Daily pressures can generate stress and anxiety, thus causing alterations in the immune system and causing health problems such as headaches, digestive problems, insomnia and depression, among others. Fortunately, many natural supplements and some physical and mental techniques have now been found to help combat anxiety .
Among the best physical and mental techniques to help manage anxiety are eating a healthy diet, exercising, and meditating. Fortunately in nature it is possible to find an immense range of plants that serve as natural remedies that help calm anxiety and are also a good source of nutrients.
7 supplements and herbs to calm anxiety
1. Hops
Hops is a very powerful sedative that has a number of uses, such as reducing nerves and tension. In addition, studies have been carried out with rodents and with humans where it has been found that hops have a sedative effect that helps to significantly reduce anxiety. However, before consuming hops you should keep the following in mind:
- Do not consume it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Avoid combining it with alcohol or other sedatives, as it can cause a higher level of drowsiness.
2. Lemon balm
Lemon balm is a delicious and refreshing drink that helps calm anxiety, nerves and feel more energetic.
It is in the mint family, it can be easily grown in the garden. However, you must be very careful when consuming it, as there is research that claims that it can reduce attention or focus towards things, and even induce you to a lethargic state. Therefore, it is not advisable to ingest lemon balm at times when you have to be very attentive.
3. Lavender essential oil
Lavender scented oil is commonly used to relieve headaches, but lavender oil has been shown to work and is very powerful for treating other types of conditions such as stress, insomnia, and to decrease anxiety.
If you take a little of this oil during the day, therefore, you will reduce stress and you will be calmer, but it is not recommended to mix it with other sedatives as it can cause you more drowsiness.
4. Folic Acid
Low levels of folic acid are related to problems such as depression, so to have a good mood and control anxiety it is recommended that you consume folic acid.
Generally, this supplement is started by women when they know they are pregnant; however, any woman of childbearing age should take 400 mcg of folic acid routinely.
The foods richest in folic acid are dark green vegetables, lentils, peas, and dried beans.
5 L-theanine
L-theanine is an amino acid that helps to relax and control anxiety. This amino acid is found in green tea leaves and, according to research by Frank Kurtis, contains a minor calming effect, but when combined with caffeine it improves attention and slows down the nerves.
On the other hand, if you are taking medications for high blood pressure, cancer or high cholesterol, it is extremely important to consult with your doctor before taking L-theanine to inform you about possible interactions with sedatives or stimulants.
6. Magnesium
Athletes or anyone under prolonged stress tend to lower magnesium levels in the body. A magnesium deficiency can lead to increased anxiety as well as reduced serotonin levels
Magnesium is found naturally in grains, legumes, dairy products, and other supplements.
Some antibiotics, muscle relaxants, diuretics and medications for hypertension can interact negatively with magnesium, so it is recommended that you speak with your trusted doctor before taking this mineral.
7. Chamomile
Chamomile is one of the most popular calming teas, which contains more properties that help improve health and calm anxiety.
This tea has no sedative properties; however, it is advisable to consult with your trusted doctor before consuming it, since it has been proven that it can have interactions with contraceptive pills, warfarin, tamoxifen, some immunosuppressants and other sedatives.
Conclution
Today there are many techniques and medications to combat stress and anxiety, but remember that the healthiest for health is always natural.
Fortunately nature is wise and provides us with many benefits through its plants, but it is extremely important that you consult with your doctor before starting to take any of these natural remedies since it is possible that these act negatively in the body when combined with other types of medications.
Reference
- Yael Grauer. 10 Natural Herbs and Supplements to Help Calm Anxiety. For Livestrong [Revised January 2017]
