Kava is a Pacific Island plant traditionally used for its calming effects, primarily explored for its potential to alleviate anxiety symptoms.
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Anxiety
Get updatesLast reviewed June 12, 2026 · AI-assisted, human-reviewed
Overview
Anxiety is a natural human emotion characterized by feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease, often about an event with an uncertain outcome, but it can become a disorder when these feelings are persistent, excessive, and interfere with da
Anxiety is a common experience, often serving as a protective mechanism that alerts us to potential dangers. However, when anxiety becomes chronic or disproportionate to the situation, it can significantly impact well-being and daily functioning. Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions globally. These disorders encompass a range of conditions, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias, each with distinct characteristics but sharing a core of excessive fear and worry.
The experience of anxiety can manifest in various ways, including physical sensations like a racing heart or shortness of breath, cognitive symptoms such as difficulty concentrating or intrusive thoughts, and behavioral changes like avoidance or restlessness. The exact causes are complex and believed to involve a combination of genetic predispositions, brain chemistry, personality traits, and life experiences, including stress and trauma. While anxiety is a normal part of life, understanding its various forms and potential impacts is crucial for recognizing when to seek support and implement strategies for managing its effects.
View Community DiscussionWhen to seek urgent medical care
- Thoughts of self-harm or harming others
- Inability to perform daily tasks due to anxiety
- Panic attacks with chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Severe withdrawal from social interactions
- Hallucinations or delusions
- Sudden onset of severe anxiety without clear cause
- Symptoms worsening despite self-help efforts
- Substance abuse to cope with anxiety
Common symptoms
- Excessive worry
- Restlessness
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Muscle tension
- Sleep disturbances
- Panic attacks
- Avoidance behaviors
- Increased heart rate
Possible contributors
- Genetics
- Brain chemistry imbalances
- Stressful life events
- Trauma
- Chronic illness
- Substance use or withdrawal
- Personality factors
- Certain medications
- Thyroid disorders
- Nutritional deficiencies
Labs to discuss with your clinician
- Thyroid Panel (TSH, T3, T4)
- Vitamin D levels
- Magnesium levels (RBC Magnesium)
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Fasting Glucose
- Inflammatory markers (e.g., CRP)
All Remedies
Ranked by community outcomes, then evidence grade, Health Voice mentions, and recency.
Remedies
Why it may help Anxiety: Vitamin D3 may alleviate anxiety by influencing neurotransmitter synthesis and regulating inflammatory pathways in the brain, which are implicated in mood disorders and stress responses.
- Typical dose
- 2000-5000 IU daily
- Mechanism
- Essential for brain function and may play a role in mood regulation.
- Notes
- Best to test levels and supplement under guidance.
- Evidence
- limited
Why it may help Anxiety: Rhodiola Rosea may alleviate anxiety by modulating the HPA axis and neurotransmitter systems, helping the body adapt to stress and reducing symptoms of mental fatigue and anxiousness.
Why it may help Anxiety: 5-MTHF may alleviate anxiety by facilitating the synthesis of key neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are vital for mood regulation and stress resilience.
Why it may help Anxiety: Vitamin B6 may help alleviate anxiety by acting as a cofactor in the synthesis of neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA, which are crucial for mood regulation and calming neural activity.
Why it may help Anxiety: GABA may help anxiety by binding to GABA receptors in the brain, increasing inhibitory neurotransmission, which reduces neuronal excitability and promotes a calming effect on the central nervous system.
- Typical dose
- 250-750 mg daily
- Mechanism
- A neurotransmitter that can have calming effects on the brain.
- Notes
- Effectiveness of oral GABA crossing the blood-brain barrier is debated, but some report benefits.
- Evidence
- limited
Why it may help Anxiety: Holy Basil may alleviate anxiety by modulating the HPA axis and reducing cortisol levels, thereby helping the body adapt to stress and promoting a sense of calm.
Emerging Research
Why it may help Anxiety: Ashwagandha, an adaptogen, is studied for its potential anxiolytic properties. Its active compounds, withanolides, may contribute to these effects by potentially modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is involved in the stress response. This modulation might help the body adapt to stress and reduce physiological markers associated with anxiety.
