Exploring Natural Treatment for Anxiety
Written by: Jillian Treadway
Finding a natural treatment for anxiety as opposed to taking prescription medication is rather important to many people for a number of reasons, particularly to those who may be taking medicine for other conditions or illnesses. Luckily, there are a number of methods that have proved to be successful for scores of those who are suffering from anxiety on a regular basis.
Therapy
CBT, cognitive behavioral therapy involves meeting with a therapist, counselor, social worker, or psychologist or psychiatrist either in a one-on-one or group setting to discuss how to cope with anxiety. CBT explores ways of improving self esteem and enhancing personal skills, and learning how to deal with stress and situations or things that trigger anxiety.
Self Treatment Techniques
Mind and body techniques such as yoga and meditation are being recognized as excellent ways of reducing anxiety without the need for expensive or potentially dangerous drugs.
Some other natural types of treatment for anxiety are:
- Biofeedback
- Hypnosis or self hypnosis
- Massage therapy
- Shiatsu
- Tai chi
Exercise
Unfortunately, many people immediately discount the benefits of exercise and never realize how much it actually does help when dealing with anxiety, stress, and tension. Scientific research has proven that exercise increases the production of hormones and chemicals in the brain known as endorphins that elevate one's mood. The more you exercise, the more endorphins are created, increasing the feelings of well being and happiness.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy involving the use of essential oils in an array of pleasant scents is also quickly gaining in popularity as a natural treatment for anxiety in many people. Besides oils candles, which is what most think of when they hear the word aromatherapy, the practice has many different applications including through massages, or aromatherapy baths, and is useful for much more than anxiety disorders. Insomnia, weight loss, and depression are just a few of the many reasons people use aromatherapy instead of resorting to medication.
Some of the most commonly used oils for treating anxiety include:
- Bergamot
- Cypress
- Geranium
- Jasmine
- Lavender
- Neroli
- Orange
- Patchouli
- Rose
- Sandalwood
- Ylang-ylang
Herbs and Flowering Roots
Chamomile, a flowering plant resembling the daisy, has been used for countless years in ancient medicinal preparations all throughout Asia and most of Europe. Besides being used for treating stomach ailments or digestive conditions, chamomile is also said to be useful for reducing anxiety and relieving insomnia. Some people report having allergic reactions to the plant, especially those with allergies, and women who are pregnant or nursing shouldn't use chamomile as a natural treatment for anxiety.
Valerian root, or valeriana officinalis, is an herb that's long been used for treating insomnia, although those with mild anxiety may benefit from it's calming properties. The herb can be found in teas, capsules, or in liquid extract and generally shouldn't be taken for more than a few months at a time. Another herb, passionflower, is also used for coping with anxiety, although it may cause a serious reaction in those taking certain prescription medications.
Whatever type of treatment for anxiety you feel would work best for you, make sure to first check with your doctor and discuss any special concerns you may have, and most importantly, remember to have patience and allow the treatment time to work properly. Too often, impatience prevents one from truly benefiting from any one method or technique, causing frustration, disappointment, and ultimately, more anxiety.
