10 Best Herbal Creams For Anxiety

Herbal creams for anxiety are topical products infused with natural herbs and essential oils that help alleviate anxiety symptoms.

They work by promoting relaxation and reducing stress through transdermal absorption, where the active ingredients are absorbed into the skin. Examples include creams containing lavender, chamomile, and passionflower, which have been shown to calm the mind and body.

By using these creams, individuals can experience reduced anxiety and improved sleep, leading to enhanced overall well-being and a better quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important creams for anxiety, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Passiflora incarnata

Passiflora incarnata, also known as maypop, creams helps with anxiety because of its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.

The active compounds in Passiflora incarnata, such as flavonoids and alkaloids, interact with the brain's GABA receptors, producing a calming effect. This natural herb has been used for centuries to alleviate anxiety and insomnia, and its topical application allows for direct absorption into the skin, providing rapid relief from anxiety symptoms.

As a result, many people turn to Passiflora incarnata creams as a natural and effective remedy for anxiety.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata creams that help with anxiety.

• Hernandezioside: A flavonoid glycoside that helps with anxiety by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, promoting a sense of calmness and relaxation.
• Hernandezin: A flavonoid that acts as a GABA receptor agonist, which helps to reduce anxiety by enhancing the activity of GABA (a neurotransmitter that inhibits neuronal excitability), leading to a calming effect.
• Isosaponin k: A triterpenoid saponin that has a sedative effect by reducing anxiety and stress, promoting relaxation, and improving sleep quality.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make creams for anxiety.

• Leaves: Leaves are commonly used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and alkaloids, which are believed to contribute to their anxiolytic properties.
• Stems: Stems of Passiflora incarnata are used in creams because they contain a higher concentration of passifloric acid, which may help alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Roots: Roots of Passiflora incarnata are used due to their rich content of flavonoids and alkaloids, which are thought to have a sedative effect and help reduce anxiety symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for anxiety.

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves in the early morning for optimal potency.
2. Dry the harvested flowers and leaves in a single layer at 95°f for 2-3 hours.
3. Create a 1:2 flower-to-fat ratio by combining 1 part dried flowers with 2 parts carrier oil such as coconut oil.
4. Steep the mixture in a double boiler for 2-3 hours, then strain the liquid through a cheesecloth.
5. Whip the cooled liquid into a smooth cream with a hand mixer until it reaches the desired consistency.

2. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with anxiety because of its calming and soothing properties.

The Lavender oil present in these creams has a profound impact on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. The sedative effects of Lavender oil help to calm the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Additionally, Lavender creams can help to improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with anxiety.

• Linalool: This terpene has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety by promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality.
• Linalyl acetate: As a terpene, linalyl acetate also contributes to the relaxing properties of lavender, reducing anxiety by promoting a sense of calmness and reducing stress.
• Lavandulol: This terpene has a sedative effect, helping to reduce anxiety by promoting relaxation, improving mood, and regulating sleep patterns.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for anxiety.

• Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their calming and soothing effects, which are attributed to the presence of linalool and linalyl acetate.
• Leaves: They are used to create a more subtle effect, providing a calming influence without the intense scent of the flowers, which can be beneficial for those who prefer a lighter experience.
• Buds: Buds are used to create a product that captures the essence of the plant as it transitions from the intense scent of the flowers to the calmer scent of the leaves, providing a unique and balanced effect.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for anxiety.

1. Harvest lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak bloom when their fragrance is most potent.
2. Dry the freshly harvested flowers in a single layer on paper towels for 7-10 days.
3. Infuse dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in 500ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2-3 weeks.
4. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids then mix with beeswax and coconut oil.
5. Blend the infused oil mixture with 200g of beeswax and 100g of coconut oil then heat until smooth.

3. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with anxiety because of its natural calming properties.

The active compounds in valerian root, such as valerenic acid and isovaleric acid, work to slow down brain activity and promote relaxation. This leads to a decrease in anxiety levels and an improvement in overall mood.

By applying valerian creams topically, the beneficial compounds are absorbed into the skin, providing a direct and soothing effect that can help alleviate anxiety symptoms and promote a sense of calm.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis creams that help with anxiety.

