By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Anxiety
Herbal capsules for anxiety are natural supplements made from a combination of herbs, roots, and flowers that have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of anxiety.
These capsules work by promoting relaxation, reducing stress levels, and calming the mind and body. Examples of herbal capsules that help with anxiety include passionflower, lavender, and valerian root. By taking these capsules, individuals can experience reduced anxiety symptoms, improved sleep quality, and enhanced overall well-being.
For instance, a person suffering from anxiety may find it easier to fall asleep after taking these supplements, leading to a better quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for anxiety, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Valeriana officinalis
- 2. Passiflora incarnata
- 3. Piper methysticum
- 4. Lavandula angustifolia
- 5. Bacopa monnieri
- 6. Ginkgo biloba
- 7. Withania somnifera
- 8. Melissa officinalis
- 9. Matricaria chamomilla
- 10. Scutellaria lateriflora
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for anxiety?
- What ailments similar to anxiety are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Valeriana officinalis
Valerian capsules helps with anxiety because they contain a natural ingredient that has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
The root of the valerian plant contains a number of compounds that have been shown to interact with the brain's neurotransmitters, helping to calm the mind and body.
By taking valerian capsules regularly, individuals can experience a reduction in anxiety symptoms such as racing thoughts, rapid heartbeat, and muscle tension, allowing them to feel more balanced and centered.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis capsules that help with anxiety.
- Valerenic acid: A sesquiterpene that helps with anxiety by binding to GABA receptors and enhancing the sedative effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter that calms the nervous system.
- Valeranone: A sesquiterpene that helps with anxiety by interacting with GABA receptors and serotonin receptors, which can help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Isovaleric acid: A short-chain fatty acid that helps with anxiety by acting as a GABA receptor agonist, which can help calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make capsules for anxiety.
- Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis are rich in valerenic acid, which is responsible for its anxiolytic and sedative properties.
- Roots: The roots also contain valeranone, a compound that has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system.
- Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis contain a high concentration of valerenic acid, which has been traditionally used to treat anxiety and insomnia.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for anxiety.
- Harvest 100g of valeriana officinalis roots in the fall season when the plant is mature and dry.
- Dry the harvested roots in a warm place with air circulation for 7 days to reduce moisture content.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces and grind them into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 1:1 ratio of the ground valeriana officinalis powder with cellulose powder to create a filling material.
- Fill empty vegetable capsules with 500mg of the filling material and seal them securely using a capsule machine.
2. Passiflora incarnata
Maypop capsules helps with anxiety because they contain Passiflora incarnata, a natural herb that has been used for centuries to calm the mind and body.
The plant's active compounds, including flavonoids and alkaloids, work synergistically to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. By regulating neurotransmitters such as GABA and serotonin, maypop capsules can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, including feelings of unease, nervousness, and restlessness.
As a natural anxiolytic, maypop capsules offer a safe and effective way to manage anxiety without the risks associated with pharmaceutical medications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata capsules that help with anxiety.
- Isovitexin: This flavonoid helps with anxiety by acting as a GABA receptor agonist, which enhances the activity of neurotransmitters that promote relaxation and reduce stress.
- Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds help with anxiety by inhibiting the breakdown of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps regulate the body's response to stress.
- Harmane: This alkaloid helps with anxiety by acting as an anxiolytic and sedative agent, which helps reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make capsules for anxiety.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that help reduce anxiety.
- Roots: The roots of Passiflora incarnata contain a higher concentration of certain alkaloids, such as passiflorine, which have sedative properties that help alleviate anxiety.
- Fruits: The fruits of the plant, specifically the pulp and juice, are also used due to their high content of flavonoids and other antioxidants that can help soothe anxiety.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for anxiety.
- Harvest passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves in late summer or early fall when they are fully ripe.
- Dry the harvested flowers and leaves in a single layer at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 30 minutes.
- Grind the dried passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder.
- Mix the powder with a binding agent such as gelatin or starch in a 1:1 ratio by weight.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the powder mixture using a capsule filler machine at a rate of 20 capsules per minute.
3. Piper methysticum
Kava capsules helps with anxiety because they contain a natural sedative that has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
The active compounds in kava, such as kavapyrones, interact with the brain's neurotransmitters to calm the mind and body, alleviating symptoms of anxiety like restlessness, fatigue, and irritability.
By promoting a sense of tranquility and reducing worry, herbal kava capsules can help individuals better cope with everyday pressures and find a deeper sense of calm and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum capsules that help with anxiety.
- Kavain: Kavain, a lactone compound, has been shown to have anxiolytic effects by interacting with GABA receptors in the brain, thereby reducing anxiety and stress levels.
