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Anxiety is a word almost everyone relates to today due to its almost epidemic nature in our society.
Dictionary.com defines anxiety as “distress or uneasiness of mind caused by fear of danger or misfortune”.
In the thousands of years we have lived on earth we embraced danger occasionally and anxiety would naturally develop however that was a protective mechanism that actually helped us move away from the potential risk. An example would be stumbling onto a rattlesnake and instantly we would jump back and our heart would race to help us react quickly to save our life. The problem today is that it feels like multiple times a day we are about to step on this snake due to the fast paced life we have chosen to live. This type of non stop up-regulating of our nervous system can be literally disastrous to our health and wellbeing.
Because of this Americans are taking a “startling” amount of mental-health related medications, according to a big new study by Medco Health Solutions.
More than 1 in 5 Americans now takes at least one drug to treat a psychological disorder, ranging from antidepressants like Prozac to anti-anxiety drugs like Xanax Share on XI have listened to hundreds of individuals over the years share their pain of anxiety. However, the stories of their addiction to synthetic anti-anxiety drugs are often far worse than the condition itself.
Those individuals who have enlightened themselves as to the choices of natural options for anxiety that have incredible safety and positive effects are continuing to grow. The herbal remedies produced by quality manufacturers are numerous and studies continue to confirm their benefit with zero addition. One of these herbs that I have witnessed impressive results with is Kava.
In a study on Kava,”Efficacy of Kava Extract for Treating Anxiety: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis,” Pittler MH, Ernst E, J Clin Psychopharmacol, February, 2000;20(1): 84-89. it was stated that Kava is superior to placebo as a treatment for anxiety and referred to Kava as showing a significant difference in reduction of anxiety!
I have personally been using and recommending a powdered Kava that I mix up in cold water anytime I feel the need to calm down and slow the over-thinking mind. I once heard the rambling thought process in our mind, referred to as “cognitive popcorn” and I know many of us can relate to this term. The powdered Kava begins working within 30 minutes and lasts approximately 4 to 8 hours depending on the person. I must admit the taste is horrendous and it also numbs your tongue for a few minutes but most people find it easy to tolerate in order to feel less anxious. A second option is Kava that has been mixed with chocolate in a bar which is more palatable.
I would recommend not driving while taking Kava until you have experienced its effects.
This also is not meant to replace medicine and if you are being treated for a health concern, check with your health professional before using…
