Botanical and herbal medications are available anywhere and no prescription is needed. Herbal medications however, possess numerous health benefits and low risks of tolerance and dependence developing. There is no guarantee that they are safe and effective. They were not approved by SAHPRA, thus we do not know their side effects or their interaction with other drugs. If a patient considers taking herbal medication/supplements, they should first consult with a doctor or pharmacist.
Botanicals / herbal remedies that can be used for anxiety and insomnia are as follows:
Passion Flower, Ginseng, Valerian root, Lavender, Lemon Balm, Glycine, Magnesium, St. John's Wort and Melatonin.