Herbal remedy for stress

Herbs for anxiety: 9 calming options

People with anxiety sometime consider herbal remedies as an alternative to prescription drugs. This may be because some medications, for example, beta-blockers or benzodiazepines, can have unwanted side effects.

It is important to talk to a doctor before reducing or stopping prescription medication or starting an herbal supplement. Some herbs can cause side effects or interact with other medications.

Here, we describe 9 herbs and supplements that could help to alleviate anxiety.

Ashwagandha or Withania somnifera is among a group of herbs called ‘adaptogens’.

Adaptogens affect systems and hormones in the body that regulate a person’s stress response.

Ashwagandha has a long history of use in traditional Indian, or Ayurvedic, medicine.

A small 2019 clinical trial investigated the efficacy of ashwagandha for stress and anxiety.

The 8-week study involved 58 participants with perceived stress. Each participant randomly received one of three treatments: Ashwagandha extract at doses of either 250 milligrams (mg) per day or 600 mg per day, or a placebo.

The participants who took ashwagandha showed less of the stress hormone cortisol than those in the placebo group. They also experienced improved sleep quality.

Participants who took 600 mg of ashwagandha reported significantly reduced stress levels. However, participants who took the lower dose of ashwagandha did not report a reduction in stress.

In another 2019 study, 60 participants with mild anxiety received 250 mg of ashwagandha or placebo for 60 days. Those taking the herb showed a significant reduction in some measures of anxiety but not others.

People can take ashwagandha as a tablet or in liquid tincture form.

Chamomile is a flowering herb similar in appearance to a daisy. There are two types of chamomile that people can use medicinally: Roman chamomile and German chamomile.

Some people use chamomile in the following forms to help relieve stress and anxiety:

tea
extract
tablet
skin cream

A 2016 clinical trial investigated the efficacy and safety of chamomile as a long-term treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

All 93 participants received 1,500 mg of chamomile daily for 12 weeks. Some then continued taking chamomile for the next 26 weeks, while the remainder switched to a placebo.

Researchers observed that those participants who continued taking chamomile were no less likely to experience a relapse of GAD symptoms than those switching to placebo. However, when relapse did occur, the symptoms were less severe.

Some people may experience allergic reactions to chamomile, particularly if they experience reactions to the following plants:

ragweed
chrysanthemums
marigolds
daisies

Chamomile may interact with certain drugs, including the blood thinner warfarin, and the antirejection drug cyclosporine.

Anyone taking any type of medication should check with their doctor before consuming chamomile teas or supplements.

Valerian or Valeriana officinalis is a plant native to Europe and Asia. For many centuries, people have used the root to help treat sleep problems, anxiety, and depression.

Valerian root is available in the following forms:

tea
tablet
tincture

To date, there have only been a few high quality studies on the effects of valerian. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) state that there is insufficient evidence to determine whether valerian can alleviate anxiety or depression.

Studies suggest that valerian is generally safe. However, the NCCIH note that there is no information on the long-term use or safety of valerian in the following groups:

pregnant women
nursing mothers
children under 3 years of age

People should also be aware that valerian may have a sleep inducing effect. Taking the herb with alcohol or sedatives will add to this effect and could be dangerous.

Lavender is a flowering plant belonging to the mint family. Many people use lavender to help calm the nerves and alleviate anxiety.

People may use lavender in the following ways:

making tea from the leaves
using the oil in aromatherapy
mixing the essential oil into a base oil for massage
adding the oil or flowers to baths

Lavender essential oil (LEO) contains chemicals called terpenes. A 2017 review article suggests that two of these terpenes called linalool and linalyl acetate may have a calming effect on chemical receptors in the brain.

The review suggests LEO may be an effective short-term treatment for anxiety disorders. However, studies of the long-term effects of LEO are lacking.

Galphimia glauca is a plant species native to Mexico. People traditionally used it as a tranquilizer to reduce anxiety.

A 2012 clinical trial investigated the efficacy of G. glauca as a treatment for GAD. Participants received either G. glauca or the prescription antianxiety medication lorazepam for 12 weeks. Researchers continued to monitor the participants for a further 3 weeks to test for withdrawal symptoms.

Results showed that participants who received a daily dose of 0.175 mg of G. glauca showed a greater reduction in GAD symptoms compared with those who took lorazepam. Both treatments were safe.

According to a 2018 review, the evidence for G. glauca as a treatment for anxiety is promising. However, medical companies have not exploited its potential due to a lack of available plant material.

Passionflower or Passiflora is a family of plants with around 550 different species. Some studies show that a particular species, P. incarnata, may be effective in treating restlessness, nervousness, and anxiety.

