Those suffering from dysfunctional anxiety have long used various herbs for their mild calming, tranquilizing effects. Barring allergic reaction, such herbs are generally safe and effective when used in moderation. And generally, such herbs have milder and fewer side effects than drugs used to treat anxiety or depression.

Although taking herbal anti-anxiety remedies along with drugs for anxiety may be a popular idea, it is generally inadvisable to do so without consulting with your medical professional because some drugs for anxiety or depression should not be taken in combination with herbs treating the same symptoms.

Herb products are often available in capsule, tablet, tincture, and tea forms in combination or alone as a single herb. The following herbs often have other uses than noted or than for anxiety.

Kava Kava: Derived from a Polynesian plant, Kava (or Kava Kava) is as effect as some pharmaceutical drugs at relieving symptoms of anxiety and depression according to some studies. Kava also acts to relax muscles in spasm. It can cause drowsiness. Kava should not, however, be taken in conjunction with drugs taken for anxiety or depression, and should be avoided by pregnant or nursing mothers and when consuming alcohol. Not recommended for persons under the age of 18.

Valerian: Helps relieve nervousness, pain, muscle spasm, irritable bowel syndrome, and stress. May work best when used over a several week period. As an apparent balancing function, it may both calm an overactive nervous system and stimulate a fatigued nervous system. Valerian should not be used with alcohol. One of the stronger herbs at relaxing anxiety-stressed nerves.

Passionflower: It has a mild sedative effect. Helpful for anxiety, hyperactivity, and stress. Should not be used during pregnancy.

Chamomile: Chamomile is the name given to a number of closely related species used for their antispasmodic properties and help in reducing inflammation in the gut. Good for insomnia and anxiety also. Chamomile should not be taken daily for long periods and should be used only with caution or not at all by those with rag weed allergies. Avoid when consuming alcohol or sedative drugs.

Hops: Used in brewery for centuries, hops is also useful for nervous tension, insomnia, stress, and hyperactivity. Traditionally put in pillow cases to help children sleep. Should not be taken in conjunction with antidepressant drugs.

Lemon Balm: Named for the lemon scent of its leaves, the essential oil of lemon balm acts as a mild sedative and antispasmodic. Lemon Balm is also antibacterial and antiviral. It should not be taken by persons who have glaucoma or hypothyroidism.

Skullcap: One of the more effective herbs used for insomnia. Useful for fatigue, anxiety, muscle cramps, and hyperactivity. Should be avoided by children under the age of six.

Lavender: Taken externally only via the air or on the skin, the essential oil of lavender has a calming effect on the central nervous system.

St. John's Wort: I mention this herb because of the general context. This is the herb of choice for mild to moderate depression, most effective if taken over a period of time. Prolonged use may overly sensitize a person to sunlight. Should not be taken with antidepressant drugs or MAO inhibitors.

Other herbs may be indirectly helpful to those suffering from panic attacks and anxiety disorders such as Siberian Ginseng, which helps with endurance, and herbs like Fenugreek and Marshmellow Root, which calm the digestive tract and Peppermint or Ginger, which can soothe the stomach. Stress and pharmaceutical drugs generally tend to deplete the body of various vitamins and essential nutrients, so good diet is important as well.

Long term, panic attack and anxiety disorder sufferers should probably incorporate other health-related modalities in addition to herbal ones, such as exercise and therapy, or modalities that address accompanying problems, such as in the presence of alcohol abuse, relational, work, or economic distress, or reactions to food allergens or environmental toxins.

Next, the natural anxiety treatment category includes more than herbs, so see the Linden Method for Anxiety, which effectively reprograms your subconscious mind not to panic or cause you inappropriate fear. David J. Phelps