Best remedy for anxiety


Natural Remedies for Anxiety: 10 Ideas

Anxiety is your body’s natural response to stress. It’s a feeling of fear or worry that could be caused by a combination of factors that researchers believe range from genetics to environmental to brain chemistry.

Some common symptoms of anxiety include:

  • increased heart rate
  • rapid breathing
  • restlessness
  • trouble concentrating

However, it’s important to note that anxiety can present itself in different ways for different people. While one person may experience a butterfly feeling in their stomach, another might have panic attacks, nightmares, or painful thoughts.

With that being said, there’s a difference between everyday anxiety and anxiety disorders. Feeling anxious about something new or stressful is one thing, but when it gets to an uncontrollable or excessive point and starts to affect your quality of life, it could be a disorder.

Some anxiety disorders include:

  • panic disorder
  • post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • separation anxiety
  • illness anxiety
  • phobia
  • generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
  • social anxiety disorder

Anxiety can be treated in a variety of ways. One common treatment option is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps provide people with tools to cope with anxiety when it occurs.

There are also certain medications, like antidepressants and sedatives, that work to balance brain chemistry and prevent episodes of anxiety. They may even ward off the most severe symptoms.

If you’re looking to go a more natural route, though, there are little and big ways you can help combat anxiety.

You can make adjustments to habits, like exercise, sleep, and diet. You can also try something totally new, like aromatherapy or meditation. No matter what your lifestyle demands, there’s a natural way to help reduce anxiety for everyone.

1. Stay active

Regular exercise isn’t just about physical health — it can be a huge help to your mental health, as well.

A 2013 study found that people with anxiety disorders who reported a high level of physical activity were better protected against developing anxiety symptoms.

This could be for a variety of reasons. Exercise can divert your attention away from something that’s making you anxious.

Getting your heart rate up also changes the brain chemistry to create more space for anti-anxiety neurochemicals, like:

  • serotonin
  • gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)
  • brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)
  • endocannabinoids

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), regular exercise leads to an enhancement of concentration and willpower, which can help certain anxiety symptoms.

When it comes to what type of exercise, this is more of a personal preference. If you’re looking to really get your heart rate up, something like a HIIT class (high-intensity interval training) or running is your best bet.

But if you’re looking to start off with something with a little lower impact, workouts, like Pilates and yoga, could also be just as beneficial for your mental health.

2. Steer clear of alcohol

Drinking alcohol may take the edge off at first, since it’s a natural sedative. However, research suggests there’s a link between anxiety and alcohol consumption, with anxiety disorders and alcohol use disorder (AUD) occurring hand-in-hand.

A 2017 review that looked at 63 different studies showed that decreasing alcohol intake can improve both anxiety and depression.

Heavy drinking can interfere with the balance of neurotransmitters, which can be responsible for positive mental health. This interference creates an imbalance that may lead to certain symptoms of anxiety.

Anxiety may temporarily increase in early sobriety but can improve in the long run.

Alcohol has also been shown to disrupt your body’s natural ability to sleep by interfering with sleep homeostasis. And as we’ll later point out, a good night’s sleep is incredibly helpful when combating anxiety.

3. Consider quitting smoking cigarettes

Smokers often reach for a cigarette during stressful times. Yet, like drinking alcohol, taking a drag on a cigarette when you’re stressed is a quick fix that may worsen anxiety over time.

Research has shown that the earlier you start smoking in life, the higher your risk of developing an anxiety disorder later. Research also suggests nicotine and other chemicals in cigarette smoke alter pathways in the brain linked to anxiety.

If you’re looking to quit, there are lots of different ways you can get started. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends finding a safe substitute for cigarettes, like toothpicks.

You can also take up habits that may distract you in order to create an environment that works for your smoke-free life. Additionally, you can make a plan with a support system who can provide everything from encouragement to distractions.

4. Limit caffeine intake

If you have chronic anxiety, caffeine is not your friend. Caffeine may cause nervousness and jitters, neither of which is good if you’re anxious.

Research has shown caffeine may cause or worsen anxiety disorders. It may also cause panic attacks in people with panic disorder. In some people, eliminating caffeine may significantly improve anxiety symptoms.

Similar to alcohol, caffeine and anxiety are often linked, due to caffeine’s ability to alter brain chemistry.

For example, a 2008 study showed that caffeine increases alertness by blocking the brain chemical adenosine, which is what makes you feel tired, while at the same time triggering the release of adrenalin.

