Anxiety is such a common problem that remedies for it--natural and otherwise--have become big business. Prescription medications are commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders, but many people are in search of the elusive "natural anxiety remedy" that will banish their symptoms without requiring intervention from a doctor or mental health professional. There are many options to choose from, most readily available through the Internet, but do these natural remedies actually work? And more importantly, are they safe? Before you purchase and take a natural anxiety remedy, you should consider the following:
What does the research say?
Scientific research has shown that certain natural compound do seem promising for the treatment of anxiety. These include kava, passionflower, valerian, theanine, chamomile, and gamma-aminobutyric acid. Many websites sell anxiety remedies containing these ingredients, and they will often cite research studies pointing to their effectiveness. What they don't point out is that the amount contained in their remedy, or the type of preparation used, may be nothing like what was shown to be effective in the study. Their remedy may work, but the science they quote is not necessarily evidence that it does.
Is it safe?
Being a naturally-occurring substance does not automatically make something safe for human consumption. Before you take any natural remedy, for anxiety or any other condition, it is important to research each ingredient to learn about possible side effects and drug interactions. Many commonly taken herbs, like St. John's Wort, have a variety of potential interactions with other drugs that many people overlook. And the FDA has warned that kava, which is available for sale in the United States, may cause liver damage in some people.
The bottom line? There are natural remedies that can help with anxiety, but it is important to be an informed consumer.
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