Holistic Anti-Anxiety Remedies
Many people experience anxiety in their lives. Some of it is just part of everyday matters that comes in ebbs and flows. However, sometimes anxiety can get out of control. When this happens, people often turn to prescription drugs. Some of these drugs can help people to overcome their anxiety. However, they often come with side-effects, and some of them can be highly addictive. For these reasons, people often choose holistic alternatives to anti-anxiety medications. Keep in mind that these alternatives are generally not FDA approved as treatments for any illnesses. However, many people have reported good results with natural alternatives. Below is a list that includes some of the most popular, natural anti-anxiety remedies.
Essential Oils
Aromatherapy doesn’t intuitively seem like a way to treat any ailment. However, many people report it to be highly effective. While most medications are administered intravenously or as pills, aromatherapy involves breathing in the scents of natural plant oils. Usually, pills take time to digest and pass through various organs before they have an effect on the body. For this reason, some drugs are injected, so that they get into the bloodstream faster. Now, consider how quickly you are able to identify a scent through your nose. The idea here is that your nose is a direct channel to your brain, and certain scents may have calming and other properties associated with them. Think of the smell of gas or fire as raising alarm bells in your brain. With essential oils, the opposite is said to be true. We often associate our memories with different sensations, including sights, sounds, and scents. In this way, certain oils may help with anxiety. Furthermore, there have been studies that show measurable effects. For example, one study measured the antioxidant effects of peppermint oil inhalation.
CBD Oil
This is perhaps the most popular of holistic anti-anxiety remedies. CBD oil comes from hemp plants. People associate cannabis with its psychoactive effects. However, these are brought on by Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), another chemical found in the plant. Cannabidiol (CBD) has no psychoactive properties. Instead, it is used to treat anxiety, pain, and other ailments. Due to its lack of mind-altering effects, CBD was legalized at the federal level in the US in 2018. Since its legalization, there has been an explosion in its use. It is now a booming industry, rivaling the biggest drug manufacturers in the world.
Kratom Powder
This is a far lesser-known plant substance than CBD. Kratom powder comes from the dried leaves of the mitragyna speciosa plant. This tree grows in the tropical climate of Southeast Asia, most notably Indonesia. Indigenous populations have been using it for centuries for its reported medicinal properties. Some people brew it as a tea, while others pack the powder into capsules. You could even consider a kratom tincture, similar to the popular CBD tinctures that are on the market today. While kratom is light on peer-reviewed research, it’s said to have stimulant properties in small doses, and anti-anxiety, pain-relief properties in larger doses. It’s even reported as a possible treatment for opioid addiction. Keep in mind that it has not been approved by the FDA for human consumption, despite its widespread use in Asia over the centuries.
Start With Healthy Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Anxiety
No matter which dietary supplements you choose to try in order to aid your anxiety, it’s best to attack the root of your problems. This means lifestyle and behavioral changes that improve your physical and mental health. Regular exercise and a healthy diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients will help you to feel better on all fronts. If you’re a vegetarian, then make sure that you’re getting enough protein. If you’re a meat-eater, then make sure you’re getting enough fiber. Combine this with the right approach to treating the symptoms of your anxiety, and you’ll be on your way towards a more fulfilling life. Just keep in mind that you should always consult with your physician before making any changes to your diet, and before taking any medications or other treatments.