- Typical dose
- 300-600 mg of root extract daily
- Mechanism
- Adaptogenic herb that may help the body manage stress.
- Notes
- Typically taken for several weeks to observe effects.
- Evidence
- moderate
Individuals with anxiety who also have thyroid conditions should use caution, as ashwagandha may influence TSH, T3, and T4 levels, particularly in subclinical hypothyroid subjects. As it may lower blood pressure and blood sugar, those on related medications for anxiety or co-existing conditions should consult a healthcare provider. Pregnant individuals are generally advised to avoid ashwagandha.
Why it may help Anxiety: Magnesium is involved in numerous enzymatic reactions and plays a role in nervous system regulation. It appears to modulate NMDA receptors and support healthy GABAergic tone, which may contribute to a calming effect. These actions could potentially help in mitigating symptoms of anxiety.
- Typical dose
- 200-400 mg daily
- Mechanism
- May help regulate neurotransmitters and promote relaxation.
- Notes
- Glycinate form is often preferred for its bioavailability and calming properties.
- Evidence
- moderate
While generally considered safe, high doses of magnesium may lead to gastrointestinal upset, such as loose stools. Individuals with kidney impairment should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before considering magnesium supplementation for anxiety. It is important to note potential interactions with certain medications, including some antibiotics and diuretics.
Why it may help Anxiety: Lavender, particularly its constituents linalool and linalyl acetate, has been studied for its potential anxiolytic properties. These compounds may modulate voltage-gated calcium channels, which is a mechanism explored for its calming effects on the nervous system. This action may contribute to a reduction in anxiety symptoms.
When used topically, lavender essential oil may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Oral forms of lavender may interact with sedative medications, potentially increasing their effects. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a healthcare professional before using lavender for anxiety.
Why it may help Anxiety: Chamomile contains compounds such as apigenin, a flavonoid that appears to interact with GABA receptors in the brain. This interaction is thought to potentially influence neurological pathways involved in relaxation. By modulating these receptors, chamomile may help to reduce feelings of anxiety and promote a sense of calm.
Individuals with allergies to plants in the ragweed family (e.g., ragweed, marigolds, daisies) may experience allergic reactions to chamomile. It may also interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and sedatives, due to its potential mild sedative effects.
Why it may help Anxiety: CBD oil appears to interact with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in mood regulation. It may also modulate serotonin 5-HT1A receptors, which are involved in anxiety disorders, and affect TRPV1 receptors. Additionally, CBD has been studied for its potential to reduce inflammatory cytokines, which may contribute to some forms of anxiety.
When considering CBD for anxiety, potential interactions with other sedating medications or anxiolytics should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Drowsiness, dry mouth, and diarrhea are reported general side effects. Quality control is particularly important given the variability in available products.
Why it may help Anxiety: Valerian root contains compounds like valerenic acid which are thought to interact with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain. This interaction may lead to a calming effect, potentially reducing feelings of anxiety. The modulation of GABA-A receptors has been studied for its potential role in promoting relaxation and reducing neuronal excitability.
Given its potential to cause drowsiness, valerian root should be used with caution, especially before activities requiring alertness, such as driving. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation. Interactions with other sedatives, alcohol, or medications metabolized by certain liver enzymes may occur.
Why it may help Anxiety: Passionflower may alleviate anxiety by increasing levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which reduces neuronal excitability and promotes a calming effect.
Why it may help Anxiety: Methylated B-Complex may alleviate anxiety by supporting neurotransmitter synthesis and methylation processes, which are crucial for optimal brain function and mood regulation.
Why it may help Anxiety: Omega-3 Fish Oil may alleviate anxiety by reducing systemic inflammation and modulating neurotransmitter pathways, which can improve mood regulation and decrease physiological stress responses.
- Typical dose
- 1000-2000 mg EPA+DHA daily
- Mechanism
- May reduce inflammation and support brain health, potentially impacting mood regulation.
- Notes
- Look for high-quality supplements with good EPA/DHA ratios.
- Evidence
- moderate
Why it may help Anxiety: Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) contains active compounds like crocin and safranal, which have been studied for their potential to influence neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin and dopamine pathways. These modulatory effects may contribute to its observed anxiolytic properties. Furthermore, saffron's constituents appear to interact with the NMDA receptor system, which is implicated in stress responses and anxiety.