With all this being said, a moderate intake of caffeine is safe for most people.

However, if you’re looking to cut back or completely cut out caffeine, you’ll want to start by slowly reducing the amount of caffeine you drink daily.

Start replacing these drinks with water to quench the thirst. This will not only satisfy your body’s need to drink a liquid, but it will also help flush caffeine from your body and keep you hydrated.

Gradually reducing your caffeine over the course of a few weeks can help adjust the habit without the body going through withdrawal.

5. Prioritize getting a good night’s rest

Sleep has been proven time and time again to be an important part of good mental health.

Even though a 2012 survey found that nearly a third of adults get less than 6 hours of sleep a night, the CDC recommends that adults get 7 to 9 hours of sleep every day.

You can make sleep a priority by:

  • only sleeping at night when you’re tired
  • not reading or watching television in bed
  • not using your phone, tablet, or computer in bed
  • not tossing and turning in your bed or going to another room if you can’t sleep
  • avoiding caffeine, large meals, and nicotine before bedtime
  • keeping your room dark and cool
  • writing down your worries before going to bed
  • going to sleep at the same time each night

6. Meditate and practice mindfulness

A main goal of meditation is full awareness of the present moment, which includes noticing all thoughts in a nonjudgmental way. This can lead to a sense of calm and contentment by increasing your ability to mindfully tolerate all thoughts and feelings.

Meditation is known to relieve stress and anxiety and is a primary facet of CBT.

Research from John Hopkins suggests 30 minutes of daily meditation may alleviate some anxiety symptoms and act as an antidepressant.

How to meditate

There are 9 popular types of meditation:

  • mindfulness meditation
  • spiritual meditation
  • focused meditation
  • movement meditation
  • mantra meditation
  • transcendental meditation
  • progressive relaxation
  • loving-kindness meditation
  • visualization meditation

Mindfulness meditation is generally the most popular form. To mindfully meditate, you can close your eyes, breathe deeply, and pay attention to your thoughts as they pass through your mind. You don’t judge or become involved with them. Instead, you simply observe them and take note of any patterns.

7. Eat a balanced diet

Low blood sugar levels, dehydration, or chemicals in processed foods, such as artificial flavorings, artificial coloring, and preservatives, may cause mood changes in some people. A high-sugar diet may also impact temperament.

If your anxiety worsens after eating, check your eating habits. Stay hydrated, eliminate processed foods, and eat a balanced diet rich in complex carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables, and lean proteins.

8. Practice deep breathing

Shallow, fast breathing is common with anxiety. It may lead to a fast heart rate, dizziness or lightheadedness, or even a panic attack.

Deep breathing exercises — the deliberate process of taking slow, even, deep breaths — can help restore normal breathing patterns and reduce anxiety.

9. Try aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that has been used by humans for thousands of years. The practice uses natural plant extracts and essential oils to promote the health and well-being of the mind, body, and spirit. Its goal is to enhance both physical and emotional health.

The essential oils created by the natural plant extracts may be inhaled directly or added to a warm bath or diffuser. Aromatherapy is suggested to:

  • help you relax
  • help you sleep
  • boost mood
  • reduce heart rate and blood pressure

Some essential oils believed to relieve anxiety are:

  • bergamot
  • lavender
  • clary sage
  • grapefruit
  • ylang ylang

10. Drink chamomile tea

A cup of chamomile tea is a common home remedy to calm frayed nerves and promote sleep.

A 2014 study showed chamomile may also be a powerful ally against GAD. The study found people who took German chamomile capsules (220 milligrams up to five times daily) had a greater reduction in test scores that measure anxiety symptoms than those who were given a placebo.

Another 2005 study found that chamomile extract helped sleep-disturbed rats fall asleep. Researchers believe that the tea may function like benzodiazepine, binding to benzodiazepine receptors and having benzodiazepine-like hypnotic activity.

Interested in other resources for mental health?

We’re here to help. Explore our evidence-driven reviews of top providers, products, and more to support your physical and emotional well-being.

If you’re feeling anxious, the above ideas may help calm you down.

Remember, home remedies may help ease anxiety, but they don’t replace professional help. Increased anxiety may require therapy or prescription medication. Talk with your doctor about your concerns.

Read this article in Spanish.

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Everyone may experience anxiety from time to time. Whether temporary or constant, anxiety can affect your quality of life, and finding relief can be a challenge.

