Battling anxiety has always been a mission of mine as I refuse to take anxiety medication that is unnatural to the body and produces negative side-effects. “Natural remedies have been used for centuries in many cultures to alleviate anxiety and its symptoms with surprising effectiveness.” I am a firm believer that there are natural ways of healing and easing pain.

I have been battling anxiety and panic attacks since I was about seven years old. But as I got older, I was able to research techniques that I can resort to instead of relying on medication.

Along my journey, I was able to come across specific techniques that helped calm my anxiety. They may or may not work for you, but it is worth giving it a shot.

1. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is an essential oil that is therapeutic by nature. It’s widely known for reducing stress, anxiety, and promoting a better night’s sleep. It is commonly used for aromatherapy.

The act of inhaling lavender produces positive effects in one’s mind, body, and nervous system. Research shows, “The results revealed that lavender oil caused significant decreases in blood pressure, heart rate, and skin temperature, which indicated a decrease of autonomic arousal.” Results in feelings of calm and relaxation.

There are several ways you can use lavender oil in your daily life.

You can pour lavender oil drops in a diffuser in the comfort of your home. Also, you can have the convenience of carrying a mini bottle with you, which can be a lifesaver. It’ll be easily accessible whenever you feel your anxiety starts to peak. Some teas include lavender. A suggestion would be to drink chamomille + lavender before bed.

You can shop for Lavender oil online through Amazon, or at your local Whole Foods, Sprouts, or vitamin store.

2. Valerian Root

Valerian root is one of my favorites to use when under a lot of anxiety and lack of sleep. Valerian root has made its name known through various cultures for its relief in anxiety and insomnia.

Research shows the usage of valerenic acid, has been able to inhibit the breakdown of (GABA) gamma-aminobutyric acid. GABA is a chemical messenger that blocks certain brain signals and reduces the amount of activity in your nervous system. As a result, it leads to feelings of calmness and tranquility. Similar to the effects of Valium and Xanax.

Valerian root can be taken in pill or liquid form. It can also be purchased at your local GMC or vitamin shop.

The amount of valerian root one should take would vary upon the person. The typical dosage ranges from 50 milligrams — 500 milligrams (mg). I would suggest trying out lower dosages, as different people require different dosages. I personally only take 60mg, and it works great.

3. Kava Root

Kava short for “Kava Kava” is a herbal plant made up of roots of Piper Methysticum, which can be found in islands around the Pacific Ocean. Kava is gaining widespread recognition for its relaxing, stress-reducing effects. The origins of Kava contain contains compounds called Kavalactones, which are responsible for promoting feelings of relaxation, tranquility, and happiness.

In a recent study, research shows that the usage of Kava “significantly reduced anxiety symptoms in a variety of patient types. This provides good evidence for the use of kava in patients with GAD, nonpsychotic anxiety, and other anxiety-related disorders.”

Kava is known to help with:

• Anxiety
• Stress
• Insomnia
• PMS
• ADHS
• It is also known to prevent seizures, relax muscles, and relieve pain.

You can buy it in its herbal supplement, tea, or liquid form online or at your local health and vitamin shop.

4. Guided Meditation

Meditation is known for its powerful effects in alleviating stress by slowing down racing thoughts that led to stress and anxiety. Just a simple 5-minute meditation where you focus on breathing can calm the mind and slow down the heart rate.

Some apps can help guide you through meditation if you’re not sure where to start. I started by using an app called “The Insight Timer.” It is free and offers different types of meditation exercises that are tailored to your needs.

Final Thoughts

There are many studies and evidence that suggest taking herbal remedies is an effective remedy, and does not produce adverse side effects. Psychological disorders, such as anxiety, have been on the rise of the last decade. If you’re like me and would prefer to take the natural, holistic route, there are remedies out there to depend on that will help you.

I do hope I was able to help guide you in the right direction or at least find a remedy that helps!