Anxiety
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is a psychiatric disorder characterized by:
- restlessness
- palpitations and tachycardia (rapid heart beat)
- shortness of breath
- difficulty sleeping
- sweating
- headaches
- nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- trembling and dizziness
- feeling irritability, worried or fearful
- anticipation of misfortune
- the inability to concentrate or think clearly
- tense muscles
How is anxiety treated?
The first choice treatment for anxiety should be cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT, as it is the most effective treatment available. Traditional medicines such as benzodiazepines can be used to relieve anxiety, but should be used together with CBT.
The use of natural therapies such as calming herbs with sedative actions can provide relief of mild anxiety, nervous tension and stress. Natural therapies should be used in conjunction with CBT or counseling and relaxation techniques. Try the following natural therapies to ease anxiety:
- Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
- Passion flower (Passiflora incarnata)
- Hops (Humulus lupulus)
- Gentian (Gentiana lutea)
- Vitamin B Complex
Valerian, passion flower and hops are herbs with relaxing and sedative properties. They are particularly useful in people who have mild anxiety with sleeping difficulties.
Stomach calming gentian is used in the temporary relief of nervous dyspepsia or indigestion associated with anxiety.
Vitamin B complex is an essential vitamin to keep the nervous system functioning healthily. It increases the body’s stress coping abilities and is particularly useful for anxiety triggered by stress.
Anxiety is best managed by drug free therapies. As previously mentioned, cognitive behavioral therapy is the most effective treatment for anxiety. Learning relaxation techniques and using it in times of stress and anxiety is also a very good management technique. Reduce stress in your life and start some calming exercise such as yoga, tai chi, or meditation.
Aromatherapy is an option to relieve stress and anxiety. The scent if lavender is a calming and can promote relaxation and sleep. Try using lavender essential oil in an oil burner or a lavender pillow at bedtime.