Jin Bu Huan and Kava-kava are considered to be used as a sedative and for anxiety, respectively, however, due to their side-effects (hepatotoxicity), these products should be avoided.

Ginkgo may be used to treat anxiety, but only in Alzheimer’s disease patients. This product was tested and results showed that the receptor density increased for the 5-HT_1A receptors.

Melatonin is used in treating insomnia as it is a serotonin derivative thus it helps regulate sleep-wake cycles. This increases REM sleep and has a hypnotic effect (it was reported to improve sleep onset, quality, and duration). Melatonin can also be used as an anxiolytic before and after surgery. Lavender also helps with insomnia, as it antagonizes serotonin transporters and NMDA receptors.

Valerian, hops, passion-flower, and lemon balm products may be used in the treatment of anxiety and insomnia.

References:

• https://www.intechopen.com/books/different-views-of-anxiety-disorders/herbal-remedies-to-treat-anxiety-disorders
• https://civilizedcaveman.com/health/benefits-lemon-balm-sleep-wellness/
• https://blog.bioticsresearch.com/botanicals-for-a-better-sleep