Anxiety
Natural Remedies

Effective Natural Remedies for Anxiety

Niacinamide
Posted by Cordell (Minto, New Brunswick, Canada)
5 out of 5 stars

I would like to share a remedy I successfully used to cure schizophrenic thoughts. I was always shy as a kid, and little bit "paranoid" I guess you could say. But when I turned 24 I gradually began to have more paranoia, coupled with anxiety, and sometimes felt I was hearing voices. No, not the audible kind that people usually hear, but more or less I felt there were more thoughts in my head than my own; too many to deal with at once. Some very hateful thoughts had emerged and I sometimes became obsessed over certain angry thoughts, feeling like I couldn't relax and eventually would have a panic attack and feel out of control, possibly cry from too much stimulation etc. I soon found myself trying to figure my thoughts out, but they often made no sense, and I would play psycho-analytical games with other people thinking I really knew what they were thinking about me. I was always suspicious, and eventhough I didn't want to feel this way that's what happened.

Anyway, I know there are others out there that share a similiar story: how they once felt normal than started having some sort of mental illness, be it brain fog (which I also had from the obsessive paranoia), or adhd or whatever it may be. Niacinamide could be the answer to your problems. On the advice of Ted, a famous contributor to this site, I began taking 2000mg - 3000mg of Niacinamide (niacin can be used, but the flushing may become too annoying at such doses for some people). I noticed within a couple days my excessive paranoid thoughts dimnished almost completely, but I continue to take 500mg tablets everytime I feel them coming back.

I also continue to take at least one B 50 tablet a day to prevent deficiencies. It works~! I realize not every form of schizophrenic thoughts may be cured this way, but its worth a try for anyone seeking help like I did. High doses of niacinamide have cured my excessive anxiety, paranoia, and schizophrenic thoughts and even helped to solve stomach ailments I have had for years along with keeping myself more alkaline.

The alkaline remedy I used with most success in over-acidity was 1/4 sodium bicarbonate, and 1/4 potassium citrate (a 99mg tablet) in a glass of water 3x a day. This also helps to keep me much more stable. When I added sodium carbonate to this mixture sometimes it also helped with over-anxious thought patterns, and to calm the brain down. I hope this helps someone like it did for me.

Peace and love. Cordell

Tight Undershirt
Posted by mmsg (somewhere, europe) on 02/15/2023
5 out of 5 stars

Whilst visiting a family with a special needs child, we noticed that the child was very nervous and was acting up. The mother said: Be right back! And took the child to the bedroom to change her undershirt into the "newfangled 'compression shirt'" she had just received from the Physical Therapist to try out. The difference was astounding: the child became calm, friendly and happy, participating in whatever was going on!!

I had always loved undershirts that "hugged". And now I found out why! How does it work? I dunno. But it does.


Chia Oil
Posted by Irina (New York) on 03/07/2022
5 out of 5 stars

I recently discovered chia oil. Like others who have posted here, flaxseed oil helped my anxiety - but both the seeds and the oil caused me to have sinus congestion. I thought maybe all kinds of Omega 3s would have a calming effect on me - but I was wrong - cod liver oil made me anxious and fish oil didn't help at all. I take chia seeds every day with only positive benefits and randomly came across an edible form of chia oil and thought I'd try it. The very first teaspoon I took had an instant calming effect that felt much stronger than flaxseed oil. I went from super anxious to extremely calm in literally just a few minutes. I am now taking 2-3 teaspoons of chia oil a day (spaced apart, with meals) I can't believe the difference in myself - I feel almost too relaxed to the point where I just want to rest a lot - and this is coming from someone who not only has anxiety. but hyperthyroid. Also, I am able to fall right to sleep at night. I highly suggest trying this oil if you suffer from any of the ailments I've mentioned - it's life-changing!

Acetyl L-Carnitine
Posted by Sandi (Arizona, USA) on 06/20/2021
5 out of 5 stars

Thanks to the info on here, I just tried acetyl L carnitine for my anxiety. I am pleased to say I think it's helping. My husband took it years ago for neuropathy and it was great. My son is trying it for his neuropathy as well. My anxiety has been so bad because my husband died six months ago after fighting lung cancer for 14 months. My checkup showed elevated blood pressure. High blood pressure causes anxiety which raises blood pressure which causes more anxiety and round and round. So I am so happy to find something besides Xanax that actually makes me feel somewhat better. Now hopefully I can get my blood pressure down. 🤪🤪

GABA
Posted by Janet (Ind) on 03/12/2016

Dear Ben.

