Anxiety Self Help: Herbal Supplements Versus Modern Drugs

If you suffer from chronic anxiety and panic attacks, then the last thing you need is another health concern. Sadly, the side effects from modern medications are all too often of real concern. As an alternative, more and more people are seriously considering more natural approaches to preventing panics because they are thought to be safer and more effective.

Natural and herbal do not automatically mean mean better. The active ingredients in herbal remedies are chemicals. These affect your body and can react with other drugs you may be taking. You should consult your physician to find out what the best options for you are.

Given proper precautions, herbal remedies are a viable option. Using vitamins, herbs, supplements, and simple dietary adjustments can be very effective. It is not uncommon for patients to report better results using them.

For example, an herb commonly used is dandelion. Its leaves and roots contain B vitamins and are used in supplements to support overall body health. Thiamine, riboflavin, and other B vitamins can promote better mental function. As a side effect, dandelion may provide some relief from anxiety. While sometimes used in salads, dandelion is usually steeped in hot water making an infusion, or “tea.”

Another common herb is chamomile, which is used in sleep-inducing potions. It has also been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety. As with dandelion, dried chamomile flowers are steeped to make a sweet tea. It is also known to reduce fever, elevate mood, and enhance metabolism.

To get the best use of any herb, the quality of the ingredients is very important; do not use herbs that are not pharmaceutical grade. Meeting this standard means the plants have been studied at the molecular level and that their quality is monitored by proper authorities. You are placing your health in the hands of the person or business from which you purchase your remedies; be careful. Given proper quality oversight by the proper authorities, you can be rest assured that you know exactly what you are putting in your body.

Natural herbs are not witchcraft; they have been used by millions of people for centuries. As long as you consult with your physician first and purchase your herbs from a reputable source, these supplements can be an attractive option to patients concerned about the safety of new-fangled drugs. One of the best results of using older approaches is the greater peace of mind they often give.

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