I have struggled with anxiety disorder for as long as I can remember. I was always a nervous child but it wasn’t until my teenage years when I started having many physical health issues that I had my first panic attack. Not long after that I started having more panic attacks and was diagnosed with general anxiety disorder. I have been to anxiety groups, yoga retreats, meditation classes, you name it and I have done it. Over the years of studying herbalism and holistic health and from basic trial and error, I have found many natural ways to help relieve and take the edge off of my anxiety.

You should always check with your doctor before using any type of supplement or herbs. I cannot ever predict what type of reactions or side effects a person could potentially have. All of our bodies are so different! These are what I have found that work for me very well. I don’t use all of these at once, but I find that most of them work well in conjunction with other remedies. Usually one or two of these together is enough to help calm the nerves and they tend to work synergistically.

Badger Balm Stress Soother – “In traditional aromatherapy, Rosemary instills clear thinking and confidence; Tangerine and Spearmint are uplifting and cheering; Cedarwood helps build inner strength; Roman Chamomile and Lavender are soothing and relaxing, and Rose is all about love and forgiveness. Just rub a little on hands, temples, forehead, or anywhere that needs soothing and breathe it in – the aroma will do the rest.” I use a generous amount of this balm before bed. I apply it on my hands and temples. I also sometimes just breathe in the balm itself and find that it immediately calms me.

Homeopathic Calm Drops – “This homeopathic formulation nurtures the deeper feelings that surface from anxiety, stress and strong emotions. Calm Drops console the spirit when coping with grief, trauma, hurt or symptoms of depression. Our homeopathic lozenge provides emotional support when feeling anxious, irritable or overwhelmed by stress. These vanilla lozenges are vegan and gluten free.” I carry these in my purse at all times. They really help and taste delicious!

Lotus Wei Quiet Mind Mist – “Geranium, Lemon and Coriander help to ease tension and induce a quiet mind”. I leave this near my bed and like to spray it on my pillow cases before going to sleep. It’s very relaxing and smells so good!

Get Relaxed Tea – “The mood-mellowing begins instantly with the calming aromas of lavender and rose petals gently wafting up from the steaming cup. Ahhhh. With each sip, a blissful blend of health-promoting organic rooibos laced with nerve-soothing chamomile and passionflower, along with stress reducing eleuthero root that helps you chill out, unbend and unwind*. Simply brew and breathe. Deep.”  This is a great tea to have on hand. It works well as a tea before bed to help with occasional sleeplessness or insomnia. It is also really great for drinking during the day to help calm your body and mind.

Lemon Balm – “Lemon Balm is used as an anxiolytic, mild sedative or calming agent. At least one study has found it to be effective at reducing stress. Lemon balm extract was identified as a potent inhibitor of GABA transaminase, which explains anxiolytic effects.” I love lemon balm. It’s great for anxiety, insomnia and many digestive issues. I like to take it in capsule, tea and tincture form, however it is really great in all ways, it comes down to what your preference is! I find that the tincture works the fastest and the best for severe anxiety or insomnia.

Lavender – “Throughout history, lavender has been cultivated for its flowers and oils and used both cosmetically and medicinally. A member of the Labiatae family, lavender is primarily used either dried or as an essential oil. Historical use includes documented activity as an antibacterial, antifungal, carminative, sedative, and antidepressant.”  There are few scents that are as soothing and relaxing as the scent of Lavender. I love to buy loose lavender in bulk to make tea or a diy facial steam, for baths and also for many skincare purposes. I also really love to mix Lavender with Chamomile to drink before bed!

Chamomile – “Chamomile is an herb that has been used in traditional and herbal medicines for thousands of years. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the ancient Egyptians, Romans and Greeks used chamomile for its multitude of physical and mental benefits. Among its many other uses, chamomile may help to reduce anxiety, ease insomnia, calm upset stomachs and soothe minor burns.” Chamomile is my favorite tea in the world for so many reasons. I love the taste of chamomile and I love how I immediately feel calmer when drinking it. If I could only drink one tea for the rest of my life it would be Chamomile!

Valerian Root – “Valerian contains compounds known as valepotriates that may have a sedating effect. Valerian also contains a substance known as gamma-aminobutyric acid, which may also aid relaxation. As such, it is also used as an anti-anxiety treatment.  It may also heighten the effects of prescription sedatives.” This is a great thing to have if you suffer from anxiety or panic attacks and don’t want to be on anti-depressants or anti-anxiety medications. If you are already taking medication for anxiety, Valerian can help to heighten the effects so you want to be sure to use with caution!

Magnesium Citrate – “A magnesium deficiency can cause or worsen symptoms of anxiety. Magnesium naturally calms the nervous system and the muscles; whereas, a deficiency can result in a tense body and an anxious mind.” I take up to 600 mgs of Magnesium Citrate every night before bed. It not only helps with anxiety but is great for digestive health and insomnia.

Other great things for anxiety, stress and over all health are Yoga, Meditation and Epsom Salt Baths.

If you have ever tried any of these remedies or any other remedies please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments!

xoxo,

Britanie