By Jonathan Evans
Herbal Information Specialist/Business Representative for the Herbarium
Anxiety, it seems, is on the increase. Here at the Herbarium, at least three or four people a day complain about the condition. It may not be the primary reason for their trip to the shop, but in the course of talking to them, the problem of anxiety appears.
So what is anxiety?
Anxiety is defined as “ an unpleasant emotional state ranging from mild unease to intense fear.” Anxiety differs from real fear in that fear is a rational response to actual danger, where anxiety usually –but not always– lacks a clear or realistic cause. While some anxiety is normal and healthy, higher levels can lead to significant problems. Anxiety is often accompanied by a variety of symptoms ranging from heart palpitations, pains or tightness in the chest, hyperventilation, tension in the neck and back muscles leading to headaches, back pains
and muscle spasms, excessive sweating, dry mouth, digestive difficulties, difficulty falling asleep or frequent urination and defecation.
Individuals usually have a constant nagging feeling something bad is going to happen. At night they get “monkey mind” – the constant chatter of their brain that just won’t shut off. An inability to relax and lack of sleep combine to make things get worse.
Diet can also exacerbate the problem. Sugar, caffeine, junk and processed foods are weakening to the body’s systems and can cause more acute anxiety.
Standard suggestions for dealing with anxiety include exercise, a hobby or treating yourself, or taking a day off. If your anxiety is based on your economic or job situation, the last ones may not be helpful suggestions. However, you can still do something for yourself to help abate your anxiety. Take a walk, just for the sheer pleasure of taking a walk, not because it’s good for your heart. Treat yourself to something inexpensive or simple. Buy an ice cream cone, or go swing on a swing at the local playground.
Nutritionally, we have seen some simple herbs and supplements make a world of difference. The proper intake of B complex vitamins is very important for handling stress and calming nerves. Magnesium is right up there with the Bs. Kava Kava is a specific herb for anxiety, as is Lemon balm, and Passionflower. There are several homeopathic remedies that can work quickly to alleviate anxiety or get you out of a panic attack, and a new flower essence combination that helps with the emotional and spiritual aspect of anxiety. We also have a combination of essential oils that can help with anxiety or a panic attack.
If you are on medications for your condition, magnesium, B vitamins and the essential oils or homeopathics can be utilized while using the medications or as you are weaning off them. Talk with your health care professional.
Try not to take yourself too seriously. Volunteer somewhere. It really helps to put your situation in perspective, and helps with feeling grateful. Gratitude is an attitude. Keep that in mind. A wise man once said, ”Regret and fear are twin thieves who rob us of today.” How true. Regret is the past, and you cannot change it, while fear is the future, and I have it on good authority that no matter what you do, all the worry will not change the future, it just makes you feel lousy today.
Here is a little trick to try. Every time you mind goes to the “what if” scenario, just say” next thought.” It can help you get back to the present, which is where we all need to be. If your anxiety and stress are overwhelming, seek professional help. Many times a good therapist can get you refocused and on the right track.
There is also a program called the Landmark Education Forum located in Quincy, Mass. I highly recommend this program to many people. It can get you into the present, and help keep you there. It can help to understand and deal with the past, and make your future enjoyable
— Jonathan
Please send your questions on botanical remedies to Natures Rx: Jonathan Evans via email at herbarium258@gmail.com, or by regular mail to: The Herbarium, 264 Exchange St., Chicopee, Mass. 01013. If requesting additional information from Evans, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