• Isovaleric acid: This organic compound helps with anxiety by inhibiting the activity of neurotransmitters associated with anxiety, such as GABA.
• Valerenic acid: A sesquiterpene derivative, valerenic acid helps with anxiety by modulating the activity of GABA receptors, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
• Valeranone: A valerane-type sesquiterpene, valeranone has anxiolytic properties, likely due to its ability to modulate the activity of GABA receptors, similar to valerenic acid.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make creams for anxiety.

• Roots: Valerian roots are the most commonly used part for making creams due to their high concentration of valerenic acids and other active compounds that promote relaxation.
• Barks: Valerian barks contain valeranone, a compound that has been shown to have anxiolytic properties, making them a popular choice for anxiety creams.
• (optional) stems: Valerian stems may also be used to some extent, but they generally contain lower concentrations of active compounds compared to roots and barks.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for anxiety.

1. Harvest 1/2 cup of dried valeriana officinalis root and clean it thoroughly to remove any debris.
2. Steep the valeriana root in 2 cups of boiling water for 10 minutes to extract its active compounds.
3. Strain the liquid and discard the solids then add 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil.
4. Heat the mixture in a double boiler for 10 minutes to melt the beeswax and blend the ingredients.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and thicken before transferring it to a glass jar for storage.

4. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with anxiety because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that promote blood flow to the brain and improve cognitive function.

These compounds may also have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. By enhancing oxygen delivery to brain cells, Ginkgo biloba creams may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.

This may be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing anxiety-related insomnia or restlessness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with anxiety.

• Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds help alleviate anxiety by modulating neurotransmitter activity, particularly serotonin and dopamine, which play crucial roles in mood regulation.
• Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone has anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and sedative effects, which may contribute to its calming and relaxing properties.
• Quercetin: A type of flavonoid, quercetin exhibits anti-anxiety effects by inhibiting the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for anxiety.

• Leaves: The leaves are primarily used due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body.
• Seeds: The seeds are used for their extract, which contains flavonoids and bilobalide, compounds thought to have a sedative and anxiolytic effect.
• Barks: The barks are used due to their content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to have a relaxing and calming effect on the mind and body.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for anxiety.

1. Weigh out 250 grams of shea butter and melt it in a double boiler for 10 minutes.
2. Mix in 50 grams of beeswax pellets and stir until fully incorporated after 5 minutes.
3. Combine 10 grams of dried ginkgo biloba leaves with 50 ml of olive oil in a small saucepan.
4. Heat the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes then strain it through a cheesecloth into a bowl.
5. Add the infused oil to the melted shea butter mixture and stir well then pour into molds.

5. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with anxiety because it contains the essential oils of rosmarinic acid and melissic acid, which have a calming effect on the mind and body.

The cream's active compounds help to reduce stress and promote relaxation by inhibiting the production of stress hormones like cortisol.

Additionally, Melissa officinalis creams have a soothing effect on the nervous system, which can lead to a reduction in anxiety symptoms, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with anxiety.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps with anxiety by inhibiting the production of stress hormones like cortisol and promoting relaxation.
• Lemon balm terpenes: These terpenes have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calmness.
• Volatile oil: A terpene that has a sedative and calming effect on the nervous system, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for anxiety.

• Leaves: Rich in essential oils, especially linalool and linalyl acetate, which contribute to the calming effects often sought in anxiety creams.
• Flowers: Known for their high concentration of essential oils, including linalool and linalyl acetate, that provide a soothing and calming effect for anxiety relief.
• Roots: Containing a range of bioactive compounds, the roots of Melissa officinalis may offer additional benefits in anxiety creams, such as anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for anxiety.

1. Harvest melissa officinalis leaves in the early morning or late afternoon when they are at their peak fragrance and potency.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a warm place with good air circulation for at least 24 hours.
3. Steep the dried melissa officinalis leaves in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
4. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the solids and discard the solids.
5. Mix the infused oil with a thickening agent such as beeswax and vitamin e oil to create a smooth and stable cream.

6. Tilia x europaea

Tilia x europaea, also known as lime, creams helps with anxiety because it contains flavonoids and terpenoids that have a calming effect on the mind and body.

The natural anti-inflammatory properties of the plant help to soothe and balance the nervous system, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. Additionally, the sedative properties of Tilia x europaea promote relaxation and calmness, making it an effective natural remedy for anxiety relief.

