For those prone to panic attacks, excessive caffeine can trigger these episodes or intensify their severity due to its excitatory effects on the nervous system (73). Exercise also increases nerve-growth factor, orexin, GABA, GDNF, and reduces inflammation in the brain. A balanced autonomic nervous system means there’s a healthy balance between the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) responses (71).
Through investigative techniques such as lab testing, we are able to identify the source of the symptoms and then fix them. CBD oil is often used as a natural remedy for generalized anxiety and social anxiety disorders, with many people reporting positive effects. Research has shown that CBD oil may help alleviate symptoms of generalized social anxiety disorder, making it a promising treatment option for those who struggle with social situations. Several herbal treatments and over-the-counter or holistic medicines are believed to help manage anxiety symptoms. Some of the commonly cited herbal options are chamomile, valerian root, lavender, and kava. Over-the-counter remedies like the amino acid L-Theanine, melatonin, and magnesium are also frequently recommended as alternative anxiety treatments.
The anecdotal history covering at least two millennia records millions claiming cannabis has relieved their anxiety. Xanax has been around a relatively few years, but doctors and patients swear to its value. All Supplement Critique content is medically reviewed or fact checked by a licensed medical doctor to ensure as much factual information as possible. Most of the REAL effects come from the juice that’s located in the center of the plant, which virtually no supplement contains. The reason behind this is because practically every kava supplement out there uses kava roots. In addition, it also has the potential for abuse, addiction, and dependency, so you should limit use to just once or twice a week.
How does Talkiatry compare to face-to-face treatment?
Omega-3s also play a protective role against the onset of anxiety and depression, particularly when consumed in adequate amounts from an early age (47). Studies have indicated that theanine can also help reduce the physiological responses to stress. Individuals taking theanine experience a reduction in heart rate and salivary immunoglobulin A, both of which typically spike during stress (40-41).
Natural Products to Help Alleviate Anxiety
If you try some of these ingestible natural Xanax alternatives and don’t get the relief you’re looking for, don’t get discouraged. Just as anti-anxiety drugs don’t work for everyone, no single supplement is 100% effective either. There are many forms of magnesium supplements to pick from, but most barely enter the brain, where the magnesium is needed to impact anxiety.
While it is of course not a replacement for traditional anti-anxiety medication or therapy, chamomile tea can be a helpful tool in helping manage feelings of anxiety. As previously mentioned, ashwagandha is prized most for its stress-fighting effects—hence the nod to natural Xanax. Indeed, several studies show that it can effectively reduce symptoms of stress in people who struggle with chronic worry and feelings of anxiousness. Diane is an avid supporter and researcher of natural mental health strategies. Other therapeutic protocols at Alternative to Meds can reduce anxiety significantly, such as yoga, meditation, and practicing mindfulness, massage therapy, and acupuncture. Please explore more about them on our services overview page, including IV + NAD, nebulized natural xanax glutathione, art therapy, neurotransmitter rehabilitation, and many others.
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- Yoga also stimulates the production of endorphins, which can lead to a reduction in stress and anxiety (67).
- Additionally, CBD can interact with certain medications, so it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
- Kratom is widely believed to help people get off of opioid medications like oxycodone, vicodin, Hydrocodone, and Percocet, and is actually a very suitable alternative for these medications.
- Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, can enhance the effects of natural supplements and further stabilize your mood.
- As research progresses, there’s growing evidence linking adequate B vitamin intake with improved mood and reduced anxiety.
- B complex is a group of 8 essential vitamins that all play a significant role in mental health and the ability to deal with stress.
- While Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, and Valium are some examples benzodiazepines, your doctor may not prescribe any of them, preferring antidepressants medications instead.
In contrast, what we specialize in is matching a patient’s profile with the most effective non-pharmaceutical means to resolve symptoms. For most patients, Talkiatry treatment is just as effective as in-person psychiatry (American Psychiatric Association, 2021), and much more convenient. That said, we don’t currently provide treatment for schizophrenia, primary eating disorder treatment, or Medication Assisted Treatment for substance use disorders.
What you need to know about cannabis and anxiety
Much like Valerian and Passion flower, lemon balm is believed to positively influence GABA levels in the brain. As a result, it promotes relaxation and reduces overactivity in the nervous system (10). Valerian can be combined with other natural remedies, such as lemon balm, to create synergistic effects, making it more potent than using it on its own. Researchers have found that Valerian reduces the physiological symptoms of anxiety, such as palpitations and trembling (6).
With modern scientific methodologies, we’re now beginning to understand its profound beneficial effects and its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Omega-3s, especially EPA, exhibit potent anti-inflammatory effects, which can then benefit brain health and alleviate symptoms of anxiety (46). Omega-3s also influence the release and function of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are both essential for optimal mental health (45). Studies have shown that chamomile extract can help reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (28).
Their Kava extract is without a doubt the most effective all natural alternative to lorazepam you’ll find in the market. When you drink alcohol or take a Xanax, GABA is released into the brain, making you feel less anxious. This is one of the main reasons why alcohol is use by millions to “take the edge off” when you’re feeling stressed out.
Alternatives to Xanax: What are some safer options for anxiety?
- If needed, your psychiatrist can also refer you to a Talkiatry therapist.
- There are many options of remedies you can try, from CBD to essential oils to journaling.
- As a result, it has been a staple in traditional medicine across various cultures, and it’s a potential alternative to pharmaceuticals like Xanax.
- The CBD, however, is known to offset THC and to positive affect imbalances contributing to anxiety.
- What if there was something over the counter that you could take that would mimic the effects of Xanax, all while being completely legal to buy without a prescription.
This chemical does not easily degrade but does easily pass through human skin. It is suspected of endocrine disruption, which means it may interfere with hormones and neurotransmitters. At Talkiatry, we specialize in psychiatry, meaning the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. Getting adequate sleep is extremely important for mental health, but sometimes anxiety makes it hard to fall or stay asleep.
Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, and tempeh are rich natural sources of probiotics. Incorporating these foods into your diet can support a balanced gut microbiome. They also play a key role in mood regulation and the alleviation of anxiety.