- Dihydrokavain: Dihydrokavain, another lactone compound, has been found to have a similar mechanism of action to kavain, modulating GABA receptors and alleviating anxiety symptoms.
- Yonggin: Yonggin, a phenolic compound, has been reported to have a sedative effect and can help reduce anxiety by modulating neurotransmitters such as serotonin and GABA in the brain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make capsules for anxiety.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used due to their high concentration of kavalactones, which are the primary bioactive compounds responsible for the anxiolytic effects of Piper methysticum.
- Leaves: Leaves are used because they also contain kavalactones, although in smaller quantities compared to rhyzomes, and are often used as a more sustainable and accessible alternative.
- (optional, depending on the source) roots: Roots are sometimes used, but the evidence is less consistent, and their kavalactone content may be lower compared to rhyzomes and leaves.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kava for anxiety.
- Harvest 500g of dried piper methysticum roots from a reliable source.
- Dry the harvested roots in a low-temperature oven at 35°c for 2 hours.
- Grind 200g of dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix the ground powder with 100g of gelatin and 100g of water to form a gel-like mixture.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with 500mg of the mixture and seal immediately.
4. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender capsules helps with anxiety because they contain the calming properties of lavender, a natural herb that has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
The capsules work by interacting with the brain's neurotransmitters, such as GABA, to slow down racing thoughts and calm the nervous system. This can lead to a sense of peacefulness and tranquility, helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and improve overall mood.
Additionally, lavender's sedative properties can promote better sleep quality, further reducing anxiety levels.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia capsules that help with anxiety.
- Linalool: A terpene that helps with anxiety by promoting relaxation, reducing stress levels, and calming the nervous system.
- Linalyl acetate: A terpene that aids in reducing anxiety by exerting a sedative effect, promoting a peaceful state, and relieving tension.
- Apigenin: A phenolic compound that helps alleviate anxiety by interacting with GABA receptors in the brain, thereby reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make capsules for anxiety.
- Flowers: Used to make capsules for anxiety due to their high concentration of linalool and linalyl acetate, which have a calming effect on the nervous system.
- Leaves: Used to make capsules for anxiety due to their similar composition to flowers, containing linalool and linalyl acetate that help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Stems: Used to make capsules for anxiety, although to a lesser extent than flowers and leaves, as they may contain some of the same calming compounds, although in smaller quantities.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for anxiety.
- Gather dried lavandula angustifolia flowers 50g for future use in capsule preparation.
- Grind the dried flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix 500mg of the powder with 500mg of gelatin and 250mg of water to create a paste.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the paste and seal them immediately to avoid drying.
- Label and store the capsules in a cool dark place for up to 12 months.
5. Bacopa monnieri
Brahmi capsules helps with anxiety because they contain Bacopa monnieri, a natural herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries.
This herb is known to improve memory, cognitive function, and mental clarity by increasing the transmission of nerve impulses. Brahmi also has a calming effect on the mind, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety by regulating the body's response to cortisol.
Regular consumption of Brahmi capsules can promote relaxation, calmness, and improved mood, making it an effective natural remedy for managing anxiety.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Bacopa monnieri capsules that help with anxiety.
- Bacosides: Bacosides are a group of triterpene glycosides that have been shown to have anxiolytic properties by reducing stress and anxiety by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
- Bacopa saponins: Bacopa saponins, particularly bacopaside I and bacopaside II, have been found to have anti-anxiety effects by regulating the expression of genes involved in stress response and reducing oxidative stress.
- Apigenin: Apigenin is a flavonoid that has been identified in Bacopa monnieri and has been shown to possess anxiolytic properties by interacting with the GABA receptor and modulating the activity of neurotransmitters involved in anxiety regulation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of brahmi used to make capsules for anxiety.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of bacopasides, which are responsible for the herb's cognitive-enhancing and anxiolytic properties.
- Stems: The stems are another preferred part, as they contain a similar profile of bacopasides as the leaves, although in slightly lower concentrations.
- Roots: The roots of Bacopa monnieri are also used, particularly for their potential adaptogenic and stress-relieving properties, although they may be less potent than the leaves and stems.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic brahmi for anxiety.
- Harvest 30 grams of dried bacopa monnieri roots and leaves at the end of the monsoon season.
- Dry the harvested material in a low-temperature oven at 50°c for 2 hours to remove moisture.
- Grind the dried bacopa monnieri into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder for 30 seconds.
- Mix 1 gram of bacopa monnieri powder with 2 grams of gelatin and 1 gram of water to form a mixture.
- Fill 10 empty gelatin capsules with 0.5 grams of the bacopa monnieri mixture each.
6. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree capsules helps with anxiety because they contain a unique blend of bioactive compounds that promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.