It’s always best to talk with your doctor or a mental health professional as a first action. But sometimes, you may need or want to seek alternative coping methods in addition to more traditional therapies.

Read on to learn about a few research-backed natural remedies for anxiety. They may help you find relief for anxious feelings.

Chamomile is a common herbal tea ingredient. Some people drink chamomile tea because of the taste, while others may find it helps soothe and calm the mind.

According to a 2016 study, regularly drinking chamomile tea may reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Given that, should you try it out? It may be worth it. A chamomile tea drinking ritual is unlikely to have any side effects, so you don’t have to worry about it doing more harm than good.

However, it is important to note that chamomile tea, or extract, is not a replacement for traditional anti-anxiety medication.

Shop for chamomile tea online.

Is CBD legal?The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. This made some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC federally legal. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them federally illegal but legal under some state laws. Be sure to check state laws, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products, and some products may be inaccurately labeled.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is becoming increasingly popular, in part due to emerging research suggesting that it can help lower anxiety levels. While researchers do not totally understand the link between CBD and anxiety, current research is promising.

Animal studies suggest that CBD may help counteract stress in rats, while human studies point to CBD’s ability to help with the following anxiety disorders:

  • social anxiety disorder
  • post-traumatic stress disorder
  • panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and GAD
  • anxiety-induced insomnia

Research suggests that CBD is typically safe to use. And unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products, it will not leave you feeling “high.” However, taking too much can still cause side effects.

CBD can also interact with medications, so talk with your doctor before you start taking it.

CBD products for anxiety

If you’re interested in trying CBD for anxiety, here are a few products that may be helpful. Learn about how we select CBD products.

  • Medterra CBD Gummies, Sleep Tight. With added melatonin, these gummies may be useful for sleep. Shop now. Use code “health25” for 15% off.
  • Charlotte’s Web Hemp Extract-Infused Gummies, Calm. In addition to CBD, the lemon balm in these gummies may help soothe anxiety. Shop now. Use code “HEALTh25” for 15% off.
  • CBDistillery CBD Oil. Made with CBD isolate, this oil is a good option if you’re looking to avoid THC altogether. Shop now. Use code “healthline” for 20% off.
  • Lord Jones Royal Oil. A multipurpose product, this CBD oil can be used topically or orally. Shop now.
  • Joy Organics CBD Bath Bombs. If taking a bath helps you relax, these lavender-scented bath bombs may be a good choice. Shop now. Use code “healthcbd” for 15% off.

A popular herbal supplement for anxiety is valerian root. There’s some evidence that this perennial plant’s herbal preparation can help with anxiety.

A 2020 literature review found that valerian extract helped reduce symptoms of anxiety in multiple studies. Dosages in these studies ranged from 100-milligram (mg) single doses to 600 mg per day.

Learn more about valerian root dosage for anxiety here.

Oral lavender oil supplements may also help reduce anxious feelings. A 2017 literature review found that lavender oil supplements can be effective in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms, and improving sleep.

Drinks containing lemon balm may also help you reduce general feelings of anxiety.

However, supplements are not monitored by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and they may have side effects. That said, they may be a suitable option for treating mild anxiety symptoms.

It’s critical that you talk with your doctor before taking supplements since they can interact with certain medications. It’s also possible to take too much of a certain supplement.

Writing down your thoughts can help you process your emotions and sort your thoughts. You may find that there is something cathartic about writing, or typing, out your feelings.

Positive affect journaling (PAJ), where you regularly write down positive feelings about yourself, may help reduce feelings of anxiety. A study published in 2018 involving adults with elevated anxiety symptoms found that regular PAJ was associated with fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety after 1 month.

Other mindfulness practices, like meditation, can also help reduce stress and anxiety.

One literature review from 2014 concluded that meditation has some ability to reduce psychological stress. However, meditation is not a substitute for other treatments like medications and therapy.

Read our review of Headspace versus Calm.

If you’re already into the fitness scene, chances are you’ve spotted a T-shirt at some point that proudly states, “[insert fitness activity] is my therapy.”

While exercise is not the same thing as therapy, it can play a significant role in reducing anxiety. Regular exercise can also have a positive effect on depressive disorders and generally improve your overall health.

Exercises that increase your heart rate can help relieve stress and encourage your brain to release serotonin, a natural mood stabilizer.

