Natural Treatments for Anxiety

Hormonal imbalances from menopause can cause symptoms of anxiety. Symptoms of anxiety include:

• feeling irritable, uneasy or "out of control"
• unable to concentrate or think clearly
• difficulty sleeping
• feeling of fear that something bad is going happen
• rapid heart beat
• sweating
• headache
• nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• trembling and dizziness
• tense muscles
• having difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

The use of natural treatments, in particular, calming herbs with sedative actions can provide relief of anxiety, nervous tension and stress. The following lists herbs, vitamins and minerals that can help relieve anxiety.

• Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
• Passion flower (Passiflora incarnata)
• Hops (Humulus lupulus)
• Gentian (Gentiana lutea)
• Vitamin B Complex
• Potassium and magnesium phosphates

Valerian, Passion flower and Hops are relaxant herbs. They may also have a sedative action to help promote sleep. This is particularly useful in people who have anxiety and difficulty sleeping.

Gentian is calming to the stomach and is traditionally used for the temporary relief of symptoms of nervous dyspepsia or indigestion. Nervous dyspepsia and indigestion are possible symptoms of anxiety.

Vitamin B complex is essential for the healthy function of the nervous system. It can help in some cases of anxiety where stress triggers feelings of anxiety.

Potassium and magnesium phosphates are used to temporarily relieve stress and anxiety. They help the symptoms of sleep disturbance, irritability and hyperactivity.

Drug free management of stress and anxiety includes learning and using relaxation techniques and possibly starting yoga, tai chi, or meditation.

Aromatherapy may also help relieve stress and anxiety. Lavender is a calming scent that promotes relaxation and sleep. Try using lavender essential oil or a lavender pillow at bedtime.

Make Your Own Lavender Pillow

Follow these directions to make your own lavender pillow to help promote relaxation and sleep.

1. Dry some lavender buds and leaves in full sun for 4 days. Dry the buds and leaves on a piece of blotting paper or paper towel if possible.
2. Ultimately, the size and shape of the lavender pillow is up to you. Get a 20 cm by 10 cm (8 inch by 4 inch) piece of material. The material can be cotton or satin or polyester satin.
3. Form a pouch by folding the material in half and sew closed 2 open edges.
4. Fill the pouch with the dried lavender buds and leaves and sew the remaining open edge closed.
5. Place lavender pillow near your head when in bed or under your pillow and let the lavender fragrance relax you.