According to an older 2010 review of complementary treatments, some evidence suggests that the antianxiety effects of P. incarnata are comparable to those of benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are a class of drug that doctors may prescribe to treat anxiety.

People can take P. incarnata in tablet form or as a liquid tincture.

Kava kava, or simply kava, is a shrub that is native to the islands of the Pacific Ocean. Its scientific name is Piper methysticum.

In the Pacific Islands, people use kava in a ceremonial beverage intended to relieve stress and alter mood.

A 2013 placebo-controlled trial investigated the efficacy of kava as a treatment for GAD. The 6-week study involved 75 participants. Each person received one of three treatments: Kava extract at doses of either 120 mg or 240 mg per day, or a placebo.

Participants taking kava showed a significant reduction in anxiety compared with those who received the placebo, suggesting kava may be a moderately effective short-term treatment for GAD.

The study also found kava to be safe.

In 2002, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advised that taking supplements containing kava could result in severe liver injury. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) have since indicated that the link between kava and liver toxicity is unclear, saying that scientists need to re-evaluate the data.

People can buy kava as a supplement online or in health food stores.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the active ingredients of the cannabis plant.

Research from 2019 suggests that CBD may have a calming effect on the central nervous system.

Although the FDA do not currently approve the use of CBD, this natural chemical is widely available in the following forms:

tablet
liquid extract
vape liquid
topical cream

The study above investigated whether CBD could help to treat anxiety and sleep disorders. Researchers retrospectively analyzed data from 103 adults taking CBD as an additional therapy for anxiety and sleep disorders.

Of the 72 adults they included in the final sample, 57 experienced a decrease in their anxiety scores within the first month of taking CBD. These scores remained low for the 3-month study period.

The researchers concluded that CBD may be beneficial for people with anxiety-related disorders. However, clinical trials are necessary to confirm these results.

Other supplements that may help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety include:

A combination of the amino acids L-lysine and L-arginine: These amino acids may influence brain neurotransmitters that are involved in stress and anxiety.
Magnesium: Taking magnesium in combination with herbs such as kava and St John’s Wort may help to alleviate anxiety.
Essential fatty acids: These may reduce stress in females who are premenstrual, pregnant, or menopausal.
High dose sustained-release vitamin C: Females who take this supplement may experience reduced anxiety and a less drastic increase in blood pressure in response to stress.

Many herbs can interact with over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications. Some can increase or reduce the effects of certain drugs, potentially causing serious health effects.

People taking any kind of medication should consult their doctor or pharmacist before beginning herbal supplements.

They should also be aware that herbal remedies can take longer to start working than prescription medications.

If a person needs more advice about an herbal product, they should consult a qualified herbalist about brand, strength, and quantity.

The FDA does not monitor herbal remedies, so there are potential safety concerns for herbs that have mislabeling or contamination with heavy metals.

People have been using herbs for thousands of years to treat many health conditions. Scientific studies indicate that certain herbs may help to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety.

As with prescription medications, some herbal products can cause side effects. Herbal products may also take longer to begin working. People must consider these factors when weighing up the pros and cons of a particular treatment.

There can be serious interactions between certain herbs and medications. A person who is taking any kind of medication should consult their doctor before they begin taking herbal products.

Read the article in Spanish.

Homeopathy for anxiety: Treatments, research, and more

Homeopathy for anxiety uses mixtures of herbal, mineral, and other natural products to relieve anxiety symptoms. These very dilute homeopathic concoctions would sometimes be toxic in high doses.

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America report that anxiety is the most prevalent mental health condition in the United States, affecting 18. 1% of the adult population each year.

While many people experience relief from therapy, others find that therapy alone is not enough. Anti-anxiety medications may work for some people but can also trigger unpleasant side effects. While there is little scientific evidence to support it, some people find homeopathy helpful.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not regulate homeopathic treatments, so the ingredients in these treatments may be less consistent and, in some cases, dangerous. It is essential to speak to a doctor before trying homeopathic approaches.

Share on PinterestA person should speak to their doctor before trying any homeopathy product.

The theory behind homeopathy is that “like cures like,” and the lower the dosage, the more effective a treatment can be.

If a person has an illness, a practitioner may recommend that they take very low doses of a substance that would cause the same symptoms as their illness in high doses.

Homeopaths believe that lower doses of the same ingredient might reverse symptoms. There is no conclusive scientific evidence to suggest that these homeopathic remedies work.