Much of what you have written is correct and interesting. This post is less than helpful. Bht kills many an infection. As Oscar has said there is help in the newest medical treatment for this illness. But to discount all the cures and help bht has provided from both Oscar and Ted is disturbing to me. Janet


Holy Basil
Posted by Jenna (North Dakota, US) on 06/11/2014
5 out of 5 stars

For the last five days, I have experienced anxiety at a level of 8-9 on a scale of 10. Thought I would eat the ceiling, so horrible. I am normally a high energy person, but this anxiety was I guess a prolonged panic attack. Tried everything, magnesium, taurine, 5-htp, fish oil, passion flower, glutamine, calcium, breathing deeply and pranayama, thick brews of hops, sage, Shen's worry free pills, alcohol, valerian, a friend gave me some ambien to sleep, and the list goes on - about 10 more things. Thought I was going to die from a heart attack. Got it at the health food store - the brand that makes the liquid phyto-caps, which is the best in the country imo. Over 350 mgs per capsule. Instructions say 1 cap in between meals, but I was desperate, took 2,10 minutes apart, popped them open in my mouth. Unbelievable! The anxiety started to drain within an hour. Here I am 5 hours later late at night and really peaceful and softly tired. So grateful to the posters about Holy Basil and to Earthclinic!


Emotional Freedom Technique (Eft)
Posted by Anon (Anon) on 02/03/2013
5 out of 5 stars

I have used EFT for about 5 years and used it to help my niece relax at night before she went to sleep. I would tap lightly on her as she told me about her day. She was raised by her mom until she came to live with me, her mom had a lifestyle not suitable for a 4 yr old. So when the little girl moved in with me she had a few ODD behaviors. Like she constantly pulled at the crotch of her underwear, like she was frantically trying to get it not to touch her skin. She did something else as well that I can't remember. Anyway after a few weeks I noticed she didn't do those things anymore. She was more focused and paid better attention in school, just alot calmer. I also use it on my husband for relaxation purposes, he likes it. As for myself I use it almost everynight to get to sleep. It works and I love it!


Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
Posted by Missy (Kansas City, Mo Usa) on 05/22/2012
5 out of 5 stars

Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing. It can be done by looking left and right, hearing sounds in alternate ears left and right, crossing your arms and tapping your hands on opposite arms, or patting someone's legs left and right to help them. The idea is to stimulate the left and right hemispheres of the brain alternately while dealing with the trauma. I'm thinking it helps the emotional side of the brain and the logical side of the brain talk. You can read up on it on the net easily enough, but it's best that a therapist help adminster it for best results.

I heard that people in the 9/11 attack used EMDR with good results. I used it for getting past a rape and another invasive trauma. EMDR is the therapy that finally helped.


Rhodiola
Posted by Angelika (Schaumburg, Il) on 09/09/2010
5 out of 5 stars

I take Rhodiola in instances where I feel anxious or a bout of anxiety is taking over. Rhodiola is amazing! I do not like taking prescription medication and this is a wonderful alternative!


5-HTP
Posted by Gtijes (Allentown, Pa, Usa) on 08/29/2010

Does anyone know of a way to introduce something natural like 5-htp, and cut back on the prescription antidepressants? I wasn't sure if they interacted safely at all.


5-HTP
Posted by Gord235 (Vancouver) on 10/24/2021
5 out of 5 stars

I successfully transitioned from an anti-depressant, anti-anxiety medication(Paxil) to 5HTP-50mg by gradually reducing Paxil by 50% each day while increasing 5HTP TO 50mg. The whole weaning process took about four days. Note: experts say an anti-anxiety ant-depressant should never be stopped suddenly and I agree. I tried that once and found myself doing some irrational things.

CAUTION: I did find when I increased the 5HTP to 100mg, it actually increased my anxiety. This happened when my health food store brought in 100mg strength instead of the usual 50mg strength. Fortunately I realised what was happening and split the remainder in half and everything was fine from there on.


Acetyl L-Carnitine
Posted by Caricater (Smyrna, Ga) on 12/30/2011
5 out of 5 stars

Please note that L-Carnitine and Acetyl L-Carnitine are different! L-Carnitine can help you lose weight and improve heart function, but for anxiety and depression, ALC is the one you want. ALC may benefit those with glucose issues and has been shown to improve memory and cognitive function. There are studies that an increase in oxidative stress while taking ALC is possible. If so, 100-600mg of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) will not only combat this side effect, it will increase the anti-aging effects!


