Natural Alternatives to Benzodiazepines
Deficiency has been linked to anxiety, depression, panic, memory loss, and other physical and psychiatric symptoms. Interestingly, prebiotic foods that encourage the growth of beneficial gut bacteria can also reduce anxiety. Traditionally, it has been used to treat anxiety, depression, and mental fatigue.
Xanax has been around a relatively few years, but doctors and patients swear to its value. All Supplement Critique content is medically reviewed or fact checked by a licensed medical doctor to ensure as much factual information as possible. Most of the REAL effects come from the juice that’s located in the center of the plant, which virtually no supplement contains. The reason behind this is because practically every kava supplement out there uses kava roots.
Physical Treatments for Anxiety and Insomnia
In addition, vitamin B12 and folate are needed for the expression of GABA receptors within the central nervous system. Deficiencies in these B vitamins can impair GABA-mediated neurotransmission, which can contribute to anxiety and other mood disorders. Vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in the production of GABA, which may explain why individuals with B vitamin deficiencies are at increased risk of anxiety, panic attacks, and insomnia. Another important consideration when taking psychopharmaceutical medications such as benzodiazepines is the potential for interactions with other drugs and substances.
- One study pitted kava against two popular anti-anxiety drugs (buspirone and opipramol) and found that kava worked as well as either of them.
- Fortunately, by using a couple of natural treatments and adopting a few new healthy habits, you may be able to help relieve symptoms and keep your anxiety under control — no pharmaceuticals required.
- It also has the potential for dependency, which prompts many to seek more natural solutions.
- Natural remedies for anxiety and stress have been employed for centuries across various cultures, each with its own set of plant-based remedies, relaxation techniques, and holistic philosophies.
- Yes, benzodiazepines are addictive and should be used cautiously and under medical supervision to avoid dependence and potential withdrawal complications.
- You may have read about the use of sleep deprivation as an “enhanced interrogation technique.” If nothing else, these reports reveal the disastrous physical and mental consequences of sleep deprivation.
Valerian
- Psychobiotics are probiotics that offer specific mental health benefits, including alleviating anxiety.
- A foundational principle of mental health and cognitive performance is to supply the body with the best nutrition possible.
- Participants who received l-theanine had lower baseline anxiety than those who took Xanax.
- The companionship of an emotional support animal (ESA) can provide incredible comfort and relief for those dealing with anxiety.
- There are various deep breathing techniques, such as the method (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8), box breathing, and paced respiration.
- The responsibility of caring for an animal can also provide structure and purpose, which can be beneficial for managing symptoms of anxiety.
- Meditation can also stimulate the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins, all of which play roles in the mitigation of anxiety (62).
If you’re looking for medical alternatives to Xanax, you might consider, beta blockers, antidepressants, or other anxiety medications like BusPar. Xanax works by binding to specific receptors in the brain that are sensitive to GABA and enhancing GABA’s effect on them. In other words, it boosts the power of that brake pedal, making it even more effective at calming down the activity of neurons. In your all natural xanax brain, there are communication centers called neurons that send messages to each other using chemicals called neurotransmitters. It helps calm down the activity of neurons, which can prevent feelings of anxiety. This indicates the potential for probiotics to alleviate symptoms of anxiety.
The Benefits of Natural Alternatives to Xanax
Exercise is a highly effective non-medical solution to preventing and treating anxiety. This is especially true for cardiovascular exercise, but don’t worry if you’re not a runner. You can reap the benefits of exercise for your mental health with just committing to a brisk walk a few days a week, a bike ride, or even a dance class (or a dance party in your living room). They are typically prescribed for short-term use or for specific anxiety-causing situations, such as a big meeting or performance. If you’re struggling with anxiety and are looking for natural alternatives to Xanax or prescription medications, try out these five options. We do, however, recommend that you seek professional help if your symptoms of anxiety do not improve or if they worsen.
Best mindfulness activity
The top two medical treatments for anxiety are anti-anxiety medication and psychotherapy. Natural alternatives to Xanax, a widely used anti-anxiety drug, are not only effective but avoid this medication’s serious side effects and addictiveness. In summary, natural alternatives offer a multifaceted approach to handling anxiety and stress. While many people love that caffeine makes them more alert and energetic, caffeine also exacerbates symptoms of anxiety, such as feelings of nervousness, restlessness, and increased heart rate (72).
Vitamins and Minerals
Unlike with Kratom, you generally have to take VERY large dose to get the anti-anxiety effects you’re looking for. Their Kava extract is without a doubt the most effective all natural alternative to lorazepam you’ll find in the market. When you drink alcohol or take a Xanax, GABA is released into the brain, making you feel less anxious.
Incorporate regular physical activity to boost endorphins and reduce stress. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, can enhance the effects of natural supplements and further stabilize your mood. Remember, this is a gradual process, and being patient with yourself is key.
Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants as they enhance the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. You can also try belly breathing to activate your vagus nerve or looking at a cherished photo to help set your mind at ease. You can check out these tips for beating anxiety in 1, 5, or 10 minutes for more ideas.
