The GABA group was found to be considerably more relaxed as they performed a stressful task. Researchers went on to conclude that GABA can work as a natural relaxant. Xanax is a controlled substance and has become an often abused drug due to what’s known as a “Xanax high”. It is fairly easy to develop a tolerance to Xanax and the drug is abused by people both with and without a prescription. And finally, it is not advised for people to share their medications with other people.
Mirtazapine Withdrawal: All You Need to Know
However, it works by enhancing GABA activity in the brain, which can lead to sedation, dependency, and withdrawal symptoms even with short-term use. Many patients who use it long-term find themselves needing higher doses to maintain effectiveness—a phenomenon known as tolerance. Furthermore, abrupt cessation can result in severe rebound anxiety, insomnia, and in extreme cases, seizures. Addiction Resource is an educational platform for sharing and disseminating information about addiction and substance abuse recovery centers. Addiction Resource is not a healthcare provider, nor does it claim to offer sound medical advice to anyone. Addiction Resource does not favor or support any specific recovery center, nor do we claim to ensure the quality, validity, or effectiveness of any particular treatment center.
- With modern scientific methodologies, we’re now beginning to understand its profound beneficial effects and its ability to reduce stress and anxiety.
- There are multiple reasons that Xanax is so widely used for treating anxiety.
- Additionally, a natural equivalent to Valium or Xanax may offer cognitive benefits, improved resilience to stress, and fewer negative side effects.
- Several studies have indicated that processed roots or stems of the valerian plant might reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and may improve sleep quality, although further research is needed.
- In individuals with anxiety disorders, GABA imbalance leads to heightened anxiety and excessive worry.
Valerian root
If you’re new to meditation, start with just a few minutes each natural xanax alternatives for anxiety otc xanax replacements day and then gradually increase the time as you become more comfortable with the practice. The ancient practice of meditation, deeply rooted in numerous cultures and traditions, has stood the test of time. Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, and tempeh are rich natural sources of probiotics. Incorporating these foods into your diet can support a balanced gut microbiome. The nervous system relies heavily on B vitamins, especially B1 (thiamine), B3 (niacin), and B12, for its proper function. B vitamins are a group of water-soluble vitamins that are essential for optimal health.
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine drug in the class of allergy medications but also has some sedating and anxiolytic effects. AddictionResource aims to present the most accurate, trustworthy, and up-to-date medical content to our readers. Our team does their best for our readers to help them stay informed about vital healthcare decisions. Deficiency in vitamins has been shown to be a precipitating factor for the development of psychiatric illnesses and dull response to antipsychotics.
Ashwagandha: Balancing Stress Hormones
5-HTP is touted as a natural anxiety remedy because of its ability to boost serotonin. Many prescription medications for treating anxiety (like SSRIs and SNRIs) raise serotonin in your brain. The major difference is that natural Xanax alternatives are less likely to have detrimental side-effects, and carry a lower risk of dependence or addiction. They are also more widely available and can be bought ‘over the counter‘, as you do not need a prescription, and almost all are beneficial to your health in more areas than one 7. When speaking with your healthcare professional, be sure to provide them with a full list of other medications and supplements you’re taking as negative drug interactions with Xanax are possible 2. A review of 38 studies found that taking psychobiotics can effectively reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental disorders.
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
Benzodiazepines like Xanax act on the brain and central nervous system (CNS) to produce a calming effect. It burns off stress hormones and increases feel-good endorphins to help you handle daily stress. The presence of calming l-theanine in tea softens the effects of caffeine, making it a better choice than other caffeinated drinks.
- One of the primary ways Ashwagandha combats stress and anxiety is by regulating cortisol levels.
- Despite the popularity of Xanax, many people look for alternative prescription medications that offer anxiety relief without the same risks of dependency and withdrawal.
- Some over-the-counter products blend several of these ingredients, aiming for a synergistic effect.
- While these drugs aren’t habit-forming, it usually isn’t recommended that a person take them on a long-term basis.
- However, another concern with Xanax or any benzodiazepines is the chance of increased risk for dementia, the higher your dose and the longer you use it.
The Calming Power of Valerian Root
It focuses on healing the nervous system, processing unresolved trauma, and reducing hypervigilance without relying on medication. In extreme or chronic situations these can include psychosis, sickness, and even death. The use of sleep deprivation in torture has fallen largely out of use at the present time because cognitive impairment makes any information gained unreliable. Research has established that neurotoxins collect in a person’s body throughout their lifetime, resulting in an over-stimulated nervous system. Additional factors such as an overly demanding workplace, a foundering marriage, or other stressors can overwhelm a person. But if toxic impairment has not been tested for and corrected, other therapies such as counseling may not be effective until eliminating the toxic burden.
Kava (Piper methysticum)
While it might be a lifeline for some, it’s essential to understand its implications fully. Rooted in a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, it’s a condition that can drastically reduce one’s quality of life. But what amplifies its impact is its deceptive nature; it often remains cloaked, concealed behind daily stresses, making diagnosis and treatment a challenge. It is intended for general informational purposes and is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
The Quality of Natural Alternatives: Your Health Matters
In this article, we’ll dive into 15 powerful natural substitutes that could provide the calm you’re looking for. Say goodbye to the traditional, and explore these holistic approaches that might just change the way you manage anxiety. The major upside to lavender/silexan over other anti-anxiety medications is the almost complete lack of abuse potential in healthy recreational users of the lavender extract 18.
If you’ve been using benzodiazepines for a long time, this process may take several months. In some instances, another type of medication is replaced with Xanax to help ease withdrawal symptoms. It’s important to remember that the best type of anxiety medication is the one that works for you.
Valerian is a tall, flowering plant native to Europe and Asia sold as a dietary supplement in the United States. Several studies have indicated that processed roots or stems of the valerian plant might reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and may improve sleep quality, although further research is needed. The exact mechanism by which this occurs is unknown, but likely, multiple components of the plant act synergistically. Melatonin supplements are considered safe and clinically meaningful alternatives to traditional sleep aids for adults and children. Unlike more traditional options, melatonin has been shown to synchronize circadian rhythms and improve the onset, duration, and quality of sleep. Physical dependence can begin within a few days of taking the drug, even when taking it as prescribed, depending on the individual and their proclivity to develop physical dependence.
When it comes to anxiety or medication dependence, a multifaceted approach can provide the most holistic relief. If you or a loved one exhibits multiple signs of addiction, it’s imperative to consult a healthcare professional. A dedicated doctor can provide tailored advice and recommend specialist addiction services or therapists. While Xanax has gained widespread recognition for its immediate relief against anxiety, relying on it isn’t without its pitfalls.