We all know that Xanax is a prescription drug used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It also has some pretty dangerous side effects, including addiction and withdrawal. A lot of people are scared to take prescription drugs, and rightfully so. The side effects can be serious.
Are you looking for a natural alternative to Xanax but don’t have the time or desire to spend hours researching different supplements? In this article, we will explore natural alternatives to Xanax that you may want to consider before filling or refilling your prescription.
What is Xanax?
Xanax is a benzodiazepine medication that is used to treat generalized anxiety disorder and panic attacks. It is a short-acting drug that typically starts working within 30 minutes of taking it.
This medication works by slowing down brain activity, which can help reduce feelings of social anxiety or fear.
Since Xanax is a prescription medication, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions on how to take it. If you are considering stopping Xanax, speak with a medical professional first.
The most common side effects of taking Xanax include:
- Drowsiness
- Lack of balance or coordination
- Memory problems
- Feeling tired
- Slurred speech
- Early morning anxiety
There are also more serious side effects to taking Xanax, which include:
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Increased energy
- Racing thoughts
- Hostility
- Hallucinations
- Unusual risk-taking behavior
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Uncontrolled muscle movements
- Tremor
- Convulsions
- Pounding heartbeats
Natural Alternatives To Xanax
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a natural adaptogen that helps the body cope with stress.
According to a clinical study published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, ashwagandha reduced stress levels in the participants who used it compared to the placebo group.
There are several different ways to take ashwagandha: as a supplement in capsule form, or drinking tea that contains it. Some people also take ashwagandha in tincture form.
If you are looking for an all-natural alternative to Xanax, ashwagandha is a good option. It is safe and effective, and does not have the unpleasant side effects that Xanax does.
Ginkgo Biloba
According to Verywell Mind, this natural herb can aid with the management of anxiety, and some individuals use it to supplement their cognitive behavioral therapy sessions. The herb has also been used to help people with Alzheimer’s disease enhance their cognition.
However, there are certain adverse effects, such as forgetfulness and drowsiness, and according to Verywell Mind, there is currently little scientific study comparing the efficacy of ginkgo Biloba to anti-anxiety drugs in the treatment of anxiety.
Valerian
Valerian root is used for a variety of reasons, one of which is to promote good rest. Its sedative properties may assist insomniacs in getting some rest. It comes in several forms including capsule, tablet, tea bag, or liquid extract.
Some people claim that Valerian makes it easier for them to relax and relieves tension.
Users should take it half an hour to two hours before going to sleep, according to Verywell Mind. It shouldn’t be combined with antidepressants, benzodiazepines, or any other prescription medication because it can cause drowsiness and other potentially dangerous interactions.
Valerian is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing or anyone with liver illness.
Other Safe Alternatives to Xanax
In addition to herbal supplements, there are other effective alternatives to deal with anxiety:
Exercise
One of the best natural alternatives to managing anxiety is exercise. Believe it or not, getting your heart rate up and sweating can help reduce stress. It releases endorphins that make you feel good get your mind off of things that are stressing you out.
If you don’t like to exercise, then try other types of physical activity like yoga or Pilates. Studies have shown that yoga can help improve your mood, increase your energy, and improve your sleep quality. It’s a great way to connect with your body and find some inner peace.
Acupuncture
If you’re looking for a more holistic approach to managing your anxiety, then you might want to try seeing an acupuncturist. Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine that has been used for centuries to treat many health issues, including anxiety.
According to Healthline, participants in a recent study reported considerable improvement that they didn’t get with other anxiety therapies. The individuals in the study had ten half-hour acupuncture sessions for three months and reported decreased anxiety levels.
While other research, on the other hand, found conflicting results, it concluded that acupuncture had no negative effects on anxiety levels.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is one natural alternative to Xanax that doesn’t involve medications. It simply involves taking a nice smelling bath with some natural oils and relaxing in the water for as long as possible, taking deep breaths, and unwinding from your day.
Certain scents like lavender oil, chamomile oil, and rose oil are well known for helping relieve stress and anxiety.
Art Therapy
If you love to express yourself creatively, then you might want to try art therapy. This is a type of therapy involving the use of different forms of art to help deal with emotions and mental health.
Art therapy can help manage anxiety because it allows you to express yourself in a safe and non-judgmental environment as part of a process that enables you to find inner peace.
Dietary changes
Last but not least, dietary changes can also help manage anxiety. What you eat has a huge impact on your mood and emotions, so try to avoid foods that are known to cause inflammation or make you feel bloated.
Here are other dietary changes you can take to help you deal with anxiety:
- Eat a breakfast that includes some protein. This will help you stay full longer and prevent you from binge eating later on in the day.
- Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can make you feel tired and stressed, so make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Caffeine can cause anxiety and jitters, while alcohol can increase your anxiety levels and make it harder for you to sleep.
- Eat a lunch that includes some healthy fats like nuts, avocado, or olives. You can eat carbohydrates but make sure they are complex like whole grains and quinoa and not simple like white bread and pasta. Avoid simple sugars at all costs. Try to drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine and alcohol.
- Eat more leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables. These are all nutrient-rich foods that can help improve your mood and reduce anxiety.
What Is The Difference Between Xanax and Natural Remedies for Anxiety?
Xanax is a prescription drug, so it has more potential for addiction, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. A natural remedy is a medical treatment or therapy derived from plants or animals.
Natural remedies have been scientifically proven to treat anxiety in humans effectively without causing the user to experience side effects. A good example of this natural ingredient is Ashwagandha.
Xanax can be habit-forming and its active ingredients have potential for addiction, causing the user to develop higher tolerance, and therefore need higher doses to achieve its calming effects. A natural remedy is not habit-forming and addictive because once you use it, your body stops producing anxiety symptoms naturally.
Xanax has withdrawal symptoms when used often. These symptoms are uncomfortable and can be dangerous. A natural remedy does not have withdrawal symptoms because you do not need it to function daily, which means that your body doesn’t develop the tolerance for it where you would experience negative effects when stopping its use completely.
Xanax is meant to only treat the symptoms of anxiety and not the underlying cause. Unlike prescription drugs, a natural remedy is meant to treat both the symptoms as well as the root cause of your anxiety by working with your body instead of against it.
Xanax has a risk of being lethal when used in combination with other medications or drugs. A natural remedy has no such risks because it is not prescribed by doctors and cannot be mixed with other substances for safety reasons.
Xanax cannot be used by some people like pregnant women and those with certain medical conditions. A natural remedy is good for anyone who wants to get rid of their severe anxiety without having to worry about the risks that come with prescription drugs or other anti-anxiety medications.
Xanax can be very expensive depending on your insurance coverage. A natural remedy is more affordable and accessible because you can buy it over the counter or online without a prescription.
Conclusion
Ashwagandha, Ginkgo biloba, and Valerian are all herbal remedies that can serve as substitutes for Xanax. They can be used as treatments for anxiety and mood enhancement without the side effects that come with taking prescription drugs.
If you’re looking for a way out of your addiction to Xanax but don’t want to go back to prescription medication, these herbs may provide an alternative solution that’s just as effective in managing symptoms like chronic insomnia, high stress levels, and depression.
If you’re looking for something other than medication to reduce stress hormones or anxiety, give these natural alternatives to Xanax a try, but remember to not cease taking your medication without first talking to your doctor.