- Typical dose
- 30 mg daily
- Mechanism
- May influence neurotransmitter systems involved in mood.
- Notes
- Generally well-tolerated, but consult a healthcare provider.
- Evidence
- moderate
Individuals with existing psychiatric conditions or those taking psychotropic medications should exercise caution and consult a healthcare provider due to potential interactions. Pregnant individuals or those with bleeding disorders should generally avoid saffron. Doses exceeding 1.5 grams per day are considered toxic and may induce adverse effects.
Why it may help Anxiety: Lemon Balm may alleviate anxiety by modulating GABAergic neurotransmission, promoting relaxation and reducing the physiological symptoms associated with stress and anxious states.
Why it may help Anxiety: L-Theanine may alleviate anxiety by increasing alpha brain wave activity and enhancing GABA levels, promoting relaxation without sedation and improving focus.
- Typical dose
- 100-200 mg, 1-3 times daily
- Mechanism
- Amino acid found in green tea that may promote relaxation without sedation.
- Notes
- Often taken when feeling anxious or to improve focus.
- Evidence
- moderate
Why it may help Anxiety: Algal Oil may alleviate anxiety by providing EPA and DHA, which reduce inflammation and modulate neurotransmitter function, thereby supporting brain health and emotional balance.
Why it may help Anxiety: Folate may help alleviate anxiety by supporting the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are essential for mood regulation and stress response.
Dietary Protocols
Community outcomes
What people report for Anxiety
Self-reported by community members · not medical advice.
What people report for this condition
Self-reported community outcomes. Not medical advice. Requires at least three reports per remedy to surface.
Total reports
91
Reported worked
65%
Mixed results
21%
Did not work
13%
Top reported helpful approaches
- Magnesium Glycinate
71% worked · 21 reports
- Ashwagandha
67% worked · 45 reports
- Chamomile
60% worked · 5 reports
- Valerian Root
60% worked · 5 reports
- Lavender
60% worked · 5 reports
- CBD Oil
60% worked · 5 reports
Most reported did not help
- Saffron
40% did not work · 5 reports
- Chamomile
20% did not work · 5 reports
- Valerian Root
20% did not work · 5 reports
- CBD Oil
20% did not work · 5 reports
- Ashwagandha
13% did not work · 45 reports
Most reported side effects
- Chamomile
40% reported side effects · 5 reports
- Valerian Root
40% reported side effects · 5 reports
- Lavender
20% reported side effects · 5 reports
- Ashwagandha
16% reported side effects · 45 reports
- Magnesium Glycinate
5% reported side effects · 21 reports
People Like Me insights
As more members share outcomes, RemedyAtlas will show which remedies helped people with similar conditions, symptoms, goals, and lab patterns.
Community discussion
Structured experience reports from people managing this condition. Not medical advice.
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Community Discussions
What people say about Anxiety
Lifestyle foundations
- Regular physical activity
- Adequate sleep hygiene
- Stress management techniques
- Balanced nutrition
- Mindfulness practices
- Limiting caffeine and alcohol
- Social support
- Exposure to nature
Dietary recommendations
- Anti-inflammatory diet
- Increase omega-3 rich foods
- High-fiber intake
- Limit refined carbohydrates
- Adequate protein intake
- Hydration with water
- Reduce processed foods
- Include fermented foods
- Magnesium-rich foods
- B-vitamin rich foods
Lifestyle interventions
- Aerobic exercise 3-5x/week (30-60 min)
- 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly
- Daily 10-min meditation or deep breathing
- Limit screen time before bed
- Journaling for stress reduction
- Spending time in nature regularly
- Yoga or Tai Chi 2-3x/week
- Practicing progressive muscle relaxation
- Engaging in hobbies or creative activities
- Building strong social connections
Evidence at a glance
Moderate Evidence
MagnesiumL-TheanineAshwagandhaOmega-3 Fatty AcidsChamomileValerian RootPassionflowerLemon BalmRhodiola RoseaSaffron
Traditional Use
Holy Basil (Tulsi)
International evidence & guidelines
How global health authorities view Anxiety.
