Anxiety is something many people struggle with—particularly when life feels stressful or chaotic. When certain situations like starting a new job, financial strain, or health challenges arise it’s normal to experience feelings of worry or anxiousness. When that anxiety is debilitating and negatively impacts your daily life, however, it’s a good idea to reach out for help.
There are many ways—both traditional and alternative—to seek support if you’re experiencing anxiety. Different forms of therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or ancient practices like yoga and meditation are all options to help you gain more peace of mind.
One natural approach that’s becoming increasingly popular in the West is drinking tea made from the South Pacific plant, kava. Let’s take a closer look at what kava tea is, and how that natural approach to anxiety compares to traditional medications.
Understanding kava and how it can help with anxiety
Kava is a plant that grows all over the South Pacific. Kava tea has been used in native cultural traditions for over 3,000 years to promote feelings of internal peace and happiness.
There are many strains and varieties of kava—each having unique properties and effects. Some varieties primarily promote feelings of relaxation and euphoria, while others may offer more creativity and stimulation or sedation and pain relief.
While kava won’t exactly cure anxiety, it does have properties that can help alleviate some of its symptoms. Kava’s calming effects can help put your mind and body at ease when you’re feeling anxious. If anxiety is preventing you from sleeping, the relaxing, sedative qualities of kava can help you drift off quickly and sleep more deeply.
When drinking kava to settle feelings of anxiety, be sure to find a strain that offers your desired effects. Noble varieties tend to work well for daily use, as the effects typically don’t last as long as tudei varieties. Because kava has properties that can make you drowsy, it’s best when enjoyed as your last beverage of the day.
Traditional medications and anxiety
Many people who experience anxiety are prescribed traditional medicine to help manage its symptoms. Pharmaceutical drugs certainly have their time and place, and depending on how severe your anxiety is and what works well with your body, you may also choose to go this route.
For some, traditional medicine is a game-changer when dealing with anxiety. Others, however, may experience negative reactions to the drugs. Possible side effects depend on the specific medication, the strength of the dose, and how each individual’s body reacts to the substance. With these factors in mind, some potential side effects include nausea, headaches, low blood pressure, memory loss, and depression.
Knowing what’s right for you
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to managing feelings of anxiousness. If you’re looking for a more natural approach, consider using kava to reduce anxiety. Be sure to buy your kava from suppliers who source plants that are organically grown without the use of chemicals.
Wherever you are in your decision-making process, it’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before making any major changes to your lifestyle.
