Updated: Nov 30, 2024
11 Herbal Tinctures For Anxiety
Herbal tinctures for anxiety have become a popular natural remedy for managing stress and promoting relaxation.
These plant-based extracts are often used in place of prescription medications, which can have harsh side effects. The key to their effectiveness lies in the unique properties of certain herbs, such as Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian root, Passiflora incarnata, or passionflower, and Lavandula angustifolia, also known as lavender. Valerian root, for instance, is renowned for its ability to calm the nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting a restful night's sleep. Its sedative properties have been shown to help regulate the body's internal clock and increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps to reduce stress and improve mood.
Passionflower, on the other hand, is known for its anxiolytic properties, which help to alleviate feelings of anxiety and panic. It works by interacting with the body's GABA receptors, which are responsible for regulating the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. Lavender, with its soothing and calming scent, is often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. When consumed as a tincture, lavender is thought to have a similar effect, helping to calm the mind and body. The combination of these herbs can be particularly effective, as they work together to create a synergistic effect that can help to alleviate anxiety and promote a sense of well-being.
By incorporating herbal tinctures into your daily routine, you can experience a range of benefits, including improved sleep, reduced stress levels, and increased feelings of calm and relaxation.
This article explains in detail what are the best herbal teas for anxiety and wh.
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Table of Contents
1. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis tinctures contains valerenic acid, isovaleric acid, and valepotriates, which are its main bioactive constituents.
These compounds interact with neurotransmitters in the brain, such as GABA, serotonin, and dopamine, to produce a calming effect. The valepotriates, in particular, have a sedative effect by slowing down the activity of nerve cells in the brain, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. The valerenic acid also has a sedative and anxiolytic effect by inhibiting the activity of enzymes that break down GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps to calm the nervous system.
By interacting with these neurotransmitters and enzymes, Valeriana officinalis tinctures can help to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried Valeriana officinalis roots.
- Combine the roots with 2 cups of 80% vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and shake it well for 2-3 minutes to mix the roots and vodka.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking it every day.
- Strain the liquid and discard the roots. Transfer the liquid to small glass bottles and store them in a cool, dark place.
2. Passiflora incarnata
Passiflora incarnata tinctures contains flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides as its bioactive constituents.
These compounds have sedative and anxiolytic properties that can help reduce anxiety by regulating the nervous system and promoting relaxation. The flavonoids in Passiflora incarnata, such as vitexin and isovitexin, have been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate anxiety symptoms. The alkaloids, including harmine and harmaline, also contribute to the anxiolytic effects of the tincture by interacting with neurotransmitters in the brain.
By regulating the levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters, Passiflora incarnata tinctures can help promote a sense of calm and well-being.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Passiflora incarnata flowers and 2 cups of 80% vodka or 100-proof vodka.
- Combine the dried flowers and vodka in a clean glass jar. Stir well and seal the jar.
- Place the jar in a cool, dark place and let it sit for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool, dark place and use 20-30 drops as needed to help manage anxiety.
3. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia tinctures contains linalool and linalyl acetate, two active constituents with calming properties.
These compounds interact with the brain's GABA receptors, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Linalool also has a sedative effect, helping to slow down an overactive nervous system, while linalyl acetate has a stabilizing influence on the mind and body. By balancing the body's response to stress, these constituents can help alleviate anxiety symptoms.
Regular use of Lavandula angustifolia tinctures may lead to a decrease in anxiety levels.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh Lavandula angustifolia flowers and 2 cups of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Combine the flowers and vodka in the jar. Stir gently to coat the flowers.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
- Store the tincture in the fridge. Use 20-30 drops in water or tea as needed to help with anxiety.
4. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis tinctures contains rosmarinic acid, luteolin, and 1,8-cineole, which are bioactive constituents that help alleviate anxiety.
These compounds have a sedative effect on the nervous system, reducing restlessness and irritability. Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant properties that protect against stress-induced cell damage, while luteolin has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the nervous system. The anxiolytic properties of Melissa officinalis tinctures can be attributed to the interaction between these bioactive constituents and the body's neurotransmitters, promoting relaxation and calmness.
By regulating the body's response to stress, Melissa officinalis tinctures can provide relief from anxiety symptoms.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh Melissa officinalis leaves and flowers, and clean them with water.
- Combine the cleaned Melissa leaves and flowers with 2 cups of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Close the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
- Store the Melissa officinalis tincture in a cool, dark place and use 10-20 drops as needed to help with anxiety.
5. Avena sativa
Avena sativa tinctures contains a mixture of bioactive constituents, including avenacosides and avenalins.
These compounds have a sedative effect on the nervous system, helping to calm the mind and body. Avena sativa also contains gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that regulates anxiety and stress responses. The tincture's ability to enhance GABA activity can lead to a sense of relaxation and reduced anxiety levels.
By interacting with the body's natural chemistry, Avena sativa tinctures can help to alleviate anxiety symptoms and promote a sense of calm.
- Get 1 cup of fresh or dried Avena sativa roots and stems.
- Combine the Avena sativa with 2 cups of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean jar.
- Store the tincture in the refrigerator and take 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day, as needed.
6. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale tinctures contains the active constituents gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help calm the body and mind.
These compounds work by reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation, making them effective in reducing anxiety. The tincture also contains ginger's volatile oils, including borneol and citral, which have a sedative effect on the nervous system. The combination of these bioactive compounds helps to balance the body's response to stress, leading to a sense of calmness and reduced anxiety.
Regular use of Zingiber officinale tinctures may help alleviate anxiety symptoms by promoting a state of relaxation and reducing inflammation.