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) acknowledges that some complementary health approaches, such as meditation, yoga, and certain herbal remedies (e.g., passionflower, valerian), show promise for anxiety, but often state that more rigorous research is needed. The Mayo Clinic often highlights lifestyle interventions like exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep as foundational for managing anxiety. While these bodies recognize the potential benefits of natural approaches, they generally emphasize the importance of discussing these with a healthcare provider, especially when considering them alongside conventional treatments.
Health Voice Perspectives
Approved mentions from health educators, physicians, and researchers across podcasts, videos, and articles. Educational context only — does not influence the scientific evidence rating above.
- BOBarbara O'Neill· Naturopath / health educator
Spoke about lemon balm as a calming herb for nervous tension and restless sleep.
Evidence ecosystem
Indexed studies for Anxiety, grouped by source type and quality.
Filter by source type
Meta-Analyses(17)
Pooled analyses across multiple human trials.
Wang H, Liu Y, Kwok JYY, Xu F, Li R, Tang J · International journal of nursing studies · 2025
The highly prevalent menopausal symptoms among women, along with their deleterious health impacts, call for increased attention to the need for effective interventions targeting this growing public health problem. While increasing evidence demonstrates that yoga interventions benefit menopausal symptoms, no systematic review or meta-analysis has yet systematically examined the effectiveness of yoga on menopausal symptoms. To systematically examine the effectiveness of Yoga in improving menopausal symptoms, hot flashes, depressive symptoms, anxiety, sleep quality, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and quality of life among women with menopause. Systematic review and meta-analysis. Nine electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Science Direct, EMBASE, Cochrane Central, CINAHL, WanFang, and the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, were searched from their inception to March 3, 2024, and updated on August 1, 2024. Randomize
Meta-AnalysisPubMedVery High QualityXu H, Liu J, Li P, Liang Y · Menopause (New York, N.Y.) · 2024 · n=5
The increasing attention to the management of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women parallels the growth of the aging population. Although hormone therapy is commonly used to alleviate menopausal symptoms, it carries a potential risk of cancer. Recently, mind-body exercises have emerged as innovative approaches for improving menopausal symptoms and bone health. However, research findings have needed to be more consistent, highlighting the significance of this study's systematic review of mind-body exercise effects on perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. This study aims to evaluate the impact of mind-body exercises, including tai chi, yoga, Pilates, qigong, baduanjin, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, on bone mineral density, sleep quality, anxiety, depression, and fatigue among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. Four electronic databases-PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science-were systematically searched from inception unt
Meta-AnalysisPubMedVery High QualityGhaemi S, Zeraattalab-Motlagh S, Jayedi A, Shab-Bidar S · Psychological medicine · 2024 · n=15
The impact of vitamin D supplementation on depressive symptoms remains uncertain. This study aimed to investigate the dose-dependent effects of vitamin D supplementation on depressive and anxiety symptoms in adults. We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to December 2022 to identify randomized controlled trials evaluating the effects of vitamin D3 supplementation on depression and anxiety symptoms in adults. Using a random-effects model, we calculated the standardized mean difference (SMD) for each 1000 IU/day vitamin D3 supplementation. The GRADE tool assessed the certainty of evidence. Our analysis included 31 trials with 24189 participants. Each 1000 IU/day vitamin D3 supplementation slightly reduced depressive symptoms in individuals with and without depression (SMD: -0.32, 95% CI -0.43 to -0.22; GEADE = moderate). The effect was more pronounced in those with depressive symptoms (SMD: -0.57, 95% CI -0.69 to -0.44; n = 15). The greatest reduction occurred a
Meta-AnalysisPubMedVery High Quality
Systematic Reviews(6)
Structured reviews of the full body of evidence (incl. Cochrane).
