For individuals who experience flight anxiety, air travel can be an incredibly stressful experience. The fear of flying can be overwhelming from the moment they enter the airport to the moment they exit the plane. Especially if you are a business person who already has job related stress to deal with. While prescription drugs are often used to manage anxiety symptoms, they can have various unwanted side effects and risks. Of course this is just my opinion, and a professional’s opinion may be better for you. That said, let’s have a look at some of these natural solutions.
Lion’s Mane: A Natural Anxiety Buster
Lion’s Mane is a natural supplement that has gained popularity recently for its anxiety-reducing properties. It is a type of mushroom that has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its medicinal benefits.
Studies have shown that Lion’s Mane may help lower anxiety by making the brain make more neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. These hormones are essential for controlling mood, and insufficient can make you anxious or sad.
In addition to its anxiety-reducing properties, Lion’s Mane has also been shown to have several other health benefits, such as promoting brain function, boosting immunity, and reducing inflammation.
When incorporating Lion’s Mane into your daily routine, there are a few options to consider. It can be taken in supplement form as a powder or capsule. It can also be consumed as tea or added to food as a culinary ingredient.
How to Choose a Lion’s Mane Supplement
If you decide to take Lion’s Mane in supplement form, choosing a high-quality product from a reputable brand is essential. Look for a supplement that contains a high percentage of beta-glucans, which are the compounds in Lion’s Mane that contribute to its medicinal properties. Consider choosing a supplement that has been certified organic to ensure that it is free from harmful chemicals.
Even though Lion’s Mane is considered safe for most people, it may combine with some medicines or cause side effects in some people. As such, it is recommended that you speak with a healthcare professional before taking Lion’s Mane or any other natural supplement.
GABA: Calming the Nerves Naturally
Gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter that works to inhibit the nervous system’s activity, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. GABA is produced naturally in the brain but can also be enhanced through dietary and lifestyle choices.
Low amounts of GABA have been linked to anxiety disorders like flight anxiety. This means it could be a target for natural medicines to treat anxiety.
While GABA supplements are available, there are also natural food sources that can help increase GABA levels in the body. These include fermented foods such as kimchi and sauerkraut, green tea, and cocoa.
People who want to increase the amount of GABA in their bodies could also use GABA pills. These vitamins come in different forms, such as pills, powders, and potions. Before taking any new vitamins, you should talk to your doctor or nurse to ensure they are safe and that you are taking the right amount.
While GABA may be a promising natural alternative for flight anxiety, it’s important to note that more research is needed to understand its effectiveness fully. Additionally, it may not work for everyone and should not be used as a substitute for professional mental health treatment.
Ashwagandha: A Herbal Solution for Flight Anxiety
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is a popular herb in Ayurvedic medicine, a traditional medicine originating from India. The herb has been used for centuries for its stress-relieving and calming properties and has gained popularity in recent years as a natural remedy for anxiety.
Scientists have conducted several studies to investigate the efficacy of Ashwagandha in reducing anxiety symptoms, with promising results. One study found that Ashwagandha was as effective as the anti-anxiety medication lorazepam in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression without the adverse side effects commonly associated with prescription drugs.
Ashwagandha is thought to work by lowering cortisol, a hormone linked to stress, and putting the body’s physiological processes back in order. It can also help the body deal with stress better because it has adaptogenic qualities.
There are several ways to incorporate Ashