Occurrence of “natural” benzodiazepines

The researchers concluded it has positive effects similar to the effects of standard anti-anxiety medications (20-22). Constituents of valerian root also appear to increase serotonin receptor activity, though the specific compounds responsible for this effect — aside from valerenic acid — remain unclear 19. The serotonergic and GABAergic properties of valerian are likely responsible for its sedative and calming effects. Magnesium is a mineral found in various green vegetables and some lentils and supports bone mineralization, protein building, muscular contraction, nerve impulse transmission, and immunity. Ashwagandha has been used for the treatment of anxiety and depression in multiple clinical trials, and the results are consistently favorable with subjects showing upwards of 50% reduction in symptoms 9. KSM-66® Ashwagandha tends to be the most popular extract used in clinical studies.

The Benefits of Natural Alternatives to Xanax

Magnesium supplements come in several forms; some are well-absorbed, some are not. Sadly, most magnesium supplements contain an inferior form –magnesium oxide – which has poor bioavailability 14. Transparent Labs Magnesium Bisglycinate capsules contain chelated magnesium which is gentle on the gut and readily absorbed 15. Since GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, an increase in GABA receptor activity elicits anticonvulsant, hypnotic, muscle-relaxant, and ataxic effects. The effects of GABA are essentially the inverse of caffeine, which stimulates the central nervous system (and may potentiate anxiety). Per my doctor’s recommendation, I bought a kava tincture from Whole Foods and added several drops to a glass of cold water.

Seven Ashwagandha Benefits for Female Health

You can find this specific ingredient in Transparent Labs KSM-66® Ashwagandha capsules. If you’re considering natural Xanax alternatives, L-theanine should be near the top of your list. L-theanine is a non-dietary amino acid found predominantly in green tea leaves. Instead of being incorporated into proteins like other amino acids in the body, theanine exerts nootropic effects by crossing the blood-brain barrier and regulating brainwaves and GABA receptors 5. Those suffering from anxiety and depression are commonly prescribed Xanax. This pharmaceutical can offer relief from symptoms, however it can come at a high cost.

• Engaging in light exercise is another effective natural remedy for reducing anxiety.
• In addition to personalized guidance, healthcare professionals can offer the latest evidence-based recommendations on which natural alternatives are most effective for anxiety management.
• Interestingly, prebiotic foods that encourage the growth of beneficial gut bacteria can also reduce anxiety.
• Benzodiazepines are widely used to treat anxiety, sleep disorders, and depression.
• The term “therapist” can apply to a range of professionals including social workers, mental health counselors, psychologists, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, and psychoanalysts.
• This makes it unique, as it calms the mind without causing drowsiness, a common side effect of many anti-anxiety medications.

Xanax: The Most Widely Prescribed Anti-Anxiety Medication

CBD oil can be consumed in a variety of ways, including ingesting it directly, adding it to food or drinks, or applying it topically to the skin. It is important to note that CBD oil is legal in many countries, but regulations vary depending on the specific laws of each location. Try Aromatherapy

What is the best benzodiazepine for anxiety?

Individuals taking theanine experience a reduction in heart rate and salivary immunoglobulin A, both of which typically spike during stress (40-41). By modulating the activity of NMDA receptors in the brain, magnesium can help regulate neural excitability, preventing overstimulation and promoting calmness (32). Along with its anxiety-reducing properties, chamomile also exhibits antidepressant activity (30). Chamomile contains apigenin, which is an antioxidant that binds to certain receptors in the brain, which then promotes relaxation and reduces insomnia. Its mild sedative effect is one reason why chamomile tea is a popular bedtime drink (27). Many people today are turning to Ashwagandha as a natural alternative to pharmaceuticals like Xanax.

Many individuals, especially in the Western world, are magnesium-deficient and would benefit from supplementation. Magnesium is also involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters like GABA, which are crucial for the regulation of anxiety and mood (35). Studies have shown that Ashwagandha can significantly reduce cortisol levels (25). Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is a herb used in Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient Indian system of natural healing. The primary active compounds in Kava are kavalactones, which are believed to affect neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly GABA and dopamine (19). This method offers immediate relief, especially in acute stress situations.

Do You Suffer From Stress and Insomnia?

• For most patients, Talkiatry treatment is just as effective as in-person psychiatry (American Psychiatric Association, 2021), and much more convenient.
• One of the primary ways Ashwagandha combats stress and anxiety is by regulating cortisol levels.
• Researchers have found that certain strains can alleviate anxiety and improve overall mood (57).
• Valerenic acid is an allosteric modulator of these receptors, much like alprazolam (Xanax) 17.
• Hopefully, future human studies of valerian root will focus on treating mental health conditions.

As the name implies, antidepressants are designed to treat depression, but they can be effective against anxiety as well. It has a long history of use for relieving stress and tension and helping people feel calm and relaxed. It contains compounds known as flavonoids which appear to bind to GABA receptors and have an anxiolytic and sedative effect. People who take skullcap do tend to feel more relaxed but there is no reliable evidence that it can treat anxiety disorders.

We investigate and correct the source of the problems that resulted in being prescribed Xanax. Meditation is a mindfulness practice that involves focusing on the present moment and quieting the mind. It has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress by promoting relaxation and increasing awareness of thoughts and emotions. Scheduling regular aromatherapy massages can result in reduced stress and anxiety levels, improved sleep, and increased feelings of relaxation and calmness.

For instance, when paired with Valerian root, the combination can be particularly effective in treating insomnia and restlessness. This makes it unique, as it calms the mind without causing natural version of xanax drowsiness, a common side effect of many anti-anxiety medications. But beyond its aromatic allure, lemon balm has a longstanding reputation in herbal medicine.

Aside from these short-term symptoms, anxiety can also take a real toll on other components of health. It can impair immune function, wreck libido, zap energy levels and may even be linked to the development of heart problems, respiratory issues and digestive disorders. A study published in 2022 compared meditation and the antidepressant Lexapro for anxiety and found that the two were equally effective at managing symptoms. The researchers say that meditation works because it combines breathwork with an emphasis on staying present—so you’re not dwelling in worries about the past or the future. In the study, the meditating participants took regular mindfulness classes, but if you’re interested in trying meditation, you can easily start on your own with meditation apps or other online resources.