We all have periods of
anxiety in our lives, but the duration and intensity can differ greatly between
individuals. The feelings of anxiety can range in intensity from feelings of
uneasiness - producing trembling and sweaty hands - to bouts of diarrhoea,
heart palpitations and full-blown panic attacks. Anxiety can cause complete,
albeit temporary, memory blocks or even cause entirely inappropriate behaviour.
Whatever the cause of anxiety, the result
is not always debilitating. In fact, anxiety can be a useful coping mechanism.
The apprehension of a deadline can improve one’s performance. If anxiousness
causes us to work through unresolved problems, the results are highly
rewarding. Redefining who we are and what we want reinforces a sense of
ourselves and also provides confidence. On the other hand, if the source of the
problem cannot be resolved, symptoms may intensify and be longer-lasting.
Depending on the individual, various types of problem may occur. Some typical
ones are headaches, digestive upsets, impotence, insomnia and an inability to
relax.
Physically, anxiety occurs when an
overload of stress on the nervous system throws it off balance. As a result,
the autonomic nervous system becomes over-stimulated, causing symptoms of anxiety.
Anxiety is most often a temporary problem caused by periods of extreme
emotional stress. It is often directly linked to our ability to cope with
stress in our environment, but definite factors trigger and aggravate anxiety.
All substances that induce wakefulness, including the caffeine in coffee and in
colas, act upon the nervous system to put the nerves on edge. Smoking to relax
is a psychological fallacy, as nicotine increases rather than decreases stress.
An overload of toxins or toxic metals in the body can attack the nervous system
and cause anxiety. Hangovers and withdrawal from alcohol produce nervousness
and tremors. Furthermore, anxiety is linked to an increased production of
lactate in the body, which both alcohol and caffeine cause.
Sleep helps maintain a balance with stress. So
lack of sleep can cause and aggravate nervous tension.
Refined, white flour and sugar products
and processed food essentially starve the body of B vitamins as the body’s own
vitamin reserves must digest these fuel foods which have been stripped of many
important nutrients. This process weakens the body and promotes feelings of
anxiety.
The B vitamins lend the nervous system
excellent support, as do calcium and magnesium. These minerals relax a tense and
overwrought nervous system. Take them before bed to improve sleep.
Many herbal remedies are useful for easing
anxiety and strengthening the nervous system. To ease severe anxiety and
insomnia, take Valerian Tincture, which will calm but not sedate. Passionflower
is another herb with a gentle relaxing quality. Camomile has the ability to
relax the mind and digestive system for individuals with digestive upsets
coupled with anxiety. Lavender Essential Oil is wonderful smelling oil which
has a very soothing effect on fragile nerves. Put 2-3 drops in a bath before
bed to ease oneself into a relaxing sleep. To strengthen the body and give a
boost to energy levels while lifting the spirits, take Ginseng and Flower (Bee)
Pollen every day for a couple of months.
Exercise outdoors if possible; walking and
swimming are some of the best antidotes for anxiety and tension.
David Foley
MNIMH, MRCHM
Medical Herbalist
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