Like the other remedies listed here, exercise is not a magic bullet. It’s often most effective when paired with other treatments.

Similarly, “dosage” might vary from person to person. There isn’t any research that quantifies the ideal amount of exercise to combat anxiety.

Get started with these at-home exercises.

Natural treatments will not work for everyone. If you have severe anxiety that affects your day-to-day life, talk with your doctor about the following treatment options:

  • Prescription medications. Your doctor may prescribe medications to help you manage your anxiety. This may include short-term symptom relievers like alprazolam (Xanax) and long-term antidepressants like fluoxetine (Prozac).
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT can often help identify the root cause of anxious feelings and assist you in dealing with them.
  • Support groups. Feeling anxious is common. There are many online and in-person support groups that may help you understand and manage your anxiety better.
  • Aromatherapy. People often use aromatherapy as a natural remedy for anxiety. There is a broad range of essential oils that you can use for this alternative treatment.
  • Limit caffeine. Consuming too much caffeine can induce feelings of anxiety, so limiting your intake may be beneficial.
  • Limit alcohol. Drinking alcohol is not an anxiety treatment. In fact, consuming excessive amounts of alcohol may even cause anxiety symptoms.
  • Stop smoking. Like alcohol, many people feel that smoking helps them deal with stress and anxiety. However, smoking tobacco can increase feelings of anxiety. Cutting down or quitting entirely may help.

Combining natural treatments with mechanical therapies, like breathing exercises and physical activity, is safe.

However, combining natural supplements with prescription medications may be risky.

It’s best to talk with your doctor before combining supplements with prescription medication — even if you’ve been using the supplements for a long time without negative effects.

It can be challenging to live with anxiety, but there are ways to cope. People with mild symptoms may be able to manage their anxiety with natural remedies, like CBD, exercise, and herbal supplements.

Not everyone will find relief with natural therapies, though.

If you have high anxiety levels and feel overwhelmed, talk with your doctor or a mental health professional. CBT and other psychotherapies are proven strategies for coping with anxiety.


Steph Coelho is a freelance writer with chronic migraine who has a particular interest in health and wellness. When she’s not click-clacking away on her keyboard, she’s probably nose-deep in a good book.

7 remedies for anxiety that don't work

Daniil Davydov

medical journalist

Author's profile

Many people now experience anxiety, and it can be difficult to deal with it on your own. About what ways can really help, we wrote in the article "5 tips on how to cope with anxiety in difficult times. "

However, some popular drugs and supplements that are marketed as anti-anxiety medications have no evidence of effectiveness. nine0003

Some of them are relatively harmless, but others have side effects and contraindications, so under certain conditions they can do more harm than good. If you are planning to purchase a medication for anxiety, we recommend that you consult with your doctor. And this list will help you make an informed decision.

Essential Skills in Times of Stress - WHO Picture Guide

What You Will Learn

  • Novo-Passit
  • Persen
  • Corvalol
  • Motherwort
  • Validol
  • Afobazole
  • Tenoten

Go to the doctor

Our articles are written with love for evidence-based medicine. We refer to authoritative sources and go to doctors with a good reputation for comments. But remember: the responsibility for your health lies with you and your doctor. We don't write prescriptions, we make recommendations. Relying on our point of view or not is up to you.

Novo-Passit

What is it. Phytotherapeutic tablets or solution based on herbal extracts of Valerian officinalis, lemon balm, St.

Novo-Passit - GRLS

According to the manufacturer, the drug helps with a state of constant mental stress and mild forms of insomnia.

Proof of effectiveness. nine0042 Novo-Passit is not mentioned in international databases of medicines, nor is it in clinical recommendations for the treatment of any diseases.

/list/medical-evidence/

14 authoritative medical sources

Some drugs are made from chemicals derived from plants. For example, cardiac glycosides are made from digitalis purpurea. But for the manufacture of the drug, not the whole plant and not the extract from it are used, but separate, carefully purified chemicals, the concentration of which is very strictly controlled. nine0003

Products containing extracts or whole parts of one or more plants are classified as herbal medicine and are considered dietary supplements in most countries. Therefore, they are neither in international drug databases nor in clinical guidelines for the treatment of diseases.

What is Phytotherapy - MedlinePlus Medical Guide

There is no need to look for evidence of the effectiveness of dietary supplements, since by law it is just food.

All that is required of them is to be safe, that is, not to harm the health of the people who take them. Since it is not necessary to prove the effectiveness of herbal remedies, they are very poorly studied. When it comes to complex herbal remedies, research is further complicated by the fact that they do not work the way they would work separately.

/dietary-supplements/

They say expensive dietary supplements are more effective than cheap ones. Is it true?

For example, although the European Medicines Agency, or EMA, considers valerian essential oil and rhizome preparations to have a calming effect, we do not know how this plant extract will work in combination with other plant extracts. nine0003

Valerian essential oils - EMA

Valerian rhizomes - EMA

Finding out how effective a multi-herb formulation works is also difficult because different researchers study different sets of herbal extracts at different concentrations. As a result, most scientists admit that we do not yet have reliable information on how effective herbal preparations based on herbs are for anxiety.

For example, psychotherapists in Switzerland who were trying to understand whether a combination of extracts of valerian, lemon balm, passionflower and butterbur helps with anxiety disorders. They gave part of the patients these supplements and compared the effect with patients who did not receive supplements, and came to the conclusion that the supplements can reduce the dosage of the main drugs - benzodiazepines. nine0003

Effect of a combination of extracts of valerian, lemon balm, passionflower and butterbur on benzodiazepine prescribing in hospitalized patients with mental disorders - Journal of Phytotherapy

Studies of this type are called case-control studies. Even if they show that patients got better, this cannot be considered conclusive evidence of the effectiveness of the drug, since doctors knew who was receiving which drug and could unwittingly embellish the result. Patients who received supplements could also believe in their power and feel better - this is called the placebo effect. nine0003

To understand how well supplements really work, you need to study them the way you study drugs, that is, subject them to a randomized clinical trial. With this procedure, patients are randomly divided into two groups, one of which receives the drug, and the other receives exactly the same type of dummy pills, and neither doctors nor patients know which group they fell into until the end of the experiment. But there are still no such works devoted to supplements with herbal extracts for anxiety. Until they appear, nothing definite can be said about whether they work. nine0003

Another component of Novo-Passit, guaifenesin, is known mainly as a cough suppressant and expectorant. There is still no convincing evidence that guaifenesin helps with coughing - but it has quite a few side effects.

Guaifenesin - a cough remedy - drugs.com

I have not been able to find studies of guaifenesin as an anti-anxiety agent.

Contraindications and side effects. In the instructions, the manufacturer writes that Novo-Passit is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age and people with intolerance to the components of the drug - especially guaifenesin. As a rule, it is well tolerated, but some people complain of allergies, dizziness, weakness, drowsiness and gastrointestinal disorders - from vomiting and heartburn to diarrhea. nine0003

The cost of the drug depends on the number of tablets in the package and the volume of the vial A pack of 10 tablets and a 100 ml bottle of solution cost about the same - 460-470 R
The cost of the drug depends on the number of tablets in the package and the volume of the vial A package of 10 tablets and a 100 ml solution bottle cost approximately the same - 460-470 R

Persen

What is it. Phytotherapeutic tablets and capsules based on the extract of rhizomes of valerian, lemon balm and mint. nine0003

Persen — GRLS

According to the manufacturer, the drug has a sedative effect.

Proof of effectiveness. Persen is not mentioned in the international drug databases, it is not in the clinical recommendations for the treatment of any diseases either. This is a phytotherapeutic drug similar to Novo-Passit, but with a slightly different composition. He has exactly the same problems with evidence of effectiveness. nine0003

Contraindications and side effects. According to the manufacturer, the drug should not be taken by people with hypersensitivity to its components, people with low blood pressure, diseases of the biliary tract, children under 12 years of age, pregnant and lactating women. The drug can cause allergic reactions - from rashes to edema, and with prolonged use, provoke constipation.

The cost of the drug depends on the number of tablets in the package. The price of a pack of 20 tablets is 351 R

Corvalol

What is it. Corvalol is sold in two versions:

  1. phytotherapeutic agent based on extracts of lemon balm leaves, peppermint and motherwort grass in tablets and water-based drops;
  2. phytotherapeutic agent based on extracts of lemon balm leaves, peppermint, motherwort herb, which contains phenobarbital. These are drops based on 95% alcohol.

Corvalol tablets - GRLS

Corvalol drops with phenobarbital - GRLS

According to the manufacturers, Corvalol in both versions "has a calming effect."

