Anxiety is a normal emotional response to stressful situations in life. It’s your brain’s way of alerting you against incoming danger—a useful evolutionary mechanism that helped early humans survive in the wilderness.
The world we live in today is nowhere as unpredictable or as dangerous as in ancient times. However, chronic stress from work, relationships, financial pressures, and societal expectations can still be perceived as a threat by our bodies, triggering the fight or flight response.
Such persistent stress inevitably develops into anxiety disorders, one of the most common mental health challenges faced by us today. While many people choose to alleviate it through medication and therapy, others seek alternative natural remedies such as herbal supplements which have shown promise in the management of anxiety disorders. Let’s take a look at 5 of them.
Cannabidiol (CBD)
CBD is a compound derived from the cannabis plant that has recently gained popularity due to its potential therapeutic effects. According to Forbes’ 2024 ‘CBD Statistics, Data And Use’ survey, more than 50% of consumers between the ages of 18-57 and 77+ use CBD to experience relief from anxiety, reduce stress, and relax.
Although CBD is extracted from the cannabis hemp plant, it’s non-psychoactive as it contains only trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the main compound responsible for the psychoactive high resulting from marijuana usage.
You can find many CBD products in the market, including pills, capsules, patches, oils & tinctures, and edibles. However, most people prefer wholesale CBD flower due to its versatility, ease of use, and full-spectrum benefits.
Kratom
Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, the leaves of which are known to contain certain compounds that may offer relief to those with anxiety.
According to researchers, these compounds may bind to the opioid receptors in the brain, leading to feelings of relaxation and calmness. A 2017 study titled ‘Kratom use and mental health: A systematic review’ concluded that Kratom enhances mood and relieves anxiety among many users.
Low doses of kratom are said to increase energy and alertness whereas higher doses can either be sedative or euphoric. You can take this supplement as a capsule, powder, or tea. However, remember to use it responsibly as it has addictive potential.
Chamomile
If you’ve ever complained about having trouble falling asleep, you might’ve been recommended chamomile tea. Chamomile or Matricaria chamomilla is well-known for its calming and soothing properties and has been used to alleviate anxiety for centuries. Many people have chamomile tea right before going to bed to improve their quality of sleep.
In a 2019 study published by John Wiley & Sons, it was observed that people with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) noticed an improvement in their symptoms after 2-4 weeks of treatment with chamomile.
Chamomile supplements are available in many forms, including teas, capsules, and tinctures. However, chamomile can cause allergic reactions and is known to interact with certain medications such as blood thinners. Always talk to your doctor before you take any chamomile supplements.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha or Withania somnifera is classified as an “adaptogen” herb that can bring down cortisol levels and regulate the body’s stress response to improve symptoms of anxiety. It’s been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to alleviate stress and anxiety due to its efficacy.
A 2019 study published in the Cureus Journal of Medical Science discovered that participants who took high doses of ashwagandha had lower cortisol levels and better sleep quality compared to those who took a placebo or a lower dose. So ensure you take the right dosage to reap the benefits of ashwagandha. You can take this herbal supplement in the form of a powder, capsule, or tincture.
Valerian Root
Valeriana officinalis or valerian is a plant native to Europe and Asia, the root of which has been used since ages as a natural remedy for anxiety, depression, and insomnia. There’s no conclusive evidence of how it works but researchers believe that it increases the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and anxiety.
Although more research is required on the use of valerian root in treating anxiety, a 2002 study published in the Phytotherapy Research Journal found that valerian root extract given three times a day for four weeks significantly reduced symptoms of anxiety compared to a placebo in people with GAD.
You can find valerian root as a capsule, tea, or tincture. The recommended dosage for this herbal supplement is 120 to 200 mg for anxiety and should be taken three times a day for best results.
Explore Herbal Remedies
Herbal supplements such as CBD, kratom, and ashwagandha show incredible promise in the management of anxiety disorders. However, to experience their full benefits, ensure you’re choosing high-quality products from reputable sources and following the recommended dosage. It’s also best to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new herbal supplements.