Herbs have been used for centuries in the treatment of anxiety and panic attacks. Even today's anxiety prescription medication often contains an herbal component. That's because these anxiety herbs have well known abilities to strengthen our body's response to stress and also to promote relaxation and calm.

Herbs for anxiety treatment offer an effective alternative to today's drugs. They're usually available without a prescription, they're less expensive, and they're nonaddictive. On the other hand, herbs for anxiety or any other affliction will work much slower than prescription drugs. Their effects are milder so you'll need to exercise more patience when taking them. But this is an acceptable trade-off for the minimal side effects.

That's not to say there are no side effects. Every chemical action must also have a reaction (side effect) and every body reacts in its own way to herbs and other supplements. So you must be careful with any supplement you take . That's why I recommend that you not take any herbal remedy without first running it by your doctor or pharmacist. Now let's talk about the anxiety herbs themselves.

Valerian

Valerian has long been known as primarily an aid to deep, restful sleep. However it's calming effects can be used during the day as well. Small doses during the day can help control the nervous, anxious feelings you can get when faced with today's stressors.

Kava

Kava, also known as Kava Kava, has been called "nature's answer to stress." It comes to us by way of Oceania and the South Pacific where it has a long history. It's been used in Polynesia, for instance, for many years as the beverage of choice for relaxation. It's also widely used in Europe to treat both insomnia and anxiety.

St. John's Wort

St. John's Wort has been around for a very long time. It was first used in ancient Greece to treat depression. Over the years, its anti-anxiety properties have been discovered and put to use. You must be careful of the side effects of this herbal remedy however because St. John's Wort can interfere with the drugs you may already be taking.

Passion Flower

This herb, native to the new world, was found to be both a useful aid to digestion as well as a strong sedative. The early pilgrims to America used it as a natural tranquilizer and today it works just as well.

Last Word

All of these herbs are useful in the treatment of anxiety disorders and you can find them in most health food stores. They come in different forms, capsules, liquid extracts, and teas. And while they all produce much the same effects generally, you may find that they each work a little differently on you. Which one works best will probably take a little trial and error.

Capsules are the easiest to take while the extracts may be the most flexible; you can add them to just about any of your meals or beverages. Teas can be very flavorful and can give you more enjoyment. But whatever you choose, you'll be getting some serious help from these anxiety herbs, help that can ease your anxiety and stress.