What is Anxiety?

If you are suddenly finding yourself nervous, scared, really worried and have no clue why you are feeling this way you may be part of a growing number of people suffering from anxiety. A person experiencing an anxiety attack usually feels an overwhelming sense of terror or impending doom. Unlike fear in response to danger, anxiety is an expression of a generalized, undefined fear.  

This is not something to be ashamed of, nor is it something that requires a large amount of medication to treat. Of course, there are some people who only find relief from anxiety in prescription drugs, but many others find more natural solutions in home remedies that are extremely effective.

Working to find the best solution for you can be a rather trying experience, but there are plenty of great home remedies for anxiety that can prove to be extremely effective.

Natural Treatments for Anxiety

Natural treatments to relieve anxiety include:

1. Reduce alcohol intake

It is largely reported by people suffering from anxiety that they feel much more anxious after they have consumed large amounts of alcohol. Therefore, reducing the intake of alcohol is one of the most effective treatments for reducing your anxiety level. Reducing alcohol intake is only effective for people who drink moderately or excessively.

2. Get enough sleep

A lack of sleep has been attributed to increasing the occurrence of anxiety attacks. Therefore, you must ensure that you are getting sufficient sleep to ensure you are well rested. In addition to getting enough sleep you should take additional B vitamins (such as those found in most vitamin supplements) as they help to relieve anxiety.

3. Reduce intake of sweeteners

Many people have seen a reduction in their anxiety levels by reducing their intake of sweeteners. This includes natural sugar as well as artificial sweeteners.  You should watch your reactions to certain sweeteners as there are some that can make the symptoms worse whilst others may not bother you at all.  If there is a sweetener that you can safely use, you should stick with it, while avoiding the others that aggravate your anxiety.

4. Reduce caffeine intake

Due to the increase in nervousness, it is also recommended that you avoid any products that are extremely high in caffeine.  Because caffeine is extremely likely to spike anxiety, many people who are anxious tend to suffer much more than necessary.  Reducing caffeine intake often provides rapid improvement. If you are in a habit of drinking coffee each morning, you can simply switch to decaffeinated in order to reduce your caffeine intake while still enjoying your morning cup of coffee.

5. Start walking

Another suggested home remedy that has provided great benefits is getting up and starting to walk around or exercise whenever you feel extremely anxious.  By getting up and moving around you are taking your mind off of the anxiety that you are feeling and allowing yourself to slowly calm down at your own pace.  This is extremely effective for most people since it will allow you to refocus your attention on the activity you are doing, rather than on the actual anxiety that you are presently feeling.

6. Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the practice of inhaling the scent of essential oils to improve your well-being. They work by stimulating the smell receptors in your nose which in turn send messages to your nervous system. They also have a subtle effect on the body’s chemical and energy systems and so is often used as a natural remedy to relieve anxiety and stress.

Essential oils which can be used to relieve the symptoms of anxiety include:

Valerian

This is a herb that has been used since ancient times. It contains compounds that promote sleep and calm nerves and so has a mild sedative effect on the body. A few drops of valerian oil is usually added to an aromatherapy diffuser.

Lavender

This reduces anxiety by its effect on the limbic system, the part of the brain that controls emotions. Enjoy a relaxing lavender bath by combining several drops of lavender oil with a teaspoon of carrier oil or an unscented bath gel. Stir the mixture into warm bathwater just before entering.

Jasmine

This relieves anxiety without causing sleepiness. It can be inhaled directly from the bottle or allow the scent to fill the room through a diffuser.

Rose

Rose essential oil is extracted from rose petals and has a floral scent known to relax the senses. A rose aromatherapy footbath can reduce anxiety in pregnant women during labor. Soak your feet in a bowl filled with warm water and diluted rose essential oil. You can also add rose oil to your favorite non-scented moisturizer and massage into skin.

7. Herbs/Supplements

Some of the herbs/supplements which can be used to relieve anxiety include:

Garlic

Garlic encourages the release of serotonin, a brain chemical that helps to regulate mood. High serotonin levels calm the nerves and relieve anxiety. Various commercial products are available. Alternatively, you can prepare an infusion by chopping 6 garlic cloves for each cup of cool water and steeping for six hours; drink 1 cup a day.

Skullcap

Skullcap is a Chinese herb which relaxes the central nervous system and eases stress. To help calm the nerves, use 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb in a cup of boiling water; steep for 15 minutes, strain, and drink up to 3 cups daily.

Valerian

Valerian is a calming herb which relieves stress and promotes sleep. It is available in tablet form but an infusion can be prepared by  putting 2 teaspoons of powdered herb in a cup of water; steep for ten minutes. Strain, and drink 1 cup before bed.

Calcium and Magnesium

Calcium and magnesium have been shown to calm the nerves and reduce anxiety when taken together.

Selenium

Selenium has been shown to reduce anxiety, depression, and fatigue. In fact taking selenium with vitamin E and other antioxidants can improve mood and increase blood flow to the brain.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)

Vitamin B5 (or pantothenic acid) is referred to as an “antistress” vitamin because of its ability to relieve anxiety and depression. Choose a multivitamin containing vitamin B5 or a B vitamin complex.

By avoiding the use of medication to treat anxiety you are sure to feel much better about yourself. Additionally you will be able to avoid many of the side effects that are usually experienced when using medical treatment.

You may not be able to eliminate all anxiety from your life, but you may be able to minimise its frequency and intensity by getting regular exercise, practicing relaxation techniques and eating a well-balanced diet. It may take a while to find the perfect solution for your needs, depending on exactly what factors are encouraging the stress, but a solution really is possible with a bit of effort.