Flax Seed Oil
Posted by Jared (Sydney, Austrailia ) on 03/05/2009
5 out of 5 stars

I suffer with social anxiety disorder, I'm anxious and have difficulty thinking clearly in general not just in anxiety situations.I got myself flaxseed oil and took a tablespoon.I felt better instantly. My thinking became a lot clearer and my usual confused anxious state diminished. It definitely has a significant effect on brain chemistry. I'll be taking it everyday now :)


5-HTP
Posted by Molly (Madison, USA) on 04/11/2008
0 out of 5 stars

Warning

One time I purchased a bottle of 5-htp, and after taking one capsule morning & evening, just twice, I threw the bottle away. My reaction to 5-htp was horrific; upon further research I learned that high levels of serotonin are associated with SEVERE ANXIETY. I also read that the spice ginger is a serotonin antagonist, so I have a bottle on hand, just in case I ever feel so anxious ever again.

Then I read somewhere online that there is a set of people whose depression responds to Acetyl L-Carnitine, they said the depression lifted in these people when using 3-4 grams a day, and to take two grams of acetylcarnitine on an empty stomach, first thing in the morning.

This amino acid is the most amazing substance; I've never been able to take more than 2 grams per day - there is such great mental clarity, there is utter inability to be depressed, but there simultaneously is no euphoria - just calm lucid clarity. I've read that it assists the brain in making many different neurotransmitters - so it is not anything, not anything at all like 5-htp which floods the brain with serotonin - which, if you don't need it, might create severe anxiety.

Magnesium
Posted by Doris (Murfreesboro, TN) on 12/05/2007
5 out of 5 stars

My son suffered from anxiety and depression after his divorce. I read an article by George Eby about Magnesium Glycinate for depression. I bought my son some of the magnesium and after a few days he started feeling better and talked about having more energy and concentration. He took 800-1000 mgs. for a few days to build it up in his system, then backed down to 400 mgs. The Magnesium Glycinate really changed his life.


B12, Folic Acid, 5-HTP and Altoids
Posted by Justin (Port St. Lucie) on 08/22/2006
5 out of 5 stars

I was under constant attack from anxiety, and depression was setting in because of it. I saw a therapist who taught me about positive thinking and ways to get myself out of a panic attack. It kinda worked but was a constant effort to always be managing my moods and still fighting random panic attacks. I started self medicating with a popular narcotic made to ease anxiety. We all know it as a small white rectangular pill. I became dependant and my tolerance built up way to high. I lost my job, and almost my wife and kid because of that stupid pill! I checked myself into a rehab...mainly to get it out of my system while in a secure, stable environment. My mind was definetly set on getting that pill out of my life so it was easy to kick. When I got out I was so scared of my anxiety coming back...and it did! I then remembered someone telling me about B-12 and Folic Acid as a natural cure for anxiety. I went to the store found the vitamins and saw it was like $6 for a 3 months supply and said "what the heck, I'll try it".....2 years later only one ten minute panic attack! The one I did have was after a night of drinking and did not take my vitamins...so def. my own fault. I take 500mcgs of B-12 and 400 mcgs of Folic Acid twice a day (i'm a big guy) I rarely, very rarely even think of my anxiety.

I have also, overtime, added a supplement called 5-htp and always carry around Altoids. I take the 5-htp when it just feels like things aren't going my way, and within an hour I am as giddy as a 3yr old watching blues clues! The Altoids help me out just whenever, they give me my own personal break from everything. The freshness it gives just puts everything back on a balanced level. The extreme peppermint taste relaxes me. I pop one in before any stressfull meeting, event, issue and i'ts like my own personal shield from stress!

As a side note since taking these new vitamins I have only been sick with a cold for one day out of 2 years! I have not gotten a single sore throat, flu, ear ache...Everyone in my family can be sick and I get nothing! I feel invincible! Smiling more.

Valerian
Posted by Beth W. (AL) on 02/17/2022
5 out of 5 stars

Back when I was really sick, anxiety became a terrible side effect that left me debilitated on most days. I got so bad that I had to resort to Ativan for a couple of days to stabilize me. In the meantime, I did research and discovered valerian root and hops. I got both in tincture form (for me personally works way stronger/quicker) and for severe anxiety will take about 10 drops of both. Within minutes I felt relief that was possibly better than that from the ativan. While I worked through detoxing and getting well, I had to use this combo a few times and it has never failed me.


