.

Nonetheless, some of the more common (and safe) extracts such as lavender have gained popularity for their ability to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. Oils like this can be diffused, added to bathwater, or applied topically with carrier oils.

Dietary Supplements for Anxiety Management

Certain dietary supplements have been found to be beneficial in managing anxiety. Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, helps the body adapt to stress and reduces anxiety symptoms (and is found in our Adaptogen Blend Extract). Valerian root is another supplement known for its calming effects and ability to improve sleep quality. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, have also been shown to reduce anxiety levels. Finally, I always recommend folks look into increasing their B-Complex intake. This can be in the form of foods such as bee pollen, spirulina or brewer’s yeast and can make a big difference over the long term in regard to depression and anxiety.

Exercise and Reducing Anxiety

Exercise is not only good for physical health but also plays a crucial role in managing anxiety. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals, but it can also encourage the fight or flight response. While regular exercise can help reduce anxiety levels, improve sleep, and enhance overall well-being, it is important to think through what kinds of exercise you choose. If you are stuck in an anxiety loop, it is essential that you switch to non-competitive, low impact types of exercise. It is not a good time to pick up high intensity running sports for most people, but do keep in mind your individuality. For example, if you are already a runner and running outside is your release from a tough day at work, it is likely continuing the practice will do you good. For most people though, the best physical activity would involve gentle movement and low intensity like yoga, walking or dancing.

Mind-Body Techniques for Anxiety Reduction

Mind-body techniques such as meditation (prayer), time in nature (walking barefoot, hiking, gardening, etc.), and deep breathing exercises help reduce anxiety by promoting relaxation and increasing connection to self, community and Creator. These techniques focus on calming the mind and grounding oneself in the present moment. Incorporating these practices into your daily routine can provide long-lasting benefits for anxiety management.

Combining Natural Medicines for a Holistic Approach to Anxiety

While each natural medicine has its own unique benefits, a holistic approach that calls for blending food-based, and herbal therapies with lifestyle changes and exercise can bring a deeper level of healing to anxiety issues. For example, following your yoga practice with a cup of tea made with our Lavender Rose blend and a relaxing in-depth talk with a trusted friend can be surprisingly good medicine! Experimenting with different combinations can help you find what works best for you.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Natural Medicine for Your Anxiety

In conclusion, nature has provided us with a wide array of natural medicines to help manage anxiety. From herbal remedies to essential oils, functional foods and dietary supplements, there are many options to choose from. It's essential to find the right natural medicine that suits your needs and preferences.

Say goodbye to anxiety and hello to a more peaceful and balanced life by exploring the wonders of nature's best natural medicines for anxiety!