- Gather 1 cup of Zingiber officinale roots and 2 cups of 80% vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Add the Zingiber officinale roots to the jar and pour the vodka over them, making sure they are completely covered.
- Steep the mixture in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool, dark place and take 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day, as needed to help with anxiety.
7. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba tinctures contains flavonoids, bilobalide, and ginkgolides as its active constituents.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help protect the brain from damage and improve its function. The flavonoids, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, also have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can contribute to reduced anxiety levels. Additionally, the ginkgolides have a regulating effect on neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in mood regulation.
By balancing these neurotransmitters, Ginkgo biloba tinctures may help alleviate anxiety symptoms and promote a sense of calm.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried Ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers. Clean and dry the workspace.
- Use a blender or food processor to crush the Ginkgo biloba into a fine powder.
- Combine 2 tablespoons of the crushed Ginkgo biloba powder with 1 cup of vodka in a clean glass jar. Stir well.
- Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool, dark place.
8. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum tinctures contains a high concentration of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and volatile oils.
These compounds have been shown to have a sedative effect on the nervous system, which can help reduce anxiety. The flavonoids in Hypericum perforatum, such as rutin and quercetin, have antioxidant properties that can help protect against oxidative stress, a known contributor to anxiety. The phenolic acids, including hyperoside and isoquercetin, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the brain, which is often associated with anxiety.
By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, Hypericum perforatum tinctures can help calm the nervous system and promote a sense of well-being.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried Hypericum perforatum flowers. Clean them with a soft brush.
- Fill a clean glass jar with 1 cup of the flowers. Add 2 cups of vodka (95% or higher) or glycerin.
- Close the jar and shake it well for 5-10 minutes. This helps the flowers release their properties.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place and shake it every day for 2-3 weeks. This helps the tincture to mature.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids. Use 20-30 drops of the tincture as needed to help with anxiety.
9. Panax ginseng
Panax ginseng tinctures contains bioactive constituents like ginsenosides, which have been found to have a positive impact on anxiety.
These compounds work by modulating the body's response to stress, promoting relaxation and reducing feelings of overwhelm. The ginsenosides in Panax ginseng tinctures have been shown to increase the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which help to regulate mood and reduce anxiety. Additionally, ginsenosides have been found to have a sedative effect on the nervous system, helping to calm the mind and body.
By reducing stress and promoting relaxation, Panax ginseng tinctures may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Panax ginseng root, 2 cups of 80% vodka, and a clean glass jar.
- Combine the dried Panax ginseng root and vodka in the glass jar, making sure the root is fully covered.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool, dark place, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool, dark place and take 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day, as needed to help with anxiety.
10. Humulus lupulus
Humulus lupulus tinctures contains several bioactive constituents that help with anxiety.
The primary active compounds include lupulone and humulone, which are flavonoids that act as a sedative and anxiolytic. These compounds work by interacting with the body's GABA receptors, helping to regulate and balance the nervous system. Additionally, Humulus lupulus tinctures contain humulinone, a sesquiterpene that has a calming effect on the mind and body.
By interacting with the brain's neurotransmitters, these compounds can help to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of relaxation.
- Gather 250g of dried Humulus lupulus flowers and 1 cup of vodka (at least 40% ABV) in a clean glass jar.
- Add the dried flowers to the jar and pour the vodka over them. Make sure the flowers are completely covered.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking it daily. This will allow the flowers to infuse into the vodka.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to small dark glass bottles with dropper lids and store them in a cool, dark place. The recommended dose for anxiety is 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day.
11. Schisandra chinensis
Schisandra chinensis tinctures contains a unique blend of bioactive constituents, including schisandrins, lignans, and polysaccharides.
These compounds have been shown to have a positive impact on anxiety by interacting with the body's stress response system. Schisandrins, in particular, have been found to have anxiolytic properties, helping to reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. The lignans in Schisandra chinensis have also been found to have a sedative effect, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
By reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, Schisandra chinensis tinctures can help individuals manage stress and improve their overall mental well-being.
- Gather 250g of dried Schisandra chinensis roots and berries. Use a clean glass jar to store them.
- Combine the dried Schisandra roots and berries with 1 cup of 80-proof vodka in the glass jar. Stir well to mix.
- Close the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day. This helps the tincture to infuse.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
- Label the tincture with the date and the Schisandra chinensis concentration. Store it in a cool, dark place. Take 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day, as needed for anxiety.
FAQ
Can drinking herbal tea prevent anxiety from forming?
Drinking herbal tea may help calm anxiety.
Some teas, like chamomile and lavender, contain soothing compounds that can ease nervous feelings. When you drink these teas, you may feel a sense of calm wash over you.
This can help your mind and body relax, making it easier to manage anxiety.
Is it safe to consume herbal teas for anxiety every day?
Consuming herbal teas for anxiety daily can be safe, but it depends on the tea and its ingredients.
Some teas, like chamomile or lavender, are calming and gentle. However, teas with stimulants like ginseng or yerba mate can actually increase anxiety.
Listen to your body and adjust your tea choices accordingly.
How long does it take for herbal teas to show results in anxiety?
Herbal teas can start to help with anxiety after a few days of regular use.
Some people feel a calming effect within 24 to 48 hours, while others may notice a change in their mood after a week or two.
It's different for everyone, and the results can vary depending on the type of tea and the individual's needs.
What time of day is best to drink herbal tea for anxiety?
For anxiety, herbal tea is often best in the evening.
Drinking it then can help calm your mind and body before bed.
It's a soothing way to unwind after a long day, making it easier to relax and fall asleep.