Borges-Vieira JG, Cardoso CKS · Nutritional neuroscience · 2023 · n=256
This systematic review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of B vitamins and vitamin D therapy in improving the standard treatment of depression and anxiety disorders. We also aimed to gather the evidence supporting the recommendations for supplementation in clinical practice. Performed between March 2020 and September 2021, the main inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), with patients ≥ 18 years old, both sexes, fulfilling target diagnoses of major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), or mild to severe depressive and anxiety symptoms. In addition, the RCTs were included if the scales to assess the severity of the symptoms were standardized rating scales in psychiatric. Trials that reported diagnoses of schizophrenia, perinatal depression, bipolar depression, sleep disorders, eating disorders, cancer, and multiple sclerosis in association with any of the mentioned diagnoses were excluded. We identified 20 RCTs that match
Systematic ReviewPubMedVery High QualitySarris J, Mehta B, Óvári V, Ferreres Giménez I · Nutricion hospitalaria · 2021
Objective: to perform a systematic literature review to examine the effects of high-dose, B-complex multivitamin/mineral supplementation on physical, mental, and energy outcomes in healthy and 'at-risk' (suboptimal nutritional status/subclinical symptoms at baseline) adult populations. Methods: PubMed was searched for relevant randomized controlled trials until January 2020. Results: overall, 136 publications were identified. In the seven randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies considered eligible for inclusion, supplementation in healthy populations predominantly showed improvements in perceived stress, physical stamina, concentration, and general mental health, and significant reductions in anxiety and improvements in self-reported vigour. However, not all of these outcomes were significant, and statistical correction for multiple outcomes was not commonly employed. Studies investigating brain mapping following supplementation indicated increased functional activity in b
Systematic ReviewPubMedVery High QualityOlsson Möller U, Beck I, Rydén L, Malmström M · BMC cancer · 2019
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common type of cancer in women worldwide. Post-treatment, patients suffer from side effects and have various rehabilitation needs, which means that individualization is fundamental for optimal rehabilitation. This systematic review (SR) of SRs aims to evaluate the current evidence on rehabilitation interventions in female patients following BC treatment. Full-text SRs published in English from 2009 were searched in Embase, PubMed, Cinahl Complete, PsycINFO, AMED, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Library. SRs of randomized or non-randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of rehabilitation interventions in women following BC treatment. All outcomes were considered. Methodological quality was evaluated using the AMSTAR 2 tool and interrater agreement was evaluated. Out of 1269 citations retrieved, 37 SRs were included. Five rehabilitation areas were identified: exercise and physical activity (PA), complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), yoga, lymph
Systematic ReviewPubMedVery High Quality
Clinical Guidelines(1)
Recommendations from medical societies (NICE, AHA, ADA, ACG, Endocrine Society…).
Generalised anxiety disorder and panic disorder in adults: management
NICE
This guideline covers recognising, assessing and treating generalised anxiety disorder and panic disorder in adults. It aims to improve access to effective treatments and support for people with these conditions.
Clinical GuidelineNICEHigh Quality
Randomized Human Trials(8)
Controlled human studies with random assignment.
Meditation and Yoga for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
D'Silva A, Marshall DA, Vallance JK, Nasser Y, Rajagopalan V, Szostakiwskyj JH · The American journal of gastroenterology · 2023
Delivered in person, yoga is effective in managing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. The evidence for efficacy, feasibility, and safety of virtually delivered yoga for patients with IBS is unknown. Adults diagnosed with IBS were randomized to either Hatha yoga intervention of 8 weekly online classes delivered virtually or an advice-only control group and assessed at baseline and postintervention. We used an unadjusted ANOVA to determine differences between and within groups on the primary outcome (decrease of ≥50 points in IBS Symptom Severity Scale [IBS-SSS]) and secondary outcomes (quality of life, anxiety and depression, fatigue, somatic symptoms, perceived stress, COVID-19 stress, and self-compassion). We assessed feasibility through recruitment and attrition rates, adherence, participant satisfaction, and safety (i.e., adverse events). Seventy-nine people participated (mean age 45.4 years [SD = 14.0], 92% women, 20% attrition rate). IBS-SSS decreased significantly
Randomized TrialPubMedHigh QualityThe influence of hatha yoga on stress, anxiety, and suppression: A randomized controlled trial.
