Anxiety is a healthy response to stressful situations in our lives. But when it starts occurring on a daily basis in response to everyday events, it has become an anxiety disorder, which is bad for our health. Living in a constant state of stress saps our energy, depletes our immune system, and disrupts our sleep. Physical symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal disorder to high blood pressure may be experienced. Psychological symptoms may vary, from irritability to depression.

In many cases, mild to moderate anxiety can be treated by herbal remedies instead of prescription drugs, which may be addictive and have other negative side effects. There are several different herbal remedies for anxiety. One that has stood the test of time and has been extensively researched is Valerian (valeriana officinalis). Also called "all-heal" because of its many other uses, valerian extract has been used as a tranquilizer for a thousand years. Considered one of the stronger herbal sedatives, it was once regularly recommended by American physicians and pharmacists and was listed in the U.S. Pharmacopeia from 1820 until 1942. It wasn't until the stronger pharmacological drugs came on the market that valerians use decreased.

Valerian lessens anxiety symptoms by calming the mind and body. It relaxes muscles and induces sleep. It has also been used as an herbal sleep aid for centuries, with no morning grogginess or loss of concentration.

Valerian contains many active constituents that may be responsible for its sedative effects. Some that have been identified are valepotriates, baldrinals, valerenic and valeric acid. They have been associated with valerian's effects on the central nervous system. Valerian works by attaching to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain. This is the same manner in which prescription drugs like valium and xanax work. The active constituents are found in the roots. The dried roots are made into preparations such as teas, tinctures, and extracts which are then used in capsules and tablets.

Side effects with valerian are rare when recommended dosages are used. Occasionally, stomach upset has been reported. Larger than recommended doses may cause headache, nausea, and restlessness. There have been reports of valerian having an opposite effect on a few individuals, causing restlessness and increased anxiety, instead of a calming effect. Since it may cause drowsiness, it is recommended that caution be used when driving or operating machinery. It may also increase the effects of prescription sedatives although there have been no known interactions with other drugs or alcohol. When discontinuing use, it is recommended that it be tapered off of, as opposed to stopping it abruptly.

Valerian is on the Food and Drug Administrations list of herbs generally regarded as safe. In Europe, it is widely used as a sedative and sleep aid and is approved by Germany's Commission E.

There is no single cure for stress. To really treat stress, it is necessary to look at your overall lifestyle and change your health habits where needed. The use of herbal remedies and other nutritional supplements is just one part of a natural approach to treating anxiety. It is also necessary to cut out caffeine, alcohol and sugar, which may trigger anxiety. Incorporating exercise into your daily routine is extremely beneficial. Relaxation techniques and/or seeing a therapist, if necessary, are also beneficial in learning to cope with daily stress.

A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any natural supplements and to diagnose a medical condition.

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