Proof of effectiveness. As a remedy for anxiety, both versions of Corvalol, both with and without phenobarbital, are not mentioned in any international drug database. In clinical recommendations for the treatment of any diseases, they are also absent.

There is no convincing evidence that any of the components of Corvalol without phenobarbital can work as a sedative. According to some studies, lemon balm tea or tincture relieves insomnia, and the smell of peppermint can reduce stress a little. But there is no evidence that in tablets or drops these components will act in the same way as in the form of tea or essential oil. nine0003

Possibly lemon balm tea or tincture helps with insomnia - RxList

Possibly the smell of mint can relieve stress - RxList

Why phenobarbital is dangerous - drugs.com

Corvalol with phenobarbital may indeed have a sedative effect - account, in fact, phenobarbital. This is a very old tranquilizer, in most countries its is prescribed only as an anticonvulsant and its use is strictly controlled, since phenobarbital is addictive and has many side effects. nine0003

Contraindications and side effects. Manufacturers of Corvalol without phenobarbital warn that it has quite a few contraindications: from allergies to its components to peptic ulcer, liver or kidney diseases, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Children under 18 years of age should not take the drug.

Manufacturers of Corvalol with phenobarbital add alcoholism and traumatic brain injury to the list of contraindications. Experts from other countries warn that phenobarbital is also contraindicated in severe asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, i.e. COPD, porphyria, and for people with a history of drug dependence in the past. The list of side effects of phenobarbital drops includes dizziness, weakness, nausea, decreased alertness, and rash. nine0003

/list/kardiologia/

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tablets

Motherwort preparations and supplements

What is it. Phytotherapeutic agents based on motherwort extract. According to the manufacturers, such drugs have a pronounced sedative effect - that is, they work as a strong sedative. nine0003

Preparation based on motherwort extract - GRLS

Motherwort-based supplements registered in Russia

Motherwort as a source of bioactive compounds - European Medicines Agency report medical reference book RxList

In Russia, there are both medicines and biologically active supplements based on motherwort - both in the form of liquid extracts and in capsules. nine0003

Proof of effectiveness. Motherwort-based preparations are not listed as an anxiety remedy in any international drug database. In clinical recommendations for the treatment of any diseases, it is also absent.

Theoretically, motherwort may have a potential neurological effect. Some substances in this plant can bind to receptors for gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA. This neurotransmitter is responsible for the inhibition of the nervous system, so the researchers suggested that the biologically active substances in motherwort would work in a similar way. nine0003

But when the substances in the motherwort extract that could work as sedatives were tested separately, their biological effect was very weak. Most likely, patients with anxiety would simply not feel its effects.

The effectiveness of motherwort remedies in healthy people with severe anxiety has not been tested. According to some studies, the combination of motherwort, valerian, hops, and lemon balm improves sleep in people with alcoholism who are trying to quit drinking. However, there is no conclusive evidence for this yet. nine0003

Contraindications and side effects. Motherwort preparation companies warn that some people may have allergies or digestive disorders - indigestion, that is, pain or discomfort in the stomach, and diarrhea.

Motherwort preparations and supplements are contraindicated in people taking neurological preparations based on calcium hydroxybutyrate, magnesium hydroxybutyrate, potassium hydroxybutyrate, or sodium hydroxybutyrate. Motherwort can enhance the effect of such drugs - up to severe poisoning and coma. nine0003

Motherwort is not compatible with hydroxybutyrates - Medscape Medical Guide

Some pharmaceutical companies offer motherwort extract based on 70% alcohol. According to the instructions, you need to use the drug in 30-50 drops diluted in water - the maximum content of ethyl alcohol in such a dose is 0.55 g, and in the maximum daily dose - 2.2 g.

International organizations believe that women can take no more than one standard serving of alcoholic beverages per day, and for men no more than two servings. This is 14 g of pure ethanol. nine0003

The amount of ethyl alcohol that can be obtained with the maximum dose of the drug is much less than the standard serving of alcohol. Nevertheless, people who take drugs that are incompatible with alcoholic beverages, such as antidepressants, should, just in case, abandon the alcohol tincture of motherwort.

The cost of the drug depends on the pricing policy of the manufacturer. The cheapest package of 10 tablets can be bought for 18 R

Validol

What is it. nine0042 Sublingual tablets based on levomenthol - a substance that is obtained from peppermint essential oil.

Validol - GRLS

Manufacturers claim that this drug "has a sedative effect" - that is, it works as a sedative.