Szaszkó B, Schmid RR, Pomper U, Maiworm M, Laiber S, Tschenett H · Acta psychologica · 2023
Engaging in yoga may mitigate stress and anxiety in individuals while potentially enhancing one's capacity to manage distractions. Our research aimed to explore the relation between these two outcomes: Can an eight-week yoga program foster distraction suppression, thereby reducing stress and discomfort? To answer this question, we used Hatha Yoga, the most commonly practiced form of yoga. We tested if the intervention improved participants' ability to suppress distractions and selectively decrease self-reported stress and stress reactivity. In Addition, we investigated whether such an intervention would increase participants' mindfulness. Our study included 98 healthy yoga novices between 18 and 40 years who were randomly assigned to either an experimental or a waitlist condition, with each participant completing pre- and post-intervention assessments, including questionnaires, as well as electrophysiological and behavioral measures. After eight weeks of yoga practice, significant
Randomized TrialPubMedHigh QualitySlow breathing for reducing stress: The effect of extending exhale.
Birdee G, Nelson K, Wallston K, Nian H, Diedrich A, Paranjape S · Complementary therapies in medicine · 2023 · n=100
Slow breathing techniques are commonly used to reduce stress. While it is believed by mind-body practitioners that extending the exhale time relative to inhale increases relaxation, this has not been demonstrated. We conducted a 12-week randomized, single-blinded trial among 100 participants to compare if yoga-based slow breathing with an exhale greater inhale versus an exhale equals inhale produces measurable differences in physiological and psychological stress among healthy adults. Participants mean individual instruction attendance was 10.7 ± 1.5 sessions out of 12 offered sessions. The mean weekly home practice was 4.8 ± 1.2 practices per week. There was no statistical difference between treatment groups for frequency of class attendance, home practice, or achieved slow breathing respiratory rate. Participants demonstrated fidelity to assigned breath ratios with home practice as measured by remote biometric assessments through smart garments (HEXOSK
Randomized TrialPubMedHigh Quality
Observational Studies(15)
Cohort, case-control, and cross-sectional human studies.
Cabral MAL, Dutra SVO, Leal KCDS, Rojas YLG, Miranda ABSA, Santos CFD · Complementary therapies in medicine · 2026
Inadequate management of pain and anxiety can prolong hospitalization and increase healthcare costs. Integrative and Complementary Health Practices (ICHP) emerge as safe, accessible, and easily applied alternatives or complements to conventional treatments. Aromatherapy utilizing chamomile essential oil is highlighted for its sedative, anxiolytic, and analgesic properties. To map the existing knowledge regarding the use of chamomile essential oil aromatherapy in the management of pain and anxiety in hospitalized patients within hospital settings. A scoping review was conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines and reported following the PRISMA-ScR checklist. Seventeen studies were included in this review. The literature is predominantly recent (2020-2025) and geographically concentrated in Iran (41.1%). The most frequently represented clinical settings were obstetrics and cardiology (29.4% each). The most evaluated outcomes were anxiety and pain; reductions i
Observational StudyPubMedLow QualityKwok JYY, Chan LML, Lai CA, Ho PWL, Choi ZY, Auyeung M · Psychotherapy and psychosomatics · 2025 · n=53
Clinical guidelines recommend a holistic approach to Parkinson's disease (PD) care, yet randomized trials examining mindfulness-based interventions in this context are scarce. This study investigated the effects of two mindfulness practices - meditation and yoga - on biopsychosocial outcomes in PD patients, including anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, motor/nonmotor symptoms, health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL), mindfulness, and stress and inflammation biomarkers, compared to usual care. 159 participants with a clinical diagnosis of idiopathic PD and a Hoehn and Yahr stage of 1, 2, and 3, were randomized into meditation (n = 53), yoga (n = 52), and control (n = 54). Meditation and yoga were delivered in 90-min groups for 8 weeks. Primary outcomes included anxiety symptoms and depressive symptoms. Secondary outcomes included motor and nonmotor symptoms, HRQOL, mindfulness, and serum levels of interleukin-6, cortisol and TNF-alpha. Assessments were done at baseline (T0), 2 months
Observational StudyPubMedLow QualityCaballero-Gallardo K, Quintero-Rincón P, Olivero-Verbel J · Plants (Basel, Switzerland) · 2025
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) encompasses a variety of ancient therapies with origins in cultures such as those of China, Egypt, Greece, Iran, India, and Rome. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) classifies these integrative therapies into five categories: (1) mind-body therapies, (2) biological practices, (3) manipulative and body practices, (4) energy medicine, and (5) whole medical systems, including traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine. This review explores the role of biological practices utilizing aromatic plants, particularly through inhalation aromatherapy and massage with essential oils, as effective complementary strategies within health systems. The review compiles information on the most commonly used plants and essential oils for holistic health maintenance from a complementary and alternative perspective. Given their accessibility and relative safety compared to conventional treatments, these therapies have gained popularity worldwide. Fu
Observational StudyPubMedLow Quality
Government Health Sources(3)
Public-health agencies: NCCIH, NIH, CDC, NHS.
