Natural Approaches for Easing Anxiety

• Kava. Numerous studies find that this herb, a member of the black pepper family, works better than a placebo to reduce symptoms in people with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Kava can interfere with how your body metabolizes certain medications, however, so, as with any supplement, check with your health care professional first.
• Inositol (vitamin B8). Studies find that supplementing with 12 to 18 grams a day works about as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluvoxamine (Luvox), and better than a placebo, to reduce the intensity and frequency of panic attacks. Other studies find inositol works better than a placebo to reduce symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).
• Herbal teas. Valerian and passionflower have long been used to calm nervousness and treat anxiety, although there are no studies showing they're effective in treating anxiety disorders. However, I believe that any time you brew a pot of hot tea and sit in a quiet place to sip it, you will feel better.
• Acupuncture. There is some limited evidence that acupuncture may help reduce the symptoms of GAD. As with many alternative remedies, I think the effectiveness is often individual. If you are comfortable with acupuncture, talk to a licensed acupuncturist about the possibility of using it as an adjunct treatment for your anxiety.
• Journaling. I know that when I can't sleep at night, writing down what I'm worried about or making a list of everything I have to do clears my mind and allows me to fall asleep. You might try this when you feel your mind going around and around the same groove.
• Applied relaxation.
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