Anxiety is like a thorn in society’s heart that affects the lives of many in one way or another. There are remedies and medical treatments that have been made known to all people to overcome this disorder. But have you ever thought of using plants to treat anxiety?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an anxiety disorder is a persistent feeling of being anxious or dread, which can interfere with daily life. It is not the same as occasionally worrying about things or experiencing anxiety due to stressful life events. People living with anxiety disorder experience frequent anxiety for months if not years.
Happiful Magazine, a lifestyle publication dedicated to promoting good mental health and well-being has shared four powerful herbs that have been found helpful in combating anxiety disorders.
Lavender
Lavender is probably one of the first plants that comes to mind when you think of relaxing effects, and its distinct aroma is extremely comfortable. It’s so effective that a study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine discovered that lavender has the same effect on generalised anxiety as 0.5mg of lorazepam (a medicine used to treat anxiety and insomnia). Medication is an important and life-changing tool for many people, and it should not be ignored; nevertheless, the study does emphasise how powerful lavender can be in relaxing our nervous system.
Rosemary
Rosemary and lavender are similar in many ways. It has a similar leaf structure and can develop into a hardy bush that blooms every year. It’s also been shown to have a significant impact on our anxiety levels. In a study published in the Journal of Holistic Nursing, researchers looked at how rosemary oil affected the pulse rates and anxiety levels of graduate nursing students. They discovered that rosemary oil was useful in lowering anxiety.
Chamomile
Chamomile tea is likely one of the first suggestions you’ll find when it comes to using plants to relieve anxiety, and with good cause. In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Trials, researchers discovered a significantly greater reduction in mean total anxiety symptom scores for chamomile versus placebo’ when participants took pharmaceutical-grade chamomile extract daily for eight weeks. The chamomile you cultivate at home will not be pharmaceutical-grade, but there is joy in caring for it and utilizing it during times of stress and anxiety.
Lemon balm
The research on lemon balm for anxiety is not as comprehensive as the other herbs mentioned here, but the early results are promising. In a systematic review of the effects of lemon balm on depression and anxiety in clinical trials, lemon balm was found to improve mean anxiety and depression scores when compared to a placebo, particularly in an acute setting – though the review recommends additional research to confirm the link.
Also see: How to create a soothing bedtime routine
