Browse all topics • See what's new
The Best Herbs For Anxiety Relief
These herbal remedies can gently calm you on anxious days.
Researched, written by 
Amber & The Team
Updated on July 9, 2023
// We recommend helpful products in our articles. Read our full disclosure here.
People who suffer from anxiety often choose herbal treatments over prescribed medications.
Because of their constant anxiety, people who are naturally anxious tend to avoid prescribed drugs due to possible side effects (I used to be one of those people).
These unwanted side effects can worsen the situation sometimes.
However, the herbs for anxiety are usually all pure, gentle, and generally safe to use.
Of course, it is always a good idea to consult your doctor before replacing prescription medicine with herbs.
But some herbs for anxiety can cause only minor side effects compared to prescription drugs.
Many types of research have been conducted on the treatment of anxiety disorder and the efficiency of herbal medication for treating it.
All these researches have concluded that herbs for anxiety do have a strong impact on mental health.
Other complementary approaches like meditation and daily exercise are also very helpful.
If you are thinking about shifting to herbs for anxiety relief, you might be looking for some options to start from.
Here are some gentle herbs that are proven to be very effective in anxiety treatment.
I have personally tried all of them so I will give you my own experience as well.
The Best Herbs For Anxiety Relief
1. Valerian root
Valerian is a native plant of Asia and Europe.
For centuries, it has been used to treat stress, anxiety, muscle tension, and insomnia.
It contains a specific acid that helps your body relax and sleep & relaxation come naturally after.
This beautiful herb for anxiety is available in a tablet, tea, or tincture form.
I have personally tried both tea and tincture of valerian root and it’s the first herb I would choose to soothe my anxiety.
It’s especially great when you struggle to sleep without anxiety as valerian has a mild sedative effect.
Buddha Teas Organic Valerian Root Tea
The trick with valerian root is to take it for several days.
Not only does it calm you instantly, but it will also calm down your whole nervous system, which tends to get VERY active when you’re experiencing anxiety attacks (oh trust me, I know…).
Here are some important things to know before using valerian herbs for anxiety:
- You must not take it during pregnancy or breastfeeding;
- It is not suitable for kids;
- Avoid using it before any activity that requires being alert (because valerian might cause drowsiness);
- Do not use it with other sleep-inducing medicine.
2. Lavender
This beautiful flowering plant is related to the mint family – and God does it smell good!
Plenty of research has proved that lavender is a very effective herb for anxiety because it is one of the most effective herbs for when you need to calm down, relax and have a better night’s sleep.
It reduces nervousness, brings peace, and makes you just feel a bit better.
Also, many people use lavender scents at home for a nice tension release.
You can use lavender oil as an aromatherapy ingredient, mix it with another oil for a soothing massage, add some of the lavender oil to your bath, or even take it in a tea form.
Keep in mind that the following things must be taken care of before using the lavender herb for anxiety:
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor first before using it.
- If you have gone through any sort of surgery, consult your doctor before using it as it can lead to slow recovery.
- Using lavender can alter the hormonal system of young girls and boys, consult a doctor before giving it to them.
To stay on the safe side and still get all the benefits of lavender, I recommend using pillow sprays or room fresheners with lavender:
Bath & Body Works Aromatherapy Sleep Lavender Vanilla Pillow Mist
3. Chamomile
Chamomile is a very fine herb that looks similar to a daisy and has been used to treat stress, anxiety, stomach issues, fever, and other illnesses for centuries!
It has a relaxing effect and can reduce the tension that is a constant companion of anxiety.
You can drink chamomile tea, use topical chamomile creams, or take chamomile tablets – all of these are effective ways to soothe your anxiety naturally.
Chamomile can interact with certain drugs so, if you want to take this herb, I do recommend you consult your doctor first.
But generally, it is a very mild, gentle herb for anxiety and most people tolerate it really well.
Traditional Medicinals Organic Chamomile with Lavender Herbal Tea
4. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm or Melissa is traditionally known as the ‘gladdening herb’.
It has been used for centuries in western Europe and it’s known as the “herb that brightens your spirit”.
It is often used to reduce anxiety and induce a calming effect.
I loved using lemon balm when I had milder anxiety as it’s well enough for a simple soothing effect.
It tastes really nice as well – like a gentle version of mint tea (a teaspoon of honey makes it even better!).
Herb Pharm Certified Organic Lemon Balm Liquid Extract for Calming Nervous System Support
It is advised not to use it before any activity that requires alertness and concentration and I recommend using it on the weekend or on days when you are not supposed to do anything special.
As with any medicinal thingie you would like to use in your life, don’t forget to consult your doctor first before shifting to herbs for anxiety. It’s not like these are super strong or something – they’re mild and gentle, but everyone is different so it’s best to just stay safe.
You should also consult about the quality, brand, quantity, and strength of the herbs you are about to use.
When given an “OKAY!” by your doctor, enjoy the benefits of these soothing herbs for anxiety relief.
They have helped many people, and they might help you too!
Did you like this article?
Rate it below!
Also, do scroll down for more mental health and anxiety tips – there’s so much more to discover.
"We love to research problems, examine studies, analyze solutions, and present to you the best ideas that make life healthier. You can learn about our editorial standards here.
Have suggestions or feedback to share? Send us a message."