The capsules' proprietary formula works to calm the mind and body, alleviating feelings of restlessness and agitation.
By supporting adrenal function and regulating cortisol production, maidenhair tree capsules help individuals better cope with anxious thoughts and emotions, leading to an overall sense of calm and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba capsules that help with anxiety.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids help reduce anxiety by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain associated with anxiety disorders.
- Bilobalide: Bilobalide helps reduce anxiety by promoting GABA (inhibitory neurotransmitter) activity, which can calm the nervous system and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.
- Quercetin: Quercetin helps reduce anxiety by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reducing oxidative stress, which can contribute to anxiety and stress-related disorders.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make capsules for anxiety.
- Leaves: The leaves of the Ginkgo biloba plant are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to contribute to its anxiety-relieving properties.
- Seeds: The seeds of the Ginkgo biloba plant are also used, as they contain a higher concentration of flavonoids than the leaves, which may provide additional benefits for anxiety relief.
- (optional) leaves: Some sources also mention the leaves as a primary source for Ginkgo biloba capsules, possibly due to the ease of extraction and processing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for anxiety.
- Grind 10 grams of ginkgo biloba leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
- Mix the ginkgo biloba powder with 20 grams of cellulose and 5 grams of magnesium stearate in a bowl.
- Add 2 grams of silicon dioxide to the mixture and stir well for 2 minutes.
- Use a capsule machine to fill 100 capsules with 250 milligrams each of the powder mixture.
- Label and store the herbal ginkgo biloba capsules in an airtight container at room temperature.
7. Withania somnifera
Ashwagandha capsules helps with anxiety because it contains a unique combination of herbs that work synergistically to calm the mind and body.
The capsules contain adaptogenic properties that help the body adapt to stress, reducing feelings of overwhelm and unease. Additionally, ashwagandha has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, which is often elevated in individuals experiencing anxiety.
By promoting relaxation and reducing stress hormones, ashwagandha capsules can provide a sense of calm and tranquility, helping individuals to better manage their anxiety and live a more balanced life.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera capsules that help with anxiety.
- Withanolides: Withanolides, a type of alkaloid, have been shown to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects by modulating the brain's GABA receptors, which helps to regulate stress and anxiety responses.
- Withaferin a: Withaferin A, a specific withanolide, has been found to reduce anxiety-like behavior in animal models by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reducing oxidative stress in the brain.
- Ashwagandhans a and b glycosides: These glycosides, a type of saponin, have been reported to have anxiolytic effects by modulating the brain's serotonin and GABA systems, which helps to regulate mood and reduce anxiety.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make capsules for anxiety.
- Roots: They are the primary source of bioactive compounds like withanolides, which contribute to the herb's anxiolytic properties.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other compounds that help in reducing anxiety and stress.
- Seeds: They contain alkaloids and other bioactive compounds that have been traditionally used to manage stress and anxiety.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for anxiety.
- Measure out 250 grams of withania somnifera root powder with a digital scale for accurate dosing.
- Mix the withania somnifera root powder with 50 grams of filler powder in a large bowl.
- Add 5 grams of silica as a capsule filler and mix well with a spoon for 2 minutes.
- Fill a capsule machine with the powder mixture and set the machine to produce 100 capsules per filling.
- Store the finished capsules in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 years.
8. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm capsules helps with anxiety because it contains rosmarinic acid, a natural compound that has a calming effect on the nervous system.
This herb has been traditionally used to alleviate stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and reducing feelings of unease. The capsules also contain apigenin, which binds to GABA receptors in the brain, helping to regulate neurotransmitters and calm the mind.
As a result, lemon balm capsules can provide quick relief from anxiety symptoms, leaving you feeling more balanced and composed.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis capsules that help with anxiety.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has a calming effect on the nervous system and helps to reduce anxiety by inhibiting the activity of stress-induced neurotransmitters.
- Geranial: As a monoterpene, geranial has a sedative and calming effect on the body, which helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Linalool: This terpene has a sedative and calming effect, reducing anxiety by promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make capsules for anxiety.
- Leaves: The leaves of Melissa officinalis are commonly used due to their high concentration of rosmarinic acid, a compound with anxiolytic and adaptogenic properties.
- Stems: The stems of Melissa officinalis contain a high amount of essential oils, which contribute to their anxiolytic and calming effects.
- Flowers: The flowers of Melissa officinalis are often used due to their high rosmarinic acid content and their ability to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for anxiety.
- Harvest 1 cup of melissa officinalis leaves at the peak of their potency when they are in full bloom.
- Dry the leaves in a low-temperature oven at 105°f for 2 hours to prevent degradation.
- Weigh out 1 gram of dried melissa officinalis leaves and grind them into a fine powder.
