Herbal Medication for Anxiety

Herbal anxiety medication can help to reduce stress, calm nervousness, promote sleep and ease tension headaches. Herbal medications may use either one basic ingredient or a combination of ingredients, and it may take time to find out which one addresses your anxiety best. Persons who are currently using other medications or who have additional mental or health conditions need to speak with a physician before they use any type of herbal medication.

Herbal Medication

Herbal medication for anxiety is available in most health food stores. The medication may be in the form of tablets, capsules, tinctures or teas. Never exceed the recommended dosage for anti-anxiety herbal medication, and always follow the dosage instructions.

Some of the more popular herbal medications for anxiety on the market include valerian root, passion flower, St. John's wort, rhodioloa rosea, winter cherry, California poppy, black cohosh, lemon balm, chamomile, hops and catnip. All these herbs have calming effects. Some of these ingredients, such as valerian root, have a sedative effect which with sleeping.

If you are suffering from anxiety associated with panic attacks, herbs specific for panic attack relief include passion flower, valerian, lemon balm and St. John's wort.

Herbal medication should be used with additional techniques to help combat anxiety. Some of these techniques include yoga, relaxation through breathing, exercise, massage, positive meditation and aromatherapy.

Considerations and Warnings

Herbal medication may interfere with other types of prescription or over-the-counter medications; always speak with a physician before you use herbal medication for anxiety if you are currently taking other types of medications.

Herbal medication may cause complications in other illnesses and disorders such as diabetes, high or low blood pressure and depression; always speak with a physician if you wish to use herbal medication for anxiety and you have any of these conditions.

Herbal medication can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Watch for any signs such as rash, hives, difficulty swallowing, itching or stomach upset. If you experience any of these signs, stop taking the medication and contact a doctor. If you experience a severe allergic reaction to a herbal medication, such as vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical help.