In 2019, “ 301 million people worldwide had anxiety disorders, making it the most common category of mental disorders ”, according to the World Health Organization. Suffering from anxiety is therefore not uncommon. Fortunately, there are several plants that allow you to reduce your level of anxiety through herbal medicine.
1. Passionflower for sleep disorders and palpitations
Passionflower is a plant known for its soothing properties. It has even been used for several centuries for its calming effects on the nervous system. This is a natural remedy often recommended to combat sleep disorders and stress-related palpitations. By acting on nervous and physical tensions, passionflower helps regulate the heart rate and promote restful sleep thanks to a natural solution.
2. Valerian to combat mild anxiety
In herbal medicine, valerian roots are particularly known to combat mild anxiety. This plant native to Europe and Asia acts on the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that regulates brain activity. This action helps reduce nervous excitability, which promotes relaxation. Valerian is therefore particularly indicated in cases of agitation, nervousness or recurring and repetitive thoughts.
3. Hawthorn to reduce stress
Used in herbal medicine for many years, hawthorn is a plant known to combat the symptoms of stress. Hawthorn contains flavonoids, proanthocyanidins and catechins, substances that help regulate blood pressure and reduce tension in the vascular system. These actions help reduce stress-related sensations, such as heart palpitations. Hawthorn also helps you relax to fall asleep more easily and have more restful sleep.
4. In what forms should these plants be consumed to reduce anxiety?
To benefit from all the benefits of passionflower, valerian and hawthorn, it is possible to consume them in several forms:
- as an infusion, to drink one to three times a day;
- in food supplements, available in pharmacies;
- into herbal tinctures, which are concentrated extracts of plants in alcohol.
If, despite these natural treatments, anxiety persists, it is advisable to consult a health professional in order to benefit from appropriate care. As Public Health France specifies on its website, there are also several support systems for anxious people: helplines such as 0 800 130 000 and dedicated websites such as Psycom.org, which should not be used. hesitate to contact if necessary.
Sources
- Anxiety disorders, World Health Organization (WHO), September 27, 2023
- Depression and Anxiety, Public Health France, March 6, 2024
- Palpitations, Santé.fr, July 28, 2020