- Mix 1 gram of the powdered melissa officinalis leaves with 5 grams of a natural capsule filler material.
- Fill empty vegetable capsules with the mixture and seal them to preserve the herbal properties.
9. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile capsules helps with anxiety because of its natural calming properties that promote relaxation and reduce feelings of stress and tension.
The herbal extract has a soothing effect on the mind and body, allowing individuals to unwind and calm their minds. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce inflammation in the brain, which can contribute to feelings of anxiety and restlessness.
By incorporating chamomile capsules into one's daily routine, individuals can experience a sense of tranquility and peace, making it easier to manage anxiety and promote overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla capsules that help with anxiety.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid helps with anxiety by binding to GABA receptors, enhancing the calming effects of the neurotransmitter GABA.
- Luteolin: As a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, luteolin helps reduce anxiety by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines that contribute to anxiety disorders.
- Alpha-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene lactone acts as a GABA receptor agonist, which helps calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety by promoting relaxation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make capsules for anxiety.
- Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part of Matricaria chamomilla to make capsules for anxiety due to their high content of apigenin and luteolin, which have a calming effect on the nervous system.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used to make capsules for anxiety, as they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that have anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Seeds: The seeds of Matricaria chamomilla are used to make capsules for anxiety due to their high content of sesquiterpenes, which have a sedative effect and can help reduce anxiety and stress.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for anxiety.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers at the peak of their potency and store in a cool dry place.
- Grind the dried flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle within 5 minutes.
- Mix the powdered matricaria chamomilla with a binding agent such as gelatin at a 1:1 ratio within 2 minutes.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the herbal powder using a small spoon or capsule filler within 5 minutes.
- Store the herbal capsules in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 years.
10. Scutellaria lateriflora
Skullcap capsules helps with anxiety because of its natural ability to calm the mind and body.
The herb contains a unique compound called baicalin, which has been shown to have a sedative effect on the nervous system, reducing feelings of stress and panic. Additionally, skullcap's antioxidant properties help to soothe and balance the brain's chemistry, leading to improved mood regulation and reduced anxiety symptoms.
As a result, taking skullcap capsules can provide a sense of calm and tranquility, allowing individuals to better cope with anxious thoughts and emotions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Scutellaria lateriflora capsules that help with anxiety.
- Baicalein: This flavonoid helps with anxiety by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters such as GABA and glutamate in the brain, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
- Baicalin: A flavonoid glycoside, Baicalin has anti-anxiety effects by inhibiting the activity of inflammatory enzymes and reducing oxidative stress, which contribute to anxiety symptoms.
- Scutellarin: A flavone glycoside, Scutellarin has been shown to have anxiolytic effects by blocking the activity of certain neurotransmitters that are involved in anxiety, such as serotonin and dopamine.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of skullcap used to make capsules for anxiety.
- Roots: The roots of Scutellaria lateriflora are commonly used because they contain a high concentration of bioactive compounds that contribute to its anxiolytic effects.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make capsules for anxiety due to their ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.
- Flowers: The flowers of Scutellaria lateriflora are often utilized in anxiety relief formulations because they possess a soothing effect on the nervous system.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic skullcap for anxiety.
- Weigh 1 gram of dried scutellaria lateriflora flowers and transfer it to a clean glass container for storage.
- Combine 1 gram of scutellaria lateriflora flowers with 100 ml of 95% ethanol in a dark-tinted glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 2 hours at room temperature to allow for efficient extraction of the plant's bioactive compounds.
- Strain the liquid mixture using a coffee filter or a piece of cheesecloth to separate the plant material from the solvent.
- Use a rotary evaporator to reduce the ethanol solution to a thick liquid concentrate within 30 minutes.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for anxiety?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with anxiety is a blend of Ashwagandha, Passionflower, and Valerian root.
Ashwagandha is known for its adaptogenic properties, helping to regulate stress hormones. Passionflower calms the mind and reduces anxiety symptoms.
Valerian root promotes relaxation and improves sleep quality. Taking these herbal capsules together can provide a synergistic effect, effectively reducing anxiety and promoting overall well-being.
This combination is often recommended by herbalists and health professionals to alleviate anxiety and promote a peaceful state of mind.
What ailments similar to anxiety are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to anxiety/capsules.html">anxiety/capsules.html">anxiety that are treated with herbal capsules are depression, insomnia, stress, and restlessness.
Herbs like Ashwagandha, Valerian root, and Passionflower have been traditionally used to calm the mind and body. Kava and St. John's Wort are also commonly used to alleviate symptoms of mild depression and anxiety. These herbs work by reducing cortisol levels, promoting relaxation, and regulating mood swings.
They can be consumed in capsule or tea form, providing a natural alternative to conventional treatments.