How to Manage Anxiety Naturally
Are you feeling overwhelmed by work, social and family demands, or just life in general? You're not alone. Anxiety is something we all deal with from time to time. Instead of reaching for the usual stress-busters – binge-watching Netflix, scrolling TikTok, venting to your roommate – why not try some natural remedies to support you?
We love herbs because they are multipurpose and customizable to you. They are subtle, but create noticeable differences in your health over time. Herbs were used as medicine well before conventional medicine came into the picture, so while we’re only starting to understand how they work from a scientific perspective, they have been tested over generations for their effectiveness. Here are five herbs that can help you relax and feel more balanced.
1) Lavender
Lavender isn't just for making your room smell amazing—it's a powerhouse for anxiety relief.
Aromatherapy: Inhaling lavender essential oil can be incredibly calming. Just a few deep breaths and you'll start feeling the zen.
Loraze-Who?: At the right dose, lavender is as good as some anti-anxiety meds for mild anxiety. Yep, it's that good!
GABA Booster: Lavender works with GABA, a calming messenger in your brain, to help you relax and feel less anxious.
2) Chamomile
Chamomile is like a gentle hug in a cup. It's perfect for those moments when you need to unwind.
Calming for All Ages: Its gentle effects make it safe enough for kids, so you know it's kind to your system.
Digestive Soother: If anxiety gives you an upset stomach (just a quick sprint to the bathroom), chamomile can help ease that indigestion.
Allergy Alert: Just a heads up—if you have outdoor allergies, be mindful when using chamomile.
3) Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is your go-to herb for a mood boost and a clear mind.
Stress-No-More: It helps lower cortisol, our main stress hormone, keeping you calm and collected.
Mood and Brain Booster: Lemon balm not only lifts your spirits but also helps with brain tasks that can get foggy when you're anxious.
Chamomile’s Other Half: If you’re allergic to chamomile, lemon balm is a great alternative.
4) Ashwagandha
Meet ashwagandha, the adaptogen that's all about balance and resilience.
Adaptogen Power: It helps your body adapt to stress, making you more resilient over time.
Neurotransmitter Balance: Ashwagandha balances serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, which are crucial for feeling good and staying calm.
Immune Support: Chronic stress can weaken your immune system, but ashwagandha has your back, boosting your defenses.
5) Passionflower
Passionflower is like nature's chill pill, perfect for winding down and staying grounded.
Natural Relaxant: It helps you chill out, making it easier to manage those anxious moments.
Sleep Aid: Better sleep means better stress management!
GABA Enhancer: Like lavender, passionflower enhances GABA in your brain, keeping you calm and steady.
How to Use These Herbs
One of the great things about these herbs is how customizable they are to you. If you love sipping a hot drink while you work, try it in tea form. If you’re on the go a lot, an essential oil roll-on might be more your speed. If you’re looking for convenience, tinctures or capsules are your friend. And if you’re looking for something that can pull double duty for a calm mind AND a calm stomach, check out our Calm Herbal Fibre Powder. It includes a mix of some of our favourite calming herbs, plus a big dose of fibre to keep things in your gut moving smoothly.
Herbs can interact with some medications, so it’s important to check in with your qualified healthcare professional (like a naturopath – see our student intern) before using them.
Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health. So, give these herbs a try, create a grounding ritual with them, and find your calm.