Anxiety is a problem more common than you guessed, with one out of five people in the U.S. experiencing some form of anxiety problems. In this article, we will discuss some of the natural remedies for anxiety that are effective, affordable, and accessible at the same time.

While it might be offensive to call it a disorder or mental health issue, the first step in fixing the problem is to admit that there is indeed a problem. Anxiety is the most common mental health problem not only in the U.S  but also all over the world. If you are currently experiencing anxiety or suspecting yourself to, you are definitely not alone.

The good news is you don’t have to solely rely on chemical-induced medications, as there are a lot of natural remedies for anxiety available. Some can be done with simple DIY approaches, while some are readily available from your local markets.

In no particular order, here are our top 10 picks of natural remedies for anxiety.

1.Chamomile

Chamomile contains luteolin and apigenin, two powerful natural chemicals that can promote relaxation. You can easily make your own DIY chamomile tea by buying dried organic Chamomile flowers. It can also come as packaged tea,essential oil and pills.

2.Green Tea

Green tea has risen in popularity for the past decade or so for its many health benefits. The source of those health benefits is the amino acid L-theanine, which can regulate heart rate and blood pressure, which in turn will reduce anxiety. If you are also having trouble sleeping -which is common for people with anxiety-, green tea is also a natural sleep remedy.

You can also get L-Theanine from supplements, such as this one.

3. Lavender

Lavender has been the focal point of many old wives tales, with seemingly magical properties to help you sleep and reduce stress. Turns out, although it’s not magical, the claims are true. Many studies have suggested that lavender is indeed effective at treating stress, anxiety, and even insomnia.

Lavender can come in many forms from lavender oil for aromatherapy, and even supplemental pills.

4.Omega-3

Omega-3 is not only effective at maintaining a healthy heart and cholesterol level but can also treat depression and anxiety. Salmon is definitely the number one natural source for the powerful fatty acid, and you can also get it from sardines, mussels, and anchovies. For those who can’t stand seafood, you can always consider fish oil supplements.

5. Hot Bath with Epsom salts

Even without Epsom salts, a relaxing, soothing hot bath can be the most effective ways to regulate mood and anxiety. Raising your body temperature is very relaxing, and with some Epsom salts, you can calm your anxiety further thanks to the magnesium sulfate. It is also great at lowering blood pressure, protecting you from many diseases.

You can combine the Epsom salts bath with lavender, vanilla, or lemongrass essential oil for added benefits.

6.Eat Whole Grains

Whole-wheat bread and other whole grain foods are rich in magnesium, as well as the amino acid L-tryptophan. L-tryptophan is processed into serotonin, a hormone responsible for regulating calmness and improving your mood throughout the day.

Low-fiber options, such as white bread, should be avoided. They can cause blood sugar spike, which can, in turn, affect your mood. Oats are also a great source for whole grains and serotonin production.

7.Exercise

Now, this one might throw you off. Is exercise natural? It is, and it is also a powerful antidote to anxiety, depression, and even sleep problems, not to mention all the health benefits. Don’t have enough time? No worries, studies have shown that only 21-minutes of exercise every day is enough to boost your mood.

8.Sunlight for vitamin D

Vitamin D is naturally produced by the body with the help of early morning sunlight exposure. In turn, vitamin-D help treats depression and anxiety. Besides, exposing yourself to outdoor activity can be very effective to calm yourself.  Try to find a good park with a lot of greens to spend 15-minutes every day, which is enough to boost your mood. Don’t forget to protect your skin with sunscreen.

9.Lemon Balm

The history of lemon balm to calm stress and anxiety stretched as far as the middle ages, and it has been proven time and time again to be very effective. You can get lemon balm as supplemental pills, tea, and tincture. One thing to keep in mind is that an overdose of lemon balm can actually make you more anxious, so start with the smallest dose and follow directions.

10.Face it and Laugh it Off

Nothing is truer than the old saying: laugh is the best medicine. In the end, anxiety’s core is a state of mind. Face your problems, shake it off, and enjoy entertainments that will make you laugh. Research shows that even fake laugh can increase dopamine instantly, a brain chemical who controls pleasure.

As you expose yourself to your worst fear more often, you will be less worried over time. Laughing is indeed, the best natural remedies for anxiety.