Proof of effectiveness. Levomenthol-based drugs are not listed as anti-anxiety drugs in any international drug database.

In some countries, levomenthol is approved only as an external agent for veterinary use. It is mainly used as a cough suppressant, anti-inflammatory and antipruritic drug in humans and animals. nine0003

Levomenthol — drugs.com

How levomenthol is used in medicine — PubChem chemical guide

No one has studied the effectiveness of peppermint essential oils and levomenthol preparations for anxiety in people.

Contraindications and side effects. There are few contraindications for drugs with levomenthol: mostly it is an allergy or intolerance to the components of the drug, the medicine is not suitable for children under 18 years of age. But there are side effects: nausea, watery eyes and dizziness. According to the manufacturers, the drug is incompatible with alcohol. nine0003 The cost of the drug depends on the number of tablets in the package and on the pricing policy of the manufacturer. The cheapest package of 20 tablets costs 54 R

Afobazol

What is it. A drug based on a substance that received the international name fabomotizol. In our country, "Afobazol" of immediate and delayed action is sold. In the delayed-release preparation, the concentration of the active substance is three times higher, and it is absorbed during the day.

Afobazol - GRLS

According to the manufacturers, tablets with fabomotizol reduce anxiety and stimulate the nervous system.

Proof of effectiveness. Fabomotizole is not listed as an anti-anxiety drug in any international drug database.

The effectiveness of "Afobazole" as a remedy for anxiety was studied only in Russia - the drug is not used anywhere else in the world. I could not find independent studies on the effectiveness of the active substance for anxiety. nine0003

Contraindications and side effects. Among the contraindications, the manufacturer lists only individual intolerance to the components of the drug, age under 18, pregnancy and the period of feeding a child. And among the side effects are allergies and headaches.

An immediate drug. Price: 720 R Delayed drug. As a rule, slow-acting drugs are more expensive. Price: 894 R
Immediate drug. Price: 720 Р Delayed action drug. As a rule, slow-acting drugs are more expensive. Price: 894 R

Tenoten

What is it. Lozenges based on lactose sugar. The composition of the drug intended for adults includes antibodies to the brain-specific S-protein at a concentration of 10 -15 ng / g, and the children's version - 10 -16 ng / g.

Tenoten for adults - GRLS

According to the manufacturer, it has a calming and anti-anxiety effect.

Proof of effectiveness. The concentration of the active substance makes it possible to recognize Tenoten as a homeopathic remedy, since at a concentration of 10 -15 -10 -16 ng / g, not a single antibody may appear in the tablet. But even if there were more antibodies, manufacturer-independent data that antibodies to the brain-specific S-protein reduce anxiety, no.

On the pseudo-science of homeopathy - Memorandum No. 2 of the RAS commission on combating pseudo-science

Contraindications and side effects. Although Tenoten does not actually contain an active ingredient, the manufacturer believes that its use may be harmful to people suffering from lactose intolerance and glucose-galactose malabsorption - in this rare hereditary disease, a person cannot absorb glucose and galactose normally.

How I gave up sugar

Tenoten for adults costs 360 R Children's version of the drug - 296 R
"Tenoten" for adults costs 360 R Children's version of the drug - 296 R

top-5 rating according to the KP version

Everyone is well aware of the phrase "all diseases are from nerves." Indeed, prolonged stress undermines our health, reduces immunity. As a result of constant failures, diseases to which a tendency has been observed develop. For example, if you have relatives with hypertension, you have a high risk of developing the disease after prolonged stressful conditions. nine0003

Short-term stress and emotional outbursts are usually not harmful. Much more dangerous is the sluggish nervous tension that often occurs among residents of megacities. Lack of sleep, city noise, worries at work lead to prolonged, but unnoticed depression, fatigue, mood and sleep disorders. This can drag on for years until the person "breaks loose", falling into a panic or aggressive state.

Many people unknowingly acquire bad habits, start smoking and drinking alcohol to relieve stress. Toxic substances exacerbate the situation. nine0003

You can keep your nervous system healthy in other ways. Go in for sports, walk in the fresh air, consult a psychotherapist, take supportive drugs. Light drugs are not addictive and act on the brain quite gently. Therefore, you can buy the best pills for stress and nerves without prescriptions.

Top 5 rating according to KP version

1. Lotosonic

Lotusonic

Combined herbal medicine. It has anxiolytic and anti-stress activity. It is produced in Vietnam, so its recipe contains components that are widely used in traditional oriental medicine. It consists of extracts of seeds and embryos of the walnut lotus, seeds of thuja orientalis and Chinese dates, rhizomes of Dioscorea, mulberry leaves and erythrina, as well as the fruits of euphoria longana. nine0003

Components of Lotusonic reduce irritation and tension, which are manifested in mental fatigue and neurasthenia. When taking other sedative, hypnotic drugs, as well as antihypertensive and analgesics, the dosage should be adjusted, since the drug enhances their effect. The effect of Lotusonic is cumulative, as with most herbal preparations.

natural herbal composition based on recipes of traditional oriental medicine; indicated for increased excitability, irritability, fatigue; additionally, with insomnia, it helps to restore normal sleep; not addictive; low price. nine0003

not allowed under 18; can not be pregnant and lactating; allergic reactions are possible; during the period of treatment should refrain from driving.

Lotusonic

Helps fight stress manifestations

Combination medicine Lotusonic has anti-stress activity and helps to cope with irritation and tension. It contains herbal ingredients used in traditional oriental medicine

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THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. CONSULT WITH A SPECIALIST

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2. Glycine tablets

Glycine tablets Photo: market.yandex.ru

This drug is usually prescribed as an additional support for the brain with constant overstrain: stressful work, difficult studies. Tablets regulate metabolism and improve the processes of inhibition in the central nervous system. This reduces tension and aggression.

Also, the drug reduces the consequences after brain injuries, after alcohol or drug poisoning.

improves mental performance; improves sleep; no side effects; possible during pregnancy and children; low price

cumulative effect, not effective immediately

3.

Novo-Passit solution Novo-Passit. Photo: TEVA

Herbal preparation, consists of a complex of valerian, hops, lemon balm and others. The herbal complex has a calming effect, effective not only with anxiety, but also with more severe disorders. For example, with itching, migraines, intestinal diseases, bouts of neurasthenia, which are caused by psychological stress. nine0003

The product contains ethanol - alcohol, which should be taken into account. During pregnancy, the drug is not recommended to be taken, but according to certain indications, they are at risk. For convenience, there is also a tablet form, but the solution is absorbed and acts faster.

natural composition; fights many nervous diseases; improves sleep; palatable

possible side effects; recommended to stop driving; not allowed under 12 years of age; not for breastfeeding mothers; inconvenient form of reception; not compatible with certain medications; high price

4. Afobazole

Afobazole tab. Photo: market.yandex.ru

This drug is one of the most “strong” in our ranking of the best pills for stress and nerves, it belongs to tranquilizers and antidepressants. It is used for anxiety, anxiety attacks, sleep disorders. It also facilitates the course of many diseases: asthma, hypertension, arrhythmias.

The drug is especially indicated for vulnerable, suspicious people, prone to tearfulness or irritability. Taking pills makes it easier to endure premenstrual syndrome, as well as the "withdrawal syndrome" with a sharp rejection of bad habits, smoking and alcohol. nine0003

protects nerve cells; eliminates anxiety; relieves depression; fights many nervous diseases; does not cause lethargy and addiction; practically no side effects.

not allowed under 18; not during pregnancy and lactation; cumulative effect, does not appear immediately; high price.

5. Motherwort forte

Motherwort forte tab. Photo: market.yandex.ru

In fact, it is not a medicine, but a dietary supplement, a source of vitamins, magnesium and flavones. Their accumulation has a very mild calming effect and is suitable for minor anxiety as an additional support for the body. With severe stress and its physical manifestations, the drug may not work immediately. Sometimes you have to take pills for more than a week before the effect appears. nine0003

natural composition; reduces the level of anxiety; no side effects; does not cause addiction and drowsiness; low price.

cumulative effect; not allowed under 18 years of age; not allowed during pregnancy and lactation.

How to choose pills for stress and nerves

You should not prescribe even light sedatives on your own. Most likely, they will not cause direct harm, but they can “blur” the picture of the course of a nervous disease. You may actually need a different type of medication and psychotherapy sessions. Therefore, it is better to consult a neurologist or a psychotherapist. nine0003

“The drug should be chosen according to the problems. If you experience "bodily anxiety" - a feeling of tingling in the body, a coma in the throat, a feeling of lack of air, pressing pains and tightness behind the sternum, it is better to choose drugs with the properties of a vegetative stabilizer.


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