It’s very common to hear nowadays people saying that they’re very stressed. Whether due to an important meeting at work coming up, a dip in their bank account, a discussion with their partner or anything else for that matter, there is a range of things that can trigger feelings of nervousness. However, sometimes this nervousness develops into anxiety, and sometimes anxiety further develops into a full-blown disorder that disrupts your life.
Generally, most of us can’t really recognize whether they have anxiety. But even if our conscious mind doesn’t recognize it, our body does. Muscle tension and irritable bowel syndrome are some physical symptoms of anxiety. If you feel muscle aches and frequently find yourself balling your fists, clenching and unclenching your jaw, experiencing stomach aches and suffering from constipation or diarrhea, you might have anxiety.
While there isn’t a direct cure for this condition, there are different ways to manage symptoms and find more peace in your daily life. One of them is taking supplements. Taking supplements for anxiety relief can address the three main biological factors that contribute to the condition: serotonin deficiency, low vitamin B6 levels and low iron levels. When combined with methods like talk therapy, exercise, building a strong social support system, journaling, etc., supplements for anxiety can correct the biological factors that contribute to the development of this condition and relieve the symptoms.
Wondering what is the best supplement for anxiety?
Bush Flower Essence
The bush flower essence has been around for thousands of years and is used to assist with emotional challenges, as well as to give courage, strength and commitment to your life. This essence can also help you develop a higher level of intuition, self-esteem, creativity and quieten the mind from racing thoughts. The bush flower essence has been used to treat anxiety, PTSD, night terrors and to assist with low energy levels. It is very easy to use – just put 7 drops under the tongue and you’re good to go.
Passionflower
Passionflower is a herb with calming effects. It’s commonly used as a household treatment for anxiety. It has the ability to promote positive mood, alleviate nervousness and improve sleep quality. Passionflower can be consumed as an extract and tablet, or it can be added into teas.
GABA
GABA stands for Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid. It is an amino acid and neurotransmitter located in the brain that is crucial for serotonin production. Considering the fact that serotonin is one of the nervous system’s most powerful “feel-good” neurotransmitters, GABA plays an important part in mood regulation and relaxation. Although vitamins improve anxiety by affecting GABA levels in the brain, GABA can also be consumed directly through supplements to reduce anxiety symptoms.
Valerian Root
Valerian root is used for a variety of medicinal purposes. It is most commonly used as a sleep aid. But this herb has also shown to be effective in reducing anxiety. Once ingested, the acids found within the herb convert to calming, ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitters in the body, regulating stress and relaxing the body and mind. Valerian root extract is available in both liquid and capsule form and as a tea.
Licorice Root
Licorice root is well known for its sweet taste and it is traditionally used in candies and beverages. What many don’t know is that this herb also has health benefits for individuals with anxiety thanks to the effects it has on the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are what produces the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol. Licorice root helps regulate the production of these hormones, buffering the body’s defences against stress and reducing anxiety symptoms. The safest and most effective variety of medicinal licorice root available is Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL).
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that plays an important role in a number of bodily functions and has a number of health benefits. Aside from this, magnesium has also shown to be helpful as a natural treatment for anxiety. It can improve brain functions that reduce stress and anxiety. When it comes to what is the best magnesium supplement for anxiety, magnesium glycinate, magnesium oxide, magnesium citrate and magnesium chloride are all good options to consider.
Aside from taking supplements, there are other ways to keep anxiety under control. Staying active, not drinking alcohol, not smoking, ditching caffeine and getting the right amount of sleep can all help reduce anxiety. Sticking to a healthy diet can also be helpful. Dehydration, low blood sugar levels, or chemicals in processed foods, such as preservatives and artificial colouring, may cause mood changes in some people. If your anxiety worsens after eating, review your eating habits. Nutritional deficiencies have shown to exacerbate mental health disorders. Vitamins obtained through consuming whole foods have shown to have particularly positive effects on anxiety.