This can lead to improved sleep and overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia x europaea creams that help with anxiety.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, in Tilia x europaea help alleviate anxiety by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can reduce stress and promote relaxation.
• Terpenes: Terpenes, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, present in the herb, have a calming effect on the nervous system, contributing to a reduction in anxiety symptoms by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including chlorogenic acid, in Tilia x europaea may help regulate the body's stress response, thereby reducing anxiety by promoting a sense of calmness and well-being.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lime used to make creams for anxiety.

• Leaves: They are used due to their calming properties, which help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Buds: They are used due to their sedative properties, which can help to calm the mind and body.
• Flowers: They are used due to their soothing and calming effects, which can help to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of well-being.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lime for anxiety.

1. Harvest fresh tilia x europaea flowers at dawn when dew is still present on the petals.
2. Dry the flowers in a warm oven at 35 degrees celsius for 2 hours or in a dehydrator at 40 degrees celsius for 1 hour.
3. Infuse 100g of dried tilia x europaea flowers in 500ml of carrier oil such as coconut or sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean container discarding the solids.
5. Mix the infused oil with 100g of beeswax and 100g of shea butter in a double boiler at 60 degrees celsius until fully melted.

7. Humulus lupulus

Humulus lupulus, also known as hops, creams helps with anxiety because of its natural anxiolytic properties.

The herb contains flavonoids and bitter acids that have a calming effect on the mind and body. These compounds interact with the body's neurotransmitters, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.

By applying a hops cream topically, the active ingredients are absorbed through the skin, allowing for a localized and targeted approach to anxiety relief, providing a sense of calm and tranquility without the need for oral medication.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Humulus lupulus creams that help with anxiety.

• Isohumulones: These compounds, particularly alpha-acid and beta-acid, have a sedative effect on the nervous system, which helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Triterpenoids: The lupulin content in hops has been shown to have anxiolytic properties by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters, such as GABA, which helps to regulate the body's stress response.
• 8-prenylnaringenin: This prenylated flavonoid has been found to have a significant anxiolytic effect, likely due to its ability to bind to estrogen receptors and modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to a reduction in anxiety-related behaviors.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of hops used to make creams for anxiety.

• Flowers: Humulus lupulus flowers are used to make creams for anxiety due to their high content of essential oils, particularly humulone and lupulone, which have anxiolytic properties.
• Seeds: Humulus lupulus seeds are used to make creams for anxiety due to their ability to regulate the body's stress response and promote relaxation.
• Buds: Humulus lupulus buds are used to make creams for anxiety due to their high concentration of flavonoids, which have been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hops for anxiety.

1. Harvest 100g of dried humulus lupulus flowers in late summer or early fall when they are mature and fragrant.
2. Combine the dried flowers with 250ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil in a glass jar.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking the jar every few days.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
5. Whip 50g of beeswax with 50ml of the infused oil in a double boiler until it thickens into a smooth cream.

8. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with anxiety because it contains active compounds such as hyperforin and hypericin, which have a calming effect on the nervous system.

These compounds interact with neurotransmitters, reducing symptoms of anxiety and stress. The anti-inflammatory properties of St John's Wort also help to soothe and calm the mind and body, promoting relaxation and reducing feelings of overwhelm.

As a result, many people find relief from anxiety symptoms when using Hypericum perforatum creams.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with anxiety.

• Hyperforin: This potent phenolic compound has a sedative effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety by inhibiting the reuptake of neurotransmitters like serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps regulate mood and calmness.
• N-alkylamides: These compounds have anxiolytic properties and may interact with the body's GABA receptors, leading to a reduction in anxiety symptoms by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may contribute to its anxiolytic effects by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, promoting a sense of calmness and well-being.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for anxiety.

• Leaves: Hypericum perforatum leaves are the most commonly used part for making creams due to their high concentration of hypericin and hyperforin, which are responsible for its anxiolytic and antidepressant properties.
• Flowers: Hypericum perforatum flowers are used for their flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to their calming and relaxing effects, making them suitable for anxiety relief creams.
• Stems: Hypericum perforatum stems are utilized for their ability to provide a sustained release of hyperforin, a key compound in the plant that helps alleviate anxiety symptoms when used in creams.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for anxiety.

1. Harvest 250 grams of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves at peak potency during full sun exposure.
2. Dry the harvested herbs in a single layer at 50 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
3. Combine 250 grams of dried herbs with 500 milliliters of jojoba oil in a 1000 milliliter glass jar.
4. Infuse the mixture in a double boiler at 40 degrees celsius for 4 hours while stirring occasionally.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and bottle the resulting cream in a dark glass container.

