Four Herbs to Help with Anxiety, Naturally.

When I was a teenager we didn’t really have a word for anxiety, I am sure it existed, but I don’t recall ever learning what the definition was. It wasn’t until I started studying naturopathy that I realised I have probably been experiencing anxiety for most of my life.

I remember having a feeling in my chest that was heavy and felt like I couldn’t get enough oxygen, no matter how deep I breathed. It also made doing everyday tasks difficult. I lacked motivation but felt very overwhelmed being on my own at home. Thankfully after learning about anxiety, I was able to understand myself better and understand how to support myself with herbs.

Often people assume that anxiety is a condition that just affects the mind,but it can also produce quite severe physical symptoms. The sympathetic nervous system, or what is more commonly known as the ‘flight or fight’ state, increases the heart rate, reduces digestion, suppresses the immune system and increases adrenalin, as well as numerous other physiological changes. 

Originally we would only go into this flight or fight state when we were running away from danger in the wild, literally running for our lives. These days though, we are often in this state, due to work stressors, family demands or simply the fast pace of life, but without the physical danger. In the short term you may experience bloating, flatulence, cold sores, a persistent sore throat or heart palpitations, symptoms you do not instantly connect with anxiety. Just imagine what long term exposure to anxiety can cause.

As a naturopath, I work with my clients to find ways to reduce the time that they are experiencing this flight or fight state. Nature has given us many ways to deal with anxiety naturally.

The following 4 herbs are my go to herbs when supporting someone experiencing anxiety. Whilst my anxiety is a lot calmer these days, thanks to my education, as well as a specific diet, exercise and regular therapy sessions, these herbs are always within arms reach in case I am in need.

Passionflower:

Think of passionflower as a natural brake for your nervous system. When anxiety makes your mind race and your muscles tense up, passionflower helps slow everything down to a more comfortable pace. It’s particularly effective for those restless feelings when you can’t seem to settle your body or mind. Many people find it helpful for that “wired but tired” state where you’re exhausted but can’t stop thinking. You can enjoy it as a calming tea before bed or take it as a supplement during stressful periods. Unlike some anxiety medications, it won’t make you feel groggy or “out of it” the next day.

Kava:

Imagine kava as a traditional relaxation remedy that’s been used in Pacific Island gatherings for centuries to help people feel socially comfortable and mentally calm. It works like a natural tension reliever, helping to melt away the physical tightness that builds up in your body when you’re anxious. Many people with sleep issues find kava especially helpful because it quiets the overthinking brain that keeps them awake at night. The beauty of kava is that it helps you feel relaxed without making your thinking fuzzy—you stay mentally clear while your body releases tension. When choosing kava products, it’s best to consult a naturopath as poor quality kava from unreputable sources can have a negative effect on your body.

Lavender:

Lavender is like a gentle hug for your nervous system. Most people know it for its calming scent, but lavender does much more than just smell nice—it actually helps your brain and body shift into relaxation mode. What makes lavender special is how it helps both your mind and your stomach. Many people don’t realize how closely connected anxiety and digestive issues are, but lavender addresses both at once. It’s perfect to keep by your bed for those nights when your mind won’t shut off, or you can use it during the day when anxiety starts to build. You can enjoy lavender as a herbal medicine in tincture form, take it as a supplement, or simply enjoy its aroma through essential oils—whatever suits you best.

Zizyphus:

Zizyphus is like a specialized herb for when anxiety shows up with physical symptoms. If you’ve ever experienced a racing heart, sweaty palms, or irritability along with your anxiety, zizyphus might be particularly helpful for you. It’s especially valued for women going through peri/menopause, as it helps with the anxiety that often comes with hot flashes and night sweats. Think of zizyphus as an herb that helps your body stop overreacting to stress—it calms the physical alarm bells while soothing your mind. Many people describe it as helping them feel more grounded and less jumpy when life feels overwhelming.

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When I work with my clients, I am able to offer them access to online prescriptions for natural medicine that will aid to address their anxiety issues. As with all supplements, it is best to work with a naturopath and receive a practitioner-only prescription. This will ensure you are getting the quality and dosage that is best for your health. 

Anxiety is a common issue, fortunately there are many ways we can help support your nervous system and body as a whole and get you back on track. These are just a few herbs that I recommend to my clients (and use personally), but there are many more nutrients and dietary changes that can help too.  I hope this information is helpful for you too – Tara.