Herbal Alternatives to Meds?

[MrsClaus]

What are alternatives to meds such as valium?

 

[summerthyme]

Seriously... nothing. And anyone who has taken benzodiazepines on a regular basis almost certainly has at least some physical dependence, and should NOT stop cold turkey without medical supervision.

For someone who takes it only occasionally to address anxiety, you could try herbs... possibly a combination of Virginia skullcap, Valerian and passionflower woukd be a good start.

We've used a tincture of Virginia skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) for years for anxiety and stress. It's actually very effective, but comparing it to valium is like comparing a BB gun with a 30-30...

Summerthyme

 

[jazzy]

that makes alot od sense. im thinking what is the need for valium? stress, anxiety, help over coming trauma of some kind? so many things and so many levels causing need.

i like skullcap also, and have used L-tryptophan and cbd oil. a lot of folks get relief from the cbd oil. i have some passionflower tincture i made but forgot about, i need to try that.

 

[Conrad Nimikos]

bj ?

 

[AlaskaSue]

It's a good topic. My only Rx is my thyroid med...I'd love to find out if there is anything to supplement it. I take levothyroxine daily without fail. Used to use Armour but the doc nixed that one. I'd just like to have some kind of backup if such a thing can be done. At least I still have a thyroid.

 

[nomifyle]

Valerin root gives a calming effect. I use to use it for a sleep aid, but I thought that I built up a resistence to it.

Judy

 

[summerthyme]

Valerin root gives a calming effect. I use to use it for a sleep aid, but I thought that I built up a resistence to it.

Judy

You can build tolerance or resistance to almost anything, and meds or herbs which act as central nervous system depressants tend to have that problem for almost everyone. The best way yo avoid it is to take (herbs OR Rx meds) stuff for sleep or to help you relax as infrequently as possible. At the least, skip a night (or day) once or twice a week. And if you find yourself taking more for the same effect... talk to your doctor or reevaluate your regimen...

Summerthyme

 

[moldy]

Herbs are like meds....they don't always act the same on different people. If I use chamomile or valerian, it works like ritalin for me. Not hyper, just very focused. To relax, I make a tea with skullcap, wood betony, peppermint, lavender, and passionflower.

 

[TammyinWI]

I recommend this: