It is important to consult a doctor before starting on a herbal drug.

• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) – regulates a person’s stress response, can be taken as a tablet or tincture
• Chamomile (herb), used in a tea, extract, tablet or skin cream, it can be used for GAD, some patients may have and allergy to this herb, should not be taken with warfarin and cyclosporine
• Valeriana officinalis –, this is used to manage insomnia, anxiety and depression, available in tea, tablet and tincture. CI in pregnant and lactating women. Has sedative effect NOT TO BE TAKEN WITH BD, BARBS AND DRUGS WITH CNS EFFECTS
• Galphimia glauca – used as a tranquilizer to reduce anxiety, this is a good medicine replacement for GAD, studies show it has a greater effecr than Lorazepam
• Prunus serotina - Wild cherry is mainly used in cough syrup but has a moderate sedative effect.
• Essentials oils such as Lavender are also used as stress reducers. Some even have improved sleep.

• Panax ginseng - CI with insomnia
• Kava-kava - prescribed for anxiety has hepatotoxicity as a side effect, some studies say it is safe, although according to the Katzung textbook it should be avoided

Medicalnewstoday.com. 2020. Herbs for anxiety: 9 calming options. [online] Available at: <https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/herbs-for-anxiety> [Accessed 6 March 2021].