Valium prescriptions are common, especially in the United States. In our fast-paced society, more and more people are suffering from anxiety and other mental health problems. Wandering Minds, who often suffer from stress, anxiety and sleeplessness, are sometimes feeling desperate to find some relief. But not everyone is eager to take pharmaceuticals, as they are usually highly addictive. Luckily, there are natural alternatives to Valium and other Benzos. In this article, you'll find 5 alternative herbal supplements to Valium.
Why choose a natural alternative to Valium?
Valium and other Benzos or pharmaceutical tranquilizers, are highly addictive. Side effects can be harsh, and using Benzos like Valium is never without risk. Natural alternatives to Valium are safe, effective and drug-free. They support the natural healing abilities of the body. Natural tranquilizers can be temporarily used, without the risk of addiction. They are, when used in the right dosage, not harmful to the body.
Calm the body and mind with natural tranquilizers
We all want to feel calm and peaceful. But with our busy lifestyles and everything we want to achieve, this is not always easy. More and more people are suffering from burn-out, stress, anxiety or other mental health problems. Have you tried many things to calm your body and mind, like yoga, mindfulness, aromatherapy and breathwork? Do you still feel you need some support? Then you can calm your body and mind using natural tranquilizers.
Nature offers many different remedies for mental health issues like stress and anxiety. These can offer a great alternative to Valium and other pharmaceutical tranquilizers.
Here you'll find some good natural alternatives to Valium.
Natural tranquilizer #1: GABA
GABA is a calming neurotransmitter in our body, and some people call it a natural tranquilizer. Its function is to be an ‘umbrella', regulating and balancing our other neurotransmitters. Do you suffer from sweaty hands and anxious and restless thoughts? Do you feel uncomfortable when being the center of attention, are you afraid to fail often and does your head turn into a tomato sometimes, out of fear or shame? Then you might suffer from a GABA deficiency. A GABA supplement might be beneficial.
This neurotransmitter doesn't only help us calm down, but it also positively affects our mood (Ortho Health Foundation).
Natural alternative to Valium #2: Magnesium
Magnesium is an important mineral that is necessary for the proper functioning of almost every system in the human body. Several studies suggest that it also plays a role in anxiety and stress.
If we suffer from a magnesium deficiency, we experience a variety of symptoms. Symptoms that may indicate a magnesium deficiency are a decreased cognitive ability, difficulty with information processing, increased aggression, mood swings, fatigue, sleeping problems and a lack of concentration. If we suffer from any of these symptoms, a magnesium supplement may help. But magnesium is also found in food.
When choosing a magnesium supplement, pick a variant with a high bioavailability: magnesium malate, magnesium taurate, magnesium bisglycinate, magnesium citrate, magnesium gluconate or magnesium lactate. Avoid low bioavailability magnesium supplements; magnesium oxide, magnesium chloride, magnesium hydroxide and magnesium sulfate
Soothing Valium substitute #3 – L-theanine
In the past, a well-known remedy for stress was putting our legs up for a while and enjoy a cup of green tea. Green tea owes its relaxing effect to the amino acid L-theanine. This amino acid causes an increase in alpha brain waves, and thus relaxation.
Natural calmer #4: Valerian
Valerian has been used as a medicine for thousands of years. It reduces anxiety, lowers stress and ensures that we can relax. Studies suggest that valerian has a positive effect on people who struggle with depression as well.
Natural alternative to Valium #5: Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha means ‘smell of the horse' and this herb is used in the ancient Ayurvedic system of medicine. Studies show that ashwagandha lowers stress levels and calms anxiety. Additionally, it helps with sleeplessness and might be beneficial if you suffer from nervous depletion. It might also lower inflammation. But more clinical studies need to be done.
What is your favorite natural substitute to Valium?
There are many other natural tranquilizers, such as chamomile, lavender and CBD oil. What is your favorite alternative to Valium? What have you tried, what worked and what didn't work? And what else do you do to feel calm and to manage stress in your life? We would love to hear from you in the comments!
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for inspirational purposes only. It's no substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional if you have questions. A supplement serves as a supplement and is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.
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