Natural Approaches to Anxiety


Most of us suffer from a certain level of chronic anxiety, because modern life is jagged, fast-paced, and divorced from the natural rhythms that tend to create a harmonious inner life. For some, this existential unease goes further, and becomes a psychological disorder.

Anxiety and Panic Disorders are becoming more and more common in modern life. Although exact figures are hard to come by, it is estimated that up to 6.5% of the population has suffered from a diagnosable Anxiety Disorder, while many more people struggle with uncomfortable and distressing symptoms of stress and anxiety.

Anxiety disorders come in two basic forms. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a chronic condition that involves a recurring sense of foreboding and worry accompanied by mild physical symptoms. A panic attack, on the other hand, comes on suddenly and unexpectedly, with symptoms so violent that the episodes are often mistaken for a heart attack or another life-threatening condition.

Symptoms of Anxiety

Heart palpitations.

Throbbing or stabbing pains.

Tightness in the chest.

Inability to take in enough air.

Tendency to sigh or hyperventilate.

Muscle tension & spasms.

Excessive sweating.

Dry mouth.

Dizziness.

Digestive disturbances.

Constant need to urinate or defecate.

Treating Anxiety

DIET

Caffeine, sugar, and alcohol raise blood lactic acid levels which increase anxiety.

A diet rich in foods that have higher levels of B vitamins, and foods high in calcium and magnesium, can go a long way in reducing symptoms.

Keep blood sugars level with regular meals and low glycemic foods.

SUPPLEMENTS

Kava is very useful for anxiety-perhaps as effective as prescription medications; it reduces symptoms such as nervousness, dizziness, and heart palpitations

Calcium and Magnesium are essential for healthy nerve function.

Valerian known as a sleep aid, can be used at low doses throughout the day for a calming effect.

St. John's Wort is very useful if depression is an underlying feature contributing to the anxiety.

PROFESSIONAL FORMULAS

Pure Calm by Native Remedies is a wonderful, all natural formula for treating anxiety and panic attacks.

Aromatherapy for Anxiety

Commonly used essential oils for anxiety include:

Bergamot

Camphor

Cedarwood

Geranium

Lavender

Neroli

Patchouli

Sandalwood

Homeopathy for Anxiety

Aconite is useful for acute panic where the person feel like they may die. Impending doom, heart palpitations, shortness of breath.

Arsenicum for insecurity, inability to eat, chills, rapid heartbeat.

Cal carb for a feelings of being overwhelmed, chilly, and tired.

Gelsemium for acute symptoms of stage fright or crowds. Trembly feeling.

Ignatia is good for emotional trauma. Lump in the throat, moody, weepy.

Reflexology for Anxiety

Work the reflexes of the solar plexus, all major glands, and the heart.

Balch Flower Remedies for Anxiety

If you are prone to attacks, keep a bottle of Rescue Remedy with you.

Look up specific remedies to see which ones suit your symptoms best.

Articles About Anxiety

Controlling Anxiety Through Herbs and Diet

Anxiety and Depression in Adolescence






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The information on this web site is intended for educational purposes only, and not as any form of medical advice. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider.


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