Anxiety Disorder
An anxiety disorder is a state of fear, usually arising from a particular cause or threat. It is part of everyone's life at some point, but it is not normal to feel anxious all the time. The condition should not be debilitating.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include restlessness, tension, irritability, impatience or poor concentration. With a severe anxiety disorder, you may notice changes to your physical health like headache, pain in the jaw, muscle tension, insomnia, dry mouth, chest tightness, fatigue, indigestion, bloating and excessive sweating.
Causes
The condition can be caused by stress, too much caffeine, hypoglycemia or food allergies. It may also indicate that you are deficient in nutritional elements like magnesium, niacin, thiamine or other minerals. It is fequently linked to a psychological or emotional problem. It can be caused by an emotional conflict.
Cautions
If anxiety is preventing you from doing the things you need to do, see your doctor for evaluation.
Herbal Treatments
Internal Applications
- Passionflower – this herb is a sedative, but does not cause as much drowsiness like many prescription medications. It calms anxiety disorders and increases concentration. Passionflower does have some side effects like nausea, drowsiness, vomiting and a rapid heartbeat. It should not be used by pregnant or nursing women, children or people suffering from kidney or liver disease.
- Valerian – another herbal sedative, valerian relieves insomnia and mild anxiety. It takes a few weeks to be effective. Side effects of valerian may include headache, mild indigestion, palpitations and dizziness. A standard dose should be 150 mg three times a day for anxiety.
- Kava – studies on this herb supports the use of Kava Refer to Efficacy of kava extract for treating this condition: systematic review and meta-analysis. Pittler MH, Ernst. Follow directions closely and don't overdose on kava, as it may cause liver damage at high doses. A standard dose should be 250 mg three times per day with meals.
- Ashwagandha – this herb strengthens the nervous system. Ayurvedic practitioners traditionally use Ashwagandha to promote gentle relaxation and emotional balance. Take 1 capsule or ½ teaspoon of tincture twice a day.
- California poppy – this herb is reported to calming effects. Take ½ teaspoon of tincture or 2 capsules 3 or 4 times per day or as instructed on the label.
- Catnip – this herb soothes and calms. An infusion using 1 ounce of herb to 1 pint of boiling water is a good remedy for this condition and upset stomach. Let it cool before drinking.
- Chamomile – this herb is a gentle tonic to the nerves. Add 1 ounce of blossoms to 1 pint of water and let it boil for 15 minutes. Strain the infusion and add honey to taste.
- Fennel – this herb works well for anxiety-related stomach upsets. Drink fennel tea before or after meals for the best effect. There are no known side effects.
- Feverfew – this herb calms the nerves and relieves migraines. It can also help with headache. Make an herbal tea by adding 1 ounce of herb to 1 pint of boiling water. Let it cool first, then drink.
- Hops – this soothing herb is often added to sleep pillows for insomnia. To make an herbal tea, add one teaspoon of herb in one cup of water and let it boil for ten minutes. Strain before drinking. Add honey and lemon if desired.
- Lemon balm – this herb is soothing and relaxing. An herbal tea of lemon balm will calm the nerves with no side effects.
- Lavender - 2-3 grams dried flowers infused in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes may be taken 3-4 times a day.
Aromatherapy
Essential oils associated with calming, soothing or refreshing may be useful in aiding anxiety symptoms. The following oils can be used in combination in massage, bath or burner:
- Basil
- Lavender
- Sandalwood
- Bergamot
- Jasmine
- Ylang Ylang
Suggested combinations:
- basil 3 drops, bergamot 3 drops, lavender 4 drops
- bergamot 3 drops, lavender 4 drops, ylang ylang 3 drops