Many people experience some form of anxiety in their lifetime.
Anxiety is a natural response when we feel stressed, afraid, or when we perceive something to be threatening. In a person with a well-balanced nervous system, the anxiety will pass as soon as the stressor has disappeared, and everything has returned to normal again.
In people with anxiety conditions, their anxiety can persist for a while after the stress response has been triggered and it may continue to be triggered consistently by less threatening events which can keep them in a heightened state of anxiety.
People can be more prone to anxiety due to their genetics, their environment, social status, or life experiences.
Natural remedies can be beneficial even if you are using prescription medication, but it is always best to check with your health professional before using natural supplements.
Apart from herbal remedies, there are also amino acids and minerals that are helpful to manage anxiety naturally. A few of which are listed below:
- Magnesium – the nervous system needs a fair amount of magnesium, especially when we are stressed or anxious. Magnesium glycinate has been shown to have calming effects and can reduce fear, panic, and anxiety. Another good form is Magnesium L-Threonate which increases the neurotransmitter, GABA, which calms the nervous system and decreases the production of stress hormones.
- L-Theanine – this is an amino acid found in green tea and matcha and can improve mental function and effectively reduce anxiety. L-theanine is also available in capsule form
- Chamomile – chamomile tea is gently calming and can reduce generalized anxiety symptoms
- Valerian Root – this can be good for sleep and anxiety but should be used with caution if taking pharmaceutical medications. High doses can also make anxiety worse
- GABA – low levels of GABA can make a person anxious, restless, and unable to relax. GABA is an amino acid that relaxes the brain and balances other excitatory neurotransmitters. GABA can lower blood pressure so monitor your blood pressure and discontinue use if it causes hypotension.
Listen to my interview with Brad Kirsten from Radio Cape Pulpit on 18 August 2022 to learn more. Listen to my next interview on Thursday at 7.45am