Were you aware that anxiety is by far one of the most common medical problems in today's society? It is estimated that it affects as many as forty million Americans. Typical symptoms of anxiety include a general feeling of panic and doom. The sufferers of this affliction experience rapid breathing, a tightness in the chest, nausea, diarrhea and frequent urination. To relieve this problem common treatments include psychotherapy as well as prescription medication. There are also many recognized herbal remedies which are available from your corner drug store and others which you can easily grow in your own herb garden.



Common Anxiety Herbal Medicine Remedies

The most commonly used herbal remedies are Valerian Root, Kava Kava, Chamomile, Lavender and Peppermint. In most countries throughout the world you are able to purchase these extracts in tablet form at most drug and grocery stores. These same stores will also usually stock the extracts in herbal teas. Health food stores will usually supply these remedies as ground or rushed herbs with which you can then use to brew your own teas.

Valerian root - This herb is available as tablet, herb or tea and is best taken shortly before bedtime. Most professionals believe that it is safe for short-term use. If you brew your own Valerian tea, use 1 teaspoon of ground Valerian Root per pint of boiling water. You should probably add a little honey, lemon, licorice or peppermint to the tea. Most people find that Valerian by itself has quite an unpleasant taste. Ensure that the Valerian root is kept well away from your cats as it is similar to catnip. If your cats find your Valerian stash they will have an absolutely wonderful time, however, but they might not leave enough of the root for your tea.

Kava Kava - In the South pacific region an anxiety herbal medicine remedy known as Kava Kava is often used to relieve the symptoms of anxiety. Kava kava is generally available in a tablet, herb or drink form or it can even be chewed raw. It is recommended that Kava Kava is taken shortly before you retire for the night. Studies have revealed that prolonged consumption of this herb may contribute to liver toxicity problems.

Chamomile - This is a common ragweed flower that when brewed, like you do with tea leaves, the liquid gives the consumer a calming sensation. You can buy this herbal tea already made up or you can brew your own using approximately one ounce of dried Chamomile blossoms in each pint of boiling water. The problem with using Chamomile for any extended period is that it may well aggravate any seasonal allergies you generally suffer from.

Lavender - This plant is well known as an anxiety herbal medicine and has been used in Western Europe for hundreds of years. The dried lavender flowers can be brewed in teas - simply add two teaspoons of dried flowers to each pint of boiling water. The oils extracted from Lavender flowers, leaves and stems can also be used as topical remedies. An on the spot anxiety remedy is to pick a few fresh Lavender leaves straight off the plant, grind them between your thumb and forefinger and then rub your forehead with the lavender oil you have just extracted. You will then enjoy the soothing lavender scent every time you inhale.

Peppermint - Is known to relieve upset stomach symptoms associated with anxiety. Dried peppermint leaves can be brewed into teas and, similar to lavender, the oils extracted from the plant can be used as topical remedies.

Before you start taking anxiety herbal medicine you should consult with your health care provider to ensure that any anxiety herbal medicine treatments you propose to take are safe and effective and will not affect any other medication you may be taking.