9. Bacopa monnieri

Bacopa monnieri, also known as brahmi, creams helps with anxiety because of its ability to enhance cognitive function and promote relaxation.

The herb contains compounds that support the brain's GABA receptors, which help regulate mood and reduce feelings of anxiety. Additionally, brahmi creams may improve memory and focus, allowing individuals to better cope with stressful situations.

By promoting a sense of calm and clarity, these creams can be a valuable tool in managing anxiety and promoting overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Bacopa monnieri creams that help with anxiety.

• Bacosides: These triterpenoid saponins help with anxiety by enhancing the growth and survival of neurons, improving memory and cognitive function, which in turn reduces anxiety-related symptoms.
• Phenylethanoid glycosides: These compounds have a neuroprotective effect, which helps to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, contributing to a decrease in anxiety levels.
• Saponins: These compounds have a sedative and anxiolytic effect, helping to calm the mind and body, and reducing anxiety-related symptoms such as restlessness and irritability.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of brahmi used to make creams for anxiety.

• Leaves: The leaves of Bacopa monnieri are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, such as bacosides, which contribute to its anxiolytic effects.
• Roots: The roots are also widely used due to their rich content of bacosides and other compounds that help in reducing anxiety.
• Stems: The stems of Bacopa monnieri are used as an alternative to leaves and roots, as they contain lower but still significant amounts of bacosides, which can help alleviate anxiety symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic brahmi for anxiety.

1. Extract the dried bacopa monnieri leaves using a solvent like ethanol or glycerin at a ratio of 1:2.
2. Filter the extracted liquid to remove impurities and obtain a clear solution within 30 minutes.
3. Mix the filtered extract with a base oil such as coconut or sweet almond oil at a ratio of 10%.
4. Add a preservative like potassium sorbate and a thickening agent like beeswax to the mixture at a ratio of 1%.
5. Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool and solidify for 30 minutes before use.

10. Citrus x aurantium

Citrus x aurantium, also known as bitter orange, creams helps with anxiety because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds.

The high concentrations of synephrine, a natural stimulant, and other flavonoids in Citrus x aurantium creams can help increase alertness and focus, while also promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.

The calming effects of the cream can help regulate the nervous system, leading to a sense of calm and tranquility, providing relief from anxiety and promoting a better overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Citrus x aurantium creams that help with anxiety.

• Synephrine: This alkaloid compound has a stimulatory effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety by increasing alertness and energy.
• Naringenin: A flavonoid compound, naringenin has been shown to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and antidepressant properties, possibly due to its ability to interact with neurotransmitter receptors in the brain.
• Limonene: A terpene found in the essential oils of Citrus x aurantium, limonene has been reported to have a calming effect and may help reduce anxiety by modulating the body's stress response.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of bitter orange used to make creams for anxiety.

• Flowers: Utilized in creams for their sedative and antispasmodic properties, which can help to alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Seeds: Used in creams for their sedative and anxiolytic properties, which can help to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bitter orange for anxiety.

1. Infuse the citrus peel in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at a 1:5 ratio for 2 weeks.
2. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain a clear liquid.
3. Combine the citrus infused oil with beeswax at a 1:1 ratio and heat until melted.
4. Whip the cooled mixture with a hand mixer until it reaches a light and fluffy consistency.
5. Add a preservative such as potassium sorbate at a 0.5% concentration and mix well.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for anxiety?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with anxiety is a blend of lavender, chamomile, and ashwagandha.

Lavender oil promotes relaxation and calms the mind, while chamomile soothes the nervous system and reduces stress. Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, helps the body adapt to stress and promotes balance.

Applying a cream with these three herbs can have a synergistic effect, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calm. This combination can be applied to the wrists, temples, or behind the ears for optimal benefits.

Regular use can lead to long-term relief.

What ailments similar to anxiety are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to anxiety/creams.html">anxiety/creams.html">anxiety that are treated with herbal creams are stress, insomnia, and restlessness.

Herbal creams containing ingredients like chamomile, lavender, and valerian root have been used to promote relaxation, calmness, and improve sleep quality.

These natural remedies can help soothe nervous tension, reduce irritability, and promote a sense of well-being, making them an effective alternative or supplement to traditional anxiety treatments.