Herbal Medicine for Anxiety

In combination with stress-reducing techniques, herbal remedies offer calming relief of anxiety.

Kava kava (Piper methysticum)

Kava kava is used for treating anxiety, promoting sleep

Recommended dosage:

The standardized extract potency of its active ingredient, kavalactone, should be 30 percent (15 mg per capsule). For daytime relief of anxiety, take 250 mg (one capsule or one-half dropperful), three times daily with meals.

You can take four to six capsules for sleep (up to 1,500 mg). Do not take it continuously for a prolonged period of time (over four months).

Valerian

The extract of valerian has been the treatment of choice for anxiety and insomnia throughout the world. It is a sedative and painkiller. Helpful in treating insomnia. Valerian root taken at bedtime aids in preventing panic attacks at night.

Valerian is quite safe to take for short periods of time. However, its long-term effects are not known.

Recommended dosage:

For daytime anxiety, take 150 mg (standardized extract of 0.8 percent valeric acid) three times daily.

For difficulty with sleep, start with 150 mg, 45 minutes before bed. If that dose is insufficient, gradually increase to 600 mg.

If you are using the herb, use one teaspoon of powdered valerian root in one pint of boiling water for ten minutes in a covered pot. Strain and add honey to taste. Drink one cup per day before bed.

For severe anxiety, add 1 drop of valerian oil to bath water.

Intervals of two-to-four week breaks are recommended, to avoid habituation.