NCCIH
This NCCIH page provides an overview of anxiety and information on complementary and integrative health approaches for managing anxiety, discussing the evidence for various interventions.
Government SourceNCCIHHigh QualityNHS
This general NHS page discusses herbal medicines broadly, advising caution and consultation with a doctor or pharmacist before use, especially regarding potential interactions with conventional medicines. While not specific to lavender, it provides general guidance applicable to its use for anxiety.
Government SourceNHSHigh QualityNCCIH
This NCCIH fact sheet provides an overview of ashwagandha, including its traditional uses, what the science says about its effectiveness for various conditions like stress and anxiety, and potential side effects or interactions. It emphasizes that more research is needed to confirm many of its purported health benefits.
Government SourceNCCIHHigh Quality
Clinical Trial Registries(109)
Registered ongoing or completed trials (ClinicalTrials.gov).
Prognosis of Anxiety in Intensive Care Unit
n=391 · NCT02355626 · COMPLETED · COMPLETED
Anxiety is commonly considered as an epiphenomenon of the cognitive and emotional response to a threat. Anxiety is a consequence of the reciprocal interaction between stress and the neuroendocrine, autonomic and immune systems. A systematic and circumstantial assessment of anxiety in critically ill patients has never been done. Our hypothesis is that high levels of anxiety at ICU admission are associated with death or the occurrence of one or more organ failure during the first 7 days, and that anxiety should be considered as a "warning sign" in critically ill patients.
Clinical TrialClinicalTrials.govModerate Qualityn=82 · NCT05815121 · COMPLETED · COMPLETED
The objective of this preliminary study is therefore to assess the feasibility, safety and reduction of perioperative anxiety thanks to acupressing. In addition, patients undergoing oocyte retrieval often present postoperatively with nausea, abdominal pain and discomfort. Acupuncture could also help these patients.
Clinical TrialClinicalTrials.govModerate QualityEffect of Esketamine on Anxiety State in Patients Undergoing Abdominal Tumor Surgery
n=185 · NCT06530706 · COMPLETED · COMPLETED
To evaluate whether esketamine can relieve anxiety in patients undergoing abdominal tumor surgery.
Clinical TrialClinicalTrials.govModerate Quality
Evidence Summaries(6)
Curated cross-source summaries (TRIP Database and similar).
Cochrane
The Cochrane Library provides high-quality, independent evidence to inform healthcare decision-making, including systematic reviews related to various anxiety disorders and their treatments.
Evidence SummaryCochraneHigh QualityCochrane reviews on interventions for anxiety disorders
Cochrane
The Cochrane Library provides a collection of systematic reviews on various interventions for anxiety disorders, offering high-quality evidence to inform healthcare decisions.
Evidence SummaryCochraneHigh QualityCochrane Library: Anxiety Disorders
Cochrane
The Cochrane Library provides a collection of high-quality, independent evidence to inform healthcare decision-making, including systematic reviews related to various treatments and interventions for anxiety disorders.
Evidence SummaryCochraneHigh Quality
Working alongside conventional care
Conventional care for anxiety often involves psychotherapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and/or medication, including antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs) or anti-anxiety medications (benzodiazepines). A healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual symptoms and circumstances.
Related conditions
DepressionObsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)Panic DisorderSocial Anxiety DisorderSpecific PhobiasIrritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Latest News
Latest news on Anxiety
Health Videos
Health videos on Anxiety
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions about your health or treatment, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medications.
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