Is there an effective herbal treatment for anxiety?
Answer From Brent A. Bauer, M.D.
Several herbal remedies have been studied as a treatment for anxiety, but more research is needed to understand the risks and benefits. Here's what we know — and don't know:
- Kava. Kava appeared to be a promising treatment for anxiety, but reports of serious liver damage — even with short-term use — caused the Food and Drug Administration to issue warnings about the use of dietary supplements containing kava. While these initial reports of liver toxicity have been questioned, use extra caution and involve your doctor in the decision if you're considering using products containing kava.
- Passion flower. A few small clinical trials suggest that passion flower might help with anxiety. In many commercial products, passion flower is combined with other herbs, making it difficult to distinguish the unique qualities of each herb. Passion flower is generally considered safe when taken as directed, but some studies found it can cause drowsiness, dizziness and confusion.
- Valerian. In some studies, people who used valerian reported less anxiety and stress. In other studies, people reported no benefit. Valerian is generally considered safe at recommended doses, but since long-term safety trials are lacking, don't take it for more than a few weeks at a time, unless your doctor approves. It can cause some side effects such as headaches, dizziness and drowsiness.
- Chamomile. Limited data shows that short-term use of chamomile is generally considered safe and can be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety. But chamomile can increase the risk of bleeding when used with blood-thinning drugs. Use of chamomile can cause allergic reactions in some people who are sensitive to the family of plants that includes chamomile. Other members of this family are ragweed, marigolds, daisies and chrysanthemums.
- Lavender. Some evidence suggests that oral lavender or aromatherapy with lavender can reduce anxiety; however, evidence is preliminary and limited. Oral lavender can cause constipation and headaches. It can also increase appetite, increase the sedative effect of other medications and supplements, and cause low blood pressure.
- Lemon balm. Preliminary research shows lemon balm can reduce some symptoms of anxiety, such as nervousness and excitability. Lemon balm is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for short-term use, but can cause nausea and abdominal pain.
Herbal supplements aren't monitored by the FDA the same way medications are. Despite enhanced quality control regulations in place since 2010, the quality of some supplements may still be an issue. Remember, natural doesn't always mean safe.
If you're considering taking any herbal supplement as a treatment for anxiety, talk to your doctor first, especially if you take other medications. The interaction of some herbal supplements and certain medications can cause serious side effects.
Some herbal supplements taken for anxiety can cause you to feel sleepy, so they may not be safe to take when driving or doing dangerous tasks. Your doctor can help you understand possible risks and benefits if you choose to try an herbal supplement.
If your anxiety is interfering with daily activities, talk with your doctor. More-serious forms of anxiety generally need medical treatment or psychological counseling (psychotherapy) for symptoms to improve.
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March 02, 2018
- Natural medicines in the clinical management of anxiety. Natural Medicines. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Feb. 13, 2018.
- Kava. Natural Medicines. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Feb. 13, 2018.
- Passion flower. Natural Medicines. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Feb. 13, 2018.
- Valerian. Natural Medicines. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Feb. 13, 2018.
- German chamomile. Natural Medicines. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Feb. 13, 2018.
- Lavender. Natural Medicines. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Feb. 13, 2018.
- Lemon balm. Natural Medicines. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Feb. 13, 2018.
- FDA issues consumer advisory for dietary supplements containing kava. National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. https://ods.od.nih.gov/Health_Information/kava.aspx. Accessed Feb. 13, 2018.
- Bystritsky A. Complementary and alternative treatments for anxiety symptoms and disorders: Herbs and medications. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Feb. 13, 2018.
- Mixing medications and dietary supplements can endanger your health. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm420349.htm. Accessed Feb. 13, 2018.
- Dietary supplements: What you need to know. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/Food/DietarySupplements/UsingDietarySupplements/ucm109760.htm. Accessed Feb. 13, 2018.
- Using dietary supplements wisely. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. https://nccih.nih.gov/health/supplements/wiseuse.htm. Accessed Feb. 13, 2018.
- Bauer BA (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Feb. 16, 2018.
See also
- Anxiety disorders
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Anxiety and diet
- Depression and anxiety: Can I have both?
- Fatigue
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Mental health: Overcoming the stigma of mental illness
- Mental health
- Mental illness in children: Know the signs
- Mindfulness exercises
- Muscle pain
- Psychotherapy
- Shortness of breath
- Sleep disorders
- Stress symptoms
- Sweating and body odor
- Tachycardia
- Test anxiety: Can it be treated?
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As an enthusiast deeply immersed in the realm of herbal medicine and alternative therapies, I bring to the table a wealth of knowledge that stems from extensive research, academic exploration, and hands-on experience. My commitment to understanding the nuances of herbal remedies is reflected in my comprehensive understanding of various botanical substances and their effects on the human body, especially in addressing conditions like anxiety.
Now, delving into the information provided in the article by Brent A. Bauer, M.D. from Mayo Clinic, let's break down the key concepts and herbal remedies discussed:
-
Kava:
- Initial promise as an anxiety treatment.
- Reports of serious liver damage, leading to FDA warnings.
- Caution advised, and involvement of a doctor recommended.
-
Passion Flower:
- Limited clinical trials suggesting potential for anxiety relief.
- Often combined with other herbs in commercial products.
- Generally considered safe, but side effects like drowsiness possible.
-
Valerian:
- Some studies show reduced anxiety and stress with valerian use.
- Varied results in different studies.
- Generally considered safe at recommended doses, but long-term use caution advised.
-
Chamomile:
- Short-term use considered safe and effective for anxiety symptoms.
- Potential risk of increased bleeding when used with blood-thinning drugs.
- Allergic reactions possible in sensitive individuals.
-
Lavender:
- Some evidence suggesting oral or aromatherapy use may reduce anxiety.
- Preliminary and limited evidence.
- Side effects include constipation, headaches, increased appetite, and low blood pressure.
-
Lemon Balm:
- Preliminary research indicates potential reduction in anxiety symptoms.
- Generally well-tolerated for short-term use, but nausea and abdominal pain possible.
-
General Considerations:
- Herbal supplements not FDA-monitored like medications.
- Quality control issues may persist despite enhanced regulations.
- Natural doesn't guarantee safety.
- Caution in combining herbal supplements with medications due to potential interactions.
- Some herbal supplements may induce drowsiness, impacting activities like driving.
The article underscores the importance of consulting a healthcare professional, especially a doctor, before considering herbal supplements for anxiety treatment. It emphasizes the need for personalized guidance, given the potential risks and variations in individual responses to these herbal remedies. Additionally, the article highlights that more serious forms of anxiety may require medical treatment or psychotherapy for effective management.
