Anxiety is the body’s natural response to dangerous situations. However, when a person suffers from chronic anxiety, their body has lost the ability to differentiate what is actual danger from daily occurrences. Some people suffer from what is known as general anxiety disorder. It’s an uncomfortable feeling, and its overwhelming grip makes a person feel powerless to stop it.

When anxiety is at high levels, it can cause the body to overproduce cortisol as it goes into “fight or flight mode.” During this time, a person may feel like they’re dizzy, going to pass out, having a heart attack, or they have other severe medical conditions. To combat these problems, the first step is to go to the doctor’s office for medications.

The most commonly prescribed medications for anxiety and panic are antidepressants and benzodiazepines. However, doctors don’t like prescribing benzodiazepines because they are habit-forming, and SSRI or SNRI medications come with scary side effects. Thankfully, plant medicines provide a remedy for those who don’t want to go the prescription medication route. Here are four plant medicines that can bring relief.

Lavender

When it comes to calming the body, lavender is one of the first natural plant medicines people think about. It’s known for its ability to bring about peace to those who feel the clutches of anxiety. It can be incorporated in a tea, put on the body as a topical solution, or used in the bath.

Since there are so many ways to use lavender, its versatility allows people to experiment. It lowers the heart rate, blood pressure, and can help you fall to sleep. It’s the first choice for many suffering from panic and anxiety.

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba has long been used as a holistic treatment for memory and cognition problems. However, studies have confirmed that its effect on anxiety shouldn’t go unnoticed. In fact, people who take this herb will experience a similar effect as those who take the highly addictive benzodiazepine medications.

There are many studies on the effectiveness of this herbal treatment, and most of them show positive results on the handling of mental health issues.

Marijuana/Cannabis

While it’s always been a bit controversial, the legalization of marijuana in many states has brought new light to this herbal remedy. Cannabis stores are popping up all over the country. These establishments are helping those suffering from anxiety to cancer, using plant medicines.

The calming and euphoric properties of this treatment cannot go unnoticed. There are specific strains to target a person’s needs. The effects it has on anxiety is second to none, and there are no harsh side effects to deal with either.

Valerian Root

Valerian root is a cousin to chamomile, which is often used to enhance sleep. The beauty of this herb is that it comes with no side effects other than slight sedation. It’s wonderful for anxiety as it puts the body in a tranquil state. Be cautious when taking it with other treatments as it doesn’t do well with prescription medications.

Plant medicines have their place in the help of anxiety and panic disorders. However, if there is any way to avoid them by using natural remedies that are not habit-forming, then a person must at least try. These four remedies have brought tens of thousands of people relief from their chronic symptoms. They can help you too.