Wednesday Wellness Tool: Herbs for Anxiety

Something I've noticed across the years, both with long-term clients and within myself, is that once Spring arrives and daylight is more plentiful, we tend to get a surge of energy.

While this sounds like something to celebrate, it unfortunately doesn't always feel like an exciting burst, but instead shows up as anxiety or agitation. 

It's a gift to tune in to these patterns within ourselves (it's less off-putting when it's predictable!), but in the mean time here are a couple tried and true, common herbs that can help alleviate your anxious symptoms.* 

1. Kava is an herb native to the South Pacific. There is evidence that it is effective in the treatment of generalized anxiety and may be good for sleep issues as well. Read a good summary of its history, benefits, warnings, dosage information and more here. You can take Kava in the forms of tinctures, teas, capsules, or whole root.
2. Valerian Root is native to Europe, and while historically it's been used as an anxiety remedy, it is better know for it's ability to assist with sleep. Click here for the details. Valerian is available in tinctures, teas, liquid and powdered extracts (non-medical warning: it smells a bit funky)

*Always check with your doctor before adding herbs to your life! These herbs in particular should not be used if you have liver issues. Also, here are some very knowledgable local herb resources: Scarlet Sage Herb Company, The San Francisco Botanical Medicine Clinic and Information Center. 

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