5 Holistic Remedies To Ease Anxiety Naturally

It’s normal to feel anxious. Everyday stressors – like work and family – might be the cause. Or, maybe you have an anxiety disorder, the most common mental illness in America. It affects about 40 million adults aged 18 and up. That’s 18 percent of the population!¹

Fortunately, anxiety is treatable. Does it mean you need to pop a few pills? Definitely not! With these five holistic remedies, you can naturally control anxiety.

1. Lavender

Nothing says “stress relief” like a lavender. It promotes calmness and relaxation, making it perfect for anxiety. This fragrant herb will also improve your mood.

In fact, lavender oil has been used in medical settings. The aroma has been shown to help dental patients and mothers during the postpartum period.² It can even ease anxiety right after breast biopsy surgery.³

2. Rosemary

Rosemary is another fragrant herb that reduces anxiety. The essential oil is especially useful. According to a research, it can benefit anyone from nervous nursing students to elderly women.^{4 5}

For a greater effect, combine rosemary oil with lavender. You can also take a whiff from the bottle or add it to a diffuser. Want to use fresh rosemary? Toss it in your rice, pasta, or salad. Even a live rosemary plant will work wonders.

3. Ginseng

For centuries, ancient Chinese medicine has used ginseng for anxiety. Even the Western world uses it to enhance mood.

Ginseng works by inhibiting monoamine oxidase – an enzyme that breaks down “feel good” neurotransmitters. Drugs called monoamine oxidase inhibitors or MAOIs are actually prescribed to block this enzyme. However, ginseng can get the job done – naturally.⁶

To use it, add dried ginseng powder to your favorite meals. You can also drink ginseng tea or take capsules.

4. Valerian

You might know valerian as a natural sedative. But it can control anxious feelings, too! This herb increases the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid – the primary neurotransmitter of the central nervous system.⁷

Valerian is so effective that it can manage anxiety in bipolar disorder.⁸ Yet, even if you don’t have bipolar, you can reap the benefits of valerian.

Like most herbs, valerian is available as a tea and capsule. The essential oil can also be used in aromatherapy.

5. Lemon Balm

Despite the name, lemon balm isn’t a type of lemon. It’s actually a part of the mint family. Lemon balm has also been used to treat anxiety since the Middle Ages.⁹

In a study by Neuropsychopharmacology, researchers found that lemon balm enhances both mood and memory. It also induces sleep and relaxation, making it ideal for those stressful days.¹⁰

Lemon balm works really well with valerian. Together, this combination kicks insomnia and anxiety to the curb.¹¹

Safety Notes

Some herbs can interact with certain conditions or medications. This can pose a risk to your health. Before using any of these natural remedies, talk to your doctor.

These herbs are just one part of anxiety relief. Practice healthy lifestyle habits like eating well, exercising, and getting enough rest. It’s also crucial to avoid smoking cigarettes. You might think that it eases anxiety, but it can actually make it worse.¹²