Essential oils extracted from plants are known to have remedial effects. They can be used as a massage oil or can be added to bathing water. These are used to treat anxiety and nervousness because of their body-soothing effects. Herbs like jasmine, cypress, bergamot, geranium, melissa, lavender, sandalwood, neroli and rose can be used to treat the body and mind. Lavender is one such herb that is widely used in most massage therapies and has a pacifying effect on the mind.

Physical and mental exercises like Yoga, self hypnosis, Tai-Chi, meditation, deep breathing and biofeedback are some of the techniques that are being used the world over to treat stress and anxiety. One can try these techniques to determine the exercise that fits one’s daily routine.

GABA basically is an amino acid which is known to play a key role in treating anxiety. The general drugs prescribed for anxiety usually work by affecting the GABA receptors inside our brain. It is hard to point out the degree to which GABA supplements reach the brain but they are known to have a positive effect on treating anxiety.

This herb is commonly known as an alternate herbal remedy to treat insomnia. In other cases, it is often used to treat people suffering from mild form of anxiety. It is generally taken before bedtime and takes about two to three weeks to show its effectiveness. It is usually not advised to take valerian for more than three months at a time. It is also known to have some side effects that may include headache, dizziness, palpitations, mild indigestion etc. Usually, the herb valerian is taken in the form of a capsule as many people do not like the smell of it in the form of liquid and tea extracts.

Consumption of valerian with other medications is strictly prohibited, especially the ones that depress the central nervous system, such as antihistamines and sedatives. It is also not to be taken after or before surgery, or to be administered to people with an enlarged liver or with alcohol. It should not be used before operating any machine or while driving.

This is a herb native to Polynesia. It is known to have anti-anxiety properties. It is used as an alternate medication to treat anxiety and stress. According to researchers, kava may have some side effects for some people when taken as a dietary supplement.

A herb, it is used to cure anxiety and insomnia. Recent studies have proved its effectiveness. It is also used as an alternate to the modern medicine benzodiazepine. Passionflower improves one’s performance at work by reducing anxiety. Passionflower does have side effects such as vomiting, nausea, drowsiness, and rapid heartbeat, but it is comparatively more beneficial than modern medicines.

Body massage therapies like shiatsu and other forms of therapies can be used to relieve stress, reduce muscle tension, improve sleeping habits, and improve one’s overall mental health.