The British Homeopathic Association, which uses this approach, highlights the following remedies for anxiety:

Arsenicum album: This herbal remedy may help with chronic anxiety, depression, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Ignatia: This may help depression or anxiety following a sudden trauma or shock.
Natrum muriaticum: This may help chronic stress and mild depression.
Sepia: Sepia may help people who feel drained and unloved, and it may be particularly useful with postpartum mental health issues.

The National Center for Homeopathy also recommend these additional treatments for anxiety:

Aconite: Some people believe this can help treat acute anxiety attacks.
Argentum nitricum: Practitioners may suggest this for individuals who have anxiety about small spaces, heights, bridges, and personal health.
Lycopodium: This may help those who have anxiety due to responsibilities, which may become a fear of failure.
Silica: Some people think silica can help those who have a lack of self-confidence and fear of public speaking.
Stramonium: Advocates believe this may help people whose anxiety is causing night terrors.

The limited available recent research on these remedies has mostly been in animal studies. For example, one 2012 study found that ignatia might relieve anxiety in mice. The mice who received this remedy displayed reduced physical signs of anxiety.

However, the authors of a 2017 systematic review and meta-analysis looked at 75 trials of homeopathic remedies. They found that “reliable evidence is lacking” and that the quality of the existing evidence was low.

Some other natural treatments with more robust research supporting their use include:

Lavender

Lavender is a popular ingredient in many natural products because of its pleasant aroma.

Some research suggests that lavender aromatherapy may improve a wide range of anxiety symptoms, including symptoms of generalized anxiety and phobias.

A 2010 study compared people with dental anxiety using lavender aromatherapy to those who received no treatment. Only the lavender group reported that their level of anxiety had decreased.

Another 2010 study compared people with generalized anxiety who used a lavender essential oil preparation called silexan to those who took the anti-anxiety drug lorazepam.

Both groups had similar improvements in sleep and anxiety. However, the lavender oil group was less likely to experience grogginess.

Valerian root

Valerian root, which is available in capsule form, may help relieve anxiety in some people. It is a popular home remedy for insomnia.

Some research in animal models, including a 2010 study, suggests that Valerian may help relieve anxiety symptoms. In the study, rats that received valerian displayed a reduction in anxious behaviors.

Learn more about taking valerian for anxiety and insomnia in this article.

Magnesium

According to a 2012 study, magnesium deficiency may cause anxiety. This suggests that magnesium supplementation may reverse anxiety in people who do not get enough of this vital nutrient.

A 2017 systematic review assessed the effects of magnesium supplementation on feelings of stress and anxiety. Researchers found that magnesium did improve symptoms of anxiety. However, the quality of the evidence was low, pointing to the need for more data.

Learn more about the symptoms of a magnesium deficiency in this article.

Passionflower

Passionflower has a long history of use as a sedative and may help relieve anxiety. The authors of a 2017 review found good evidence for its effectiveness in helping treat anxiety and nervousness.

Learn more about the benefits of passionflower for anxiety and insomnia in this article.

The fact that a remedy is “natural” does not mean that it is safe. The risks of using homeopathic treatments include:

interactions with other drugs
ingredients that the label does not list
contamination of ingredients
formulations that vary from bottle to bottle
safety issues that researchers have not studied or documented

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not evaluate the claims that homeopathic supplement manufacturers make. This means there is no certainty that the products work even when the manufacturers claim they do.

A person using homeopathic treatment for anxiety may also be at risk of allergic reactions or negative side effects.

Having anxiety does not necessarily mean a person needs to take medication. In fact, therapy, meditation, diet changes, exercise, and other lifestyle changes can be highly effective.

People can speak to a doctor or specialist, such as a therapist or psychiatrist, for help choosing the right treatment.

Anxiety is highly treatable with the right combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, medication.

While some natural remedies can make good complementary treatments for people with anxiety, there is little scientific evidence that homeopathy is safe or effective.

top-5 rating according to KP

Everyone knows 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.

Short-term stress and emotional outbursts usually do no harm. 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 develop bad habits such as smoking and drinking alcohol to relieve stress. Toxic substances exacerbate the situation.

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

Lotosonic

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.

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.

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*

Get priceView ingredients

* THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. CONSULT WITH A SPECIALIST

Advertisement. DOMINANTA-SERVICE JSC. 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.

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 form of tablets, 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.

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.

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.

“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. They stabilize that part of the nervous system that is responsible for the activity of organs and blood vessels. Disorder in the work of the autonomic nervous system due to stress can cause discomfort in the body,” says neurologist Irina Ignatova .

Additionally, you can take various nootropics - drugs that stimulate the brain. This will help him cope with complex mental work and recover faster.

For mental anxiety, obsessions, difficulty falling asleep, sedatives are suitable: homeopathic remedies or plant-based sedatives. They suppress the excessive activity of the central nervous system and soothe.

