Feeling nervous or out of control is something that many can relate to in recent months. Anxiety can manifest itself in many ways, but this disorder can also have long-lasting effects if untreated. At Wapo Beauty, we understand that mental health and wellness go hand-in-hand. In this article, we’ll dig deep beneath the skin and use nature to tackle one of the most common mental health disorders. Read on to discover how you can calm your mind with these herbs for anxiety.
Around 18.5% of people in Ireland suffer from a mental health disorder, including anxiety and depression. Furthermore, women are twice as likely to experience anxiety. Suffering from anxiety is a part of modern life; however, if left unchecked, it can lead to more difficulties down the line. For a proper diagnosis, it’s best to visit with your physician. If you’re not sure whether you are suffering from this disorder, know that there are symptoms to look for. Below, you’ll find some common symptoms of generalised anxiety disorder according to the NHS:
Additionally, other physical symptoms of this disorder include dry mouth, sweating, muscle tension, and an upset stomach. Anxiety can seriously affect people’s thought patterns and make them more negative and obsessive. Usually, people who suffer from this disorder tend to avoid social situations.
We recommend speaking to a doctor if you feel you are suffering from anxiety. However, these natural herbs can help you relax and improve your mood:
This shrub has been used as a ceremonial drink by Pacific Islanders for centuries. Essentially, the root of the kava plant is ground down to make a powder that can become a paste or a tea. Kavalactones are the active ingredient in kava, which give it a healing power. In other words, this ingredient helps reduce anxiety, pain, and protects neurons from damage. It’s common to consume Kava in tea form, capsule form, or as a tincture.
Ashwagandha belongs to a group of herbal adaptogens or herbs which help the body regulate and manage stress. Not to mention, this herb is prominent in Ayurvedic medicine with its use dating back 3,000 years. In clinical trials, this medicinal herb was shown to improve sleep and reduce cortisol levels of trial participants. Alongside reducing anxiety and stress, scientists believe that this herb can help combat depression. Depending on your preference, you can take ashwagandha as a tablet, capsule, or in tincture form.
With a reputation that precedes it, valerian root has long been used as a calming sleep aid. Also known as “nature’s tranquillizer”, it can even help reduce pain from menstrual cramps, menopause, and restless leg syndrome. The active ingredients in valerian root, valerenic acid and isovaleric acid, produce feelings of calmness and tranquillity. Scientists suggest that this root may help regulate serotonin in the brain, which can improve a person’s mood. According to your preferences, you can consume this root in tea form or as a dietary supplement.
The flowers from St. John’s Wort are harvested and used to create herbal remedies such as teas, tablets, and liquid extracts. Recently, an overview of several scientific studies showed that this herb was effective in treating moderate cases of depression. Also, fewer participants of this study stopped taking St. John’s Wort compared to antidepressants. While the benefits are many, this herb can interact with medications used to treat seizures, contraceptives, and anticoagulants. Before taking St. John’s Wort, you should speak to your physician to check that it’s right for you.
Albizia is a plant from southern and eastern Asia that has many healing properties. Specifically, the flowers and bark from this plant have properties used to craft dietary supplements that treat a variety of issues. Affectionately referred to as “The Tree of Happiness”, this plant is often used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Moreover, when it comes to anxiety, albizia can help by providing calming and relaxing effects. Clinical trials have shown that this herb offers some relief from depression, as well as a noticeable sleep aid.
This summer, let your troubles melt away when you use herbs for anxiety and heal the natural way. For more information on holistic health rituals and tips, visit our natural beauty blog. If you’re looking to craft natural skincare at home, check out WapoBeauty’s Shampoo Bar eBook. Those searching for guided learning should visit WapoBeauty’s Complete Facial Skincare Online Course for Beginners and discover how to make professional, safe, and stable natural beauty products. Join the ranks of students who found this class valuable and rewarding!
Ashuni Pérez is an American writer based in Valencia, Spain. She has a passion for natural beauty and the environment. Ashuni loves to cycle and drink smoothies in the sun. Follow her on Instagram at @ashuuuuni
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