From the Guidelines
Herbal remedies such as valerian root, chamomile tea, passionflower, lavender, lemon balm, ashwagandha, and kava may help manage anxiety symptoms, but their effectiveness and safety vary, and they should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially for severe anxiety or when combined with other medications. When considering herbal remedies for anxiety disorders, it's essential to evaluate the available evidence and prioritize the most recent and highest-quality studies. However, the provided studies 1 do not directly address the effectiveness of herbal remedies for anxiety disorders. The most relevant information comes from general knowledge and previous studies on herbal remedies, which suggest that:
- Valerian root (300-600mg before bedtime) can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality by increasing GABA levels in the brain.
- Chamomile tea (1-4 cups daily) contains apigenin, which binds to benzodiazepine receptors and may reduce anxiety.
- Passionflower (45 drops of liquid extract daily or 90mg in capsule form) works similarly by increasing GABA.
- Lavender (80-160mg of lavender oil capsules daily or aromatherapy) has calming effects through its interaction with the limbic system.
- Lemon balm (300-600mg daily) may reduce stress hormones and promote relaxation.
- Ashwagandha (300-500mg twice daily) helps regulate cortisol levels.
- Kava (70-210mg of kavalactones daily) affects GABA receptors but should be used cautiously due to potential liver concerns. It's crucial to note that while these herbs may help with mild to moderate anxiety, severe anxiety may require professional treatment, and the use of herbal remedies should be discussed with a healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective management of anxiety symptoms.