Natural remedies for anxiety and stress have been employed for centuries across various cultures, each with its own set of plant-based remedies, relaxation techniques, and holistic philosophies. But if you’re struggling with chronic stress and anxiety, I wouldn’t recommend high doses of caffeine. However, it’s important to point out that coffee is definitely good for brain function. There is a lot of research showing it is very healthy and can be protective against dementia. Regular exercise can help regulate and reduce the release of cortisol, the primary stress hormone, promoting a more balanced emotional state (69). While yoga isn’t a direct pharmaceutical counterpart to Xanax, its consistent practice can substantially aid in managing anxiety and stress.

Physical Exercise as a Natural Anxiety Reducer – Natural Xanax Remedies

Working with a therapist generally involves regular talk therapy sessions where you discuss your feelings, problem-solving strategies, and coping mechanisms to help with your condition. If you want to explore trying antidepressants or another kind of medication to treat your anxiety symptoms, take Talkiatry’s quick online assessment. You will be matched with one of our psychiatrists, who can work with you to decide what treatment path makes sense for you. Unlike benzodiazepines and beta-blockers, which act quickly, SSRIs and SNRIs work by gradually increasing the levels of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the brain. They do not produce immediate mood-altering effects, and users do not typically experience feelings of euphoria or intoxication, the way they might with benzodiazepines, for example.

Download our FREE eBook on 7 Most Powerful Benefits of Nootropics

Although it has not been proven beyond a shadow of a doubt, this is assumed to be a result of magnesium’s interaction with theHPA axis, which regulates cortisol, a stress hormone, as well as GABA. Some of the main active ingredients in ashwagandha are known as withanolides, with withaferin-A being the most prominent one. Without getting too scientific about it, these are known as steroidal lactones that can modulate brain chemistry through various functions. Once again,GABA is thought to produce a calming effect and is believed to play a major role in controlling anxiety, fear, and stress. Mixing Xanax with alcohol may cause breathing problems, drowsiness, and dizziness.

  • However, dizziness and dryness of the mouth have been reported in those using this herb.
  • Yet, for serious conditions, meeting with a healthcare provider ensures you get the comprehensive care necessary.
  • Valium does not cause severe withdrawal symptoms like Alprazolam, but it does cause more drowsiness as a side effect.
  • Alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), and diazepam (Valium) are some of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines.
  • Its sedative effects make it a popular choice for people looking for a natural way to manage both anxiety and insomnia.

I understand that I can opt-out of receiving text messages at any time by responding with STOP. Addiction Resource does not offer medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. Only trained and licensed medical professionals can provide such services.

Art Therapy

It’s not fully understood how benzodiazepines work, but it’s widely agreed that they enhance the activity of the brain chemical GABA. With patience and regular practice, therapy can help people learn to redirect unhelpful thought patterns and ground themselves in the midst of stressful life circumstances. Yoga incorporates the mindfulness of meditation with physical movement to relax and restore the muscles. If you’re considering stopping the use of Xanax, seek the medical advice of your doctor and ask what they recommend as an alprazolam alternative. There are several similar medications available that are considered safer to take over long periods of time. Even someone taking low doses may experience withdrawal after stopping the use of the drug.

  • Rhodiola Rosea is a naturally occurring herb native to cold mountainous areas of Europe and Asia.
  • There are several self-help techniques that can be incorporated into daily routines to drastically reduce symptoms and help manage anxiety over time.
  • Each person’s body reacts differently to herbal treatments like chamomile or amino acids such as L-Theanine.
  • However, some people use OTC supplements like L-theanine, valerian root, or passionflower, which may have mild calming effects and help with anxiety.
  • Gradually reduce your Xanax dosage under medical supervision, allowing your body time to adjust to the natural alternatives.
  • The resultant effect is some degree of central nervous depression that culminates in reduced anxiety.
  • But, you can come pretty close to reducing the vast majority of your anxiety symptoms naturally.

This is because Rhodiola rosea is a powerful adaptogen that helps your brain adapt to stress. So, this supplement can actually lower (or heighten) your body’s level of cortisol depending on what your body needs. Most anxiety sufferers experience great benefits from supplementing with Rhodiola rosea. Please take the time to speak with a medical professional if you currently take Xanax or any other benzodiazepines. You should always speak with a doctor before coming off of any prescription medication.

Ativan Vs. Xanax and Other Xanax Alternatives

We can also provide advice on other ways to steer clear of Xanax addiction. The best way to use Xanax alternatives is determined by the end goal you want to achieve. If one’s goal is to avoid beginning a prescription of benzodiazepines, alternatives (as will be discussed below) can support health before ever starting on neuroleptic drugs. There are many natural Xanax alternatives proven to reduce anxiety effectively and safely. The misconception that meditation is only for religious people is fading. Meditation can be done by anyone and can provide many mental health benefits.

Clinical studies have even compared ashwagandha to anti-anxiety medications like lorazepam (Ativan) in terms of effectiveness. And, people typically use N-A-C because glutathione lowers your oxidative stress, detoxifies your liver, and reduces the anxiety symptoms that you experience. N-A-C is even administered in hospitals when people overdose on acetaminophen (Tylenol).

If you or anyone you know is undergoing a severe health crisis, call a doctor or 911 immediately. Inositol is a substance that is found in high concentrations in the brain. Inositol can be found in pill or powder form at most health and vitamin shops. If you are already taking Alprazolam, do not try to quit cold turkey and substitute it with natural Xanax alternatives without consulting a doctor.

These oils can help relax the mind, ease tension in the body, and improve overall mood. Clinical trials of lemon balm extract have shown this herb can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by as much as 30% 22. There is also limited data suggesting lemon balm promotes healthy sleep-wake cycles and may combat anxiety-related insomnia 23. Studies corroborate that Xanax tends to be as effective as Valium (diazepam) for treating clinical anxiety disorders, but it’s not without drawbacks. Due to a high potential for drug abuse and addiction, Xanax is a controlled substance in the United States. Purchasing Xanax online without a prescription is a) a federal crime, b) highly unsafe, and c) more likely to cause problems than solve them.

As a result, it’s a compelling natural option for those seeking relief from stress and anxiety. One of the primary ways Ashwagandha combats stress and anxiety is by regulating cortisol levels. Elevated cortisol, especially chronically, can lead to a myriad natural alternatives to xanax of health issues, including increased anxiety. One particular study revealed that participants who consumed lemon balm reported improved mood and significantly reduced levels of anxiety (11).