Articles of the network of pharmacies "Classic" - Pharmacy Classic

09/21/2017

“All diseases are from the nerves,” said doctors in the middle of the 20th century. However, the 21st century has come, and nothing has changed in this regard. The rhythm of life is still accelerating, the demands are getting higher, and the fatigue is getting bigger. Tips for normalizing rest and sleep patterns, improving nutrition and avoiding stressful situations help, but to help them they need to take medications that help the depleted nervous system restore tone and return to normal.

It is gratifying that modern pharmacology does not stand still and regularly supplies new and more advanced sedatives to the drug market. Their effect on the body manifests itself much faster, they have fewer contraindications and do not cause side effects that the drugs of past generations were famous for. In our selection, experts from the Classic pharmacy will tell you which sedatives are considered the best today.

1. Fitosedan (Sedative collection No. 2).

This sedative is one of the few all-natural stress relievers. At the same time, the absence of synthetic components does not in the least prevent it from exerting a powerful sedative effect on the body, and all thanks to an amazing combination of medicinal herbs such as oregano and thyme, valerian, sweet clover and licorice root. As practice shows, Fitosedan perfectly eliminates sleep problems and prevents the negative effects of stress, if it has not yet become chronic.

In addition, sedative collection No. 2 does not harm the body, which means that it can be used even during pregnancy and even children. The same applies to side effects. For example, Fitosedan does not cause drowsiness, and therefore doctors recommend drinking it in the afternoon, brewing one filter bag at a time, and drinking it like tea. Moreover, you can take the remedy even in the morning or at lunchtime, without fear of the appearance of a sleepy or inhibited state. With all this, Fitosedan is an affordable drug, the price of which will pleasantly surprise you.

2. Persen.

Persen is another herbal preparation that combines valerian extract with lemon balm and peppermint. In this combination, the substances from these herbs are able to have a mild relaxing and calming effect on the body. The drug Persen perfectly copes with neurotic conditions and unpleasant symptoms of stress, it is effective as a remedy for anxiety and depression, and besides, it bears the proud title of "The Best Natural Sleeping Pill". Moreover, experts often prescribe this medication for the prevention of psychosomatic disorders.

Separately, we will say that Persen is not at all addictive and does not reduce concentration, so it can be taken by people engaged in activities that require increased concentration. If we talk about the shortcomings of the drug, then this should include individual intolerance and hypersensitivity to the components of Persen. Persen is not prescribed to children under three years of age due to the lack of studies confirming the safety of taking the medicine at this age.

3. Tenoten.

This drug belongs to homeopathic remedies, the effects on the body of which are still disputed today. The fact is that the active substance of the drug is present in this medication in extremely small doses, and, according to some scientists, does not have a positive effect on the nerves. Nevertheless, numerous studies and reviews prove that the drug is excellent for people who are in a state of prolonged stress, those who suffer from neuroses and are faced with autonomic and psychosomatic disorders.

In addition, Tenoten improves memory and increases the body's resistance to stress. The undoubted advantage of the drug is that due to the minimum doses of the drug, Tenoten does not cause side effects. And the list of its contraindications includes only children under 3 years of age, pregnancy and lactase deficiency.

4. Deprim

This sedative is commonly called the "Most Natural Antidepressant", and all because its active ingredient is the St. John's wort plant, or rather its extract. For the first time, scientists became interested in the antidepressant effect of this medicinal plant in the mid-80s of the last century, and the opinions of American and European researchers diverged. The Americans considered that St. John's wort is not able to effectively affect the central nervous system, while European scientists proved that in the fight against depressive states, St. John's wort extract is in no way inferior, and in many ways even surpasses traditional antidepressants.

Today, Deprim is often prescribed to combat depression (mild to moderate), in case of low mood, anxiety (especially during menopause), as well as increased sensitivity to weather changes. True, you can buy medicine only with a doctor's prescription, and for children under 6 years old, it is contraindicated. In addition, it must be remembered that this medicine enhances photosensitivity, which means that it is better for fans of a beautiful sun tan or visiting a solarium to refuse treatment with Deprim. And yet - you should not combine taking this medication with another antidepressant, so as not to cause an overdose.

5. Afobazole

The drug Afobazole is rightfully called one of the best anxiolytics and tranquilizers of our time. This tool is the best combination of efficiency, safety and affordability. Judge for yourself, Afobazole perfectly calms the nerves and reduces anxiety, helps to eliminate insomnia and problems with falling asleep. In narcological practice, this drug is prescribed to people who decide to quit smoking or “quit” alcohol. Afobazole in this case perfectly eliminates the signs of withdrawal symptoms. The medicine is also used in psychiatry, where, in combination with other drugs, it eliminates some psychosomatic disorders.