Acetyl L-Carnitine
Posted by Joseph (Stockton, CA) on 10/22/2021 75 posts

Hi Sandi,

I am very sorry for your painful loss, I know it can take its toll, however life goes on and I want to explain a few things to you. First of all there is a book out called “Medication Madness” by Dr Peter Breggin, you will learn a lot. Now Serpina I used for my ill son with Schizophrenia, mental illness, insomnia, psychosis, etc., it is an herb developed in 1934 in India as the worlds first Anti-hypertensive medication, it restores normal blood pressure in hypertensives. This pill also fights Anxiety (best), reduces fevers, calm the nerves, used as a sedative in some psychotic disorders. Almost no side effects except when taking Antipsychotics or cold flu medicines. Sold at Amazon for $7.00 for 100 pills 4mg. I took my son off of antipsychotics and replaced with Serpina for 8 successful years, he did well until OCD entered his life, then medication was given Antipsychotic poison again, needless to say I learned the hard way with interaction so I stop Serpina. You can stop cold turkey, no food is needed prior to taking. I will reply to questions. Joseph


Alternatives to Benzos
Posted by sue (PNW) on 10/18/2021

Hi Joe,

I was tapered off a benzo which I depended on for sleep for way too many years. I had tried to reduce many times on my own, and couldn't, but with the help of a new "doctor, " actually a young nurse practitioner, we were successful. It took six months plus to slowly taper down to a very, very low dose which seemed almost microscopic, but then I just couldn't go any lower. She then prescribed Doxepin, a tricyclic anti-depressant at a low dose. At a dosage of 75 mg and up it treats depression, but they have found that a low dosage of 3 - 6 mgs helps with insomnia. It has helped me, a lot, I am off of the benzo and sleeping better, with a clearer head. I don't know if this will help your son with his issue, PTSD and benzos, but it might be another tool available for his tool kit.

I hope he has as good a clinician as my young ARNP.


Brahmi Ayurvedic Herbs
Posted by Reet (Vic) on 02/22/2017 1 posts
5 out of 5 stars

I have been experiencing shortness of breath and anxiety for some time. But recently the frequency of these attacks has increased and it started affecting me almost every day. This is so bad that I cant focus on anything but just dreading with fear when / what will trigger the attack. When I get my anxiety attack I feel I can't breath, my heart rate increases, my hands get very cold, body start shaking and my mind starts thinking that I am dying . It is very fearful state. In blood tests everything is fine. So my GP put me on some anti-depressant. which I don't want to take at-least until I have tried alternative method.

Thanks to Earth clinic it has helped me in this time. I have started making few changes in my diet and overall I can see improvements. Brahmi is one of the herbs which has helped me. I feel my breathing becomes easy almost within 15min of taking it.

Other things that have helped me are Folic complex 500mg, B12 1mg at night and ACV + baking soda.

This is my first post here. What I went thru in last few weeks was so bad that I felt to share my experiences with other who might be facing similar issues and this might help someone.

Magnesium
Posted by Ray (Memphis, Tn) on 12/11/2016
5 out of 5 stars

I found researched about anxiety and panic for years and have found that magnesium plays a huge role in adrenal system (as well as vitamin b deficiencies). Epsom salt baths, celtic sea salt are both very good for also getting magnesium into the diet. Since the soils are so depleted in minerals due to pesticides, etc, is one of the biggest reasons we are so magnesium deficient no matter how many veggies we consume. Everyone is so depleted in magnesium also because most diets are filled with additives, chemicals, processed sugar and flour along with coffee (caffeine depletes minerals esp magnesium- from our bodies making anxiety much more prone than ever before.). Stress also plays a huge role but diet is always number 1.


Magnesium
Posted by Bj (Michigan, Usa) on 05/26/2015
5 out of 5 stars

The best supplement that I have used for chronic anxiety is magnesium chloride. I use a pinch (about 1/8-1/4 teaspoon), I usually put it in juice or hot molasses tea that I make to take my pure powdered vitamins. But I have dissolved it in 1/2 cup of water and swallowed quickly as it tastes terrible. Other types of magnesium do not work for my anxiety. Magnesium chloride has removed the 'what ifs', the racing thoughts, the chronic worry and the insomnia, especially when I take it before bed. It has also worked well for restless leg syndrome. I have taken it up to 3 times a day but usually no more than twice.

Now I just take it a few times a week or when I feel I need it. It will cause diarrhea so if this happens just cut back. I get aquarium grade pure magnesium chloride as there are no additives and tropical fish owners are well aware of how sensitive and valuable their fish are and so the supplements they use are high quality. I hope you find relief soon, as I do understand the debilitating cycle anxiety can be. ~Bj~


Ashwagandha
Posted by Kaylap (Abbotsford, Bc) on 02/03/2018 5 posts

My naturopath just started me on this. Fingers crossed it helps! I found that so far exercise has been the best remedy but hopefully the ashwagandha helps keep things level when I can't exercise.



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