Remedies for anxiety
We’ve all been living through challenging times and we know that many people’s mental health has suffered as a result of the Covid pandemic and lockdowns. Homeopathic remedies can help bring relief during periods of stress and anxiety.
Feeling anxious can be a healthy and helpful response in some situations. After all, it's a natural part of our fight and flight mechanism, which helps us survive in stressful and dangerous situations.
When we’re exposed to a threat, our adrenal glands release hormones to help us cope with whatever it is we’re up against. Cortisol increases glucose levels in our blood stream to send a boost of energy to our vital organs. At the same time, it slows down other bodily functions that aren’t as critical in a fight or flight situation. Adrenaline is also released which quickens the pulse, raises blood pressure and accelerates our breathing. All this helps deliver oxygen to where it is needed the most, improving our chances of fighting off, or running away from, the danger.
But when we aren’t fleeing from an imminent danger, a state of anxiety can become too intense or prolonged, sometimes having a detrimental impact on our health and well-being. Symptoms of anxiety vary amongst individuals, but commonly include feeling nervous and tense, trembling, rapid breathing, nausea and palpitations. In more extreme cases, there can be chest pains, feelings of panic and even a fear of death.
Conventional treatment for chronic anxiety usually involves a psychological therapy such as counselling or CBT which can help people to process their experiences and find ways to minimise and deal with their stress. In some instances, medication may also be prescribed, but this can come with unwanted side effects or concerns about drug dependency.
Homeopathy has been used successfully for many years to help people manage anxiety and other mental health issues. In fact, a study carried out by a Professor of Psychiatry at Duke University, found that 60 per cent of patients responded favourably to homeopathic remedies when treated for major depression, social phobia or panic disorder1. Here are some key remedies for helping with anxiety:
Aconite
This is the number one remedy for panic attacks and can help when there are sudden feelings of fear and terror. There may even be a fear of death, which could be triggered by a shock or a traumatic experience. Consider Aconite when there are palpitations, shortness of breath and a flushed face. The person needing this remedy is likely to be restless and usually feel worse in crowds and from the cold. Symptoms tend to be worse after midnight, in the early hours.
Argentum Nit
This can be a helpful remedy for apprehension and anxiety in the lead up to any big event. Someone who needs Argentum Nit is likely to be hurried and impulsive, with a strong desire to perform well which can lead to a fear of failure. They tend to be warm blooded and crave fresh air. Physically, they may experience diarrhoea or excess wind, brought on by the dread of the upcoming event.
Arsenicum
Consider this remedy when there is anxiety accompanied by feeling chilly and restless. Someone who could benefit from Arsenicum may be exhausted, but can't rest as they are so fidgety and struggle to relax. This remedy suits people who are concerned about order and security - they like to feel in control of everything and will try to manage their anxiety by being meticulously organised. This remedy may also help those who worry about health issues and feel scared of getting ill. They will feel better in company and from lots of reassurance.
Gelsemium
A key remedy for anxiety and apprehension, Gelsemium could help those who are feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope. The anxiety is often accompanied by a feeling of weakness, trembling and even dizziness. In extreme cases, the person might become almost paralysed with fear, incapable of doing anything and unable to think straight. They will feel better from rest and fresh air.
Phosphorous
The Phosphorous type tends to be sensitive, affectionate and warm. They are sympathetic and considerate, but their vivid imaginations can lead to worry about the slightest thing - the dark, their health, being left alone. In health they are bubbly and vibrant, making friends easily. But when out of balance, they can appear flat and indifferent to life. They feel better from conversation and company and will be easily reassured (unlike the Arsenicum type).
Pulsatilla
Pulsatilla can be useful for those who have a tendency to feel insecure and who need lots of reassurance. They feel easily abandoned, may cry a lot and will cling to someone close for extra support. This remedy can be useful when anxiety flares up during times of hormonal change, such as during puberty, menstruation and with the menopause. The Pulsatilla type will feel better from company, fresh air and sympathy.
For an individualised prescription and best results, please consult a professional homeopath. Find a practitioner near you at: findahomeopath.org
Photo by John Noonan on Unsplash
1. Davidson J, Gaylord S. Meeting of minds in psychiatry and homeopathy: an example in social phobia. Altern Ther Health Med. 1995 Jul;1(3):36-43. PMID: 9359795.
Tags: Anxiety | Mental Health
This entry was posted on 25 June 2021 at 12:50 and is filed under Homeopathy | Alternative Medicine | Health | Remedies | Mental health.