Here it is worth mentioning the main advantage of the sedative in question. The fact is that Afobazole is the only tranquilizer that does not turn into addiction. Moreover, this remedy is combined with alcoholic beverages, which means that when taking the medicine, you will not attract too much attention to yourself at friendly parties and family celebrations.

At the same time, this medication is not prescribed to persons under the age of 18, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and people with lactose intolerance.

6. Gerbion

This is another combination sedative of natural origin, which includes valerian root, peppermint, hop cones and lemon balm. Thanks to this combination of medicinal herbs, the drug has a calming effect on the central nervous system. First of all, this effect is provided by valerian root. Hop cones enhance its effect on the nervous system, while lemon balm and peppermint have a relaxing effect and give the drug a pleasant taste.

Gerbion is recommended for people suffering from anxiety, those who need to cope with increased excitability, irritability, insomnia or constant stress. The medicine is produced in drops, and therefore, for most of the listed disorders, it is enough to take 20-30 drops a day so that unpleasant nervous disorders no longer bother you.

It is recommended to use Gerbion for adults, but for children under twelve years of age, the medication is prescribed only after consultation with a specialist. In addition, it should be remembered that Gerbion drops are produced on alcohol, which means that they should be used by persons driving a car and other means of increased danger with caution.

7. Novo-passit

This Czech drug is called the best drug with anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) action. Initially, Novo-Passit caused a lot of doubts as a sedative, because the active component of this drug is the substance guaifenesin, developed by scientists in 2012 to combat coughs. However, later it turned out that this plant substance, extracted from the bark of the guaiac tree, affects not only the cough center, but also the central nervous system, relieving a person of anxiety and perfectly calming “shaken” nerves.

Today Novo-Passit is used to combat such unpleasant conditions as irritability and anxiety, absent-mindedness, fear, and increased excitability. It is often prescribed to women to alleviate symptoms during menopause. Moreover, in combination with other drugs, Novo-Passit is used to combat allergies. Experts note the speed of the drug. Its beneficial effect on the body can be felt after 30 minutes, which makes Novo-Passit indispensable in the case of neuroses and reactive psychoses. However, every person taking this drug should be aware of the possible side effects in the form of nausea, vomiting, or dizziness.

In addition, Novo-Passit reduces reaction time and weakens attention, which limits the category of people who can take this drug. Children under 12 years of age are also not prescribed this sedative.

8. Phenibut

Phenibut is one of the best representatives of modern nootropic drugs, i.e. drugs that activate the brain and improve mental processes. At the same time, Phenibut is a universal remedy with tranquilizing (calming and relieving anxiety) action. Due to such a diverse effect on the brain and, in particular, on the nervous system, Phenibut is prescribed in case of difficulty falling asleep, constant fear, anxiety and other neurotic conditions.

Neurologists use this remedy to treat dizziness and tension headaches, in cases of "seasickness" (motion sickness) and Ménière's disease. In combination with other drugs, Phenibut is also prescribed for children. Let's talk about the negative impact on the body. Doctors do not recommend taking the medication for a long time, as in this case it can harm the liver.

9. Pantogam

This is another representative of nootropic drugs that protects the brain from oxygen starvation, increases mental and physical performance. At the same time, the drug has a moderate sedative effect on the body, which allows it to be used in neurotic conditions and the treatment of various addictions.

Interest in Pantogam is increasing year by year also because, against the background of the treatment of serious diseases such as schizophrenia, epilepsy or Parkinson's disease, this drug helps to cope with nervous breakdown, sleep disturbance and other consequences of stress. Moreover, it is widely used in pediatrics, improving children's memory and normalizing a child's sleep.

Pantogam is prescribed in the complex treatment of childhood epilepsy, as well as mental retardation in children. Psychomotor agitation in children is also a reason for prescribing this drug. The advantages of Pantogam include the fact that in the event of side effects, it is enough just to reduce the dosage of the medicine, as an unpleasant condition will immediately go away. However, among its side effects are drowsiness and lethargy, and in case of an overdose, a person becomes lethargic. In addition, the contraindication of the drug is pregnancy (I trimester), allergic reactions and kidney pathology.

10. Glycine

If we talk about the means tested over the years, which have long proved their effective effect on the nervous system, then the first among them is Glycine. Today, this remedy is in demand, as before, and doctors proudly call it the best sedative for children. This medicine, which improves metabolic processes in the brain, has been helping people cope with increased emotional stress, aggressiveness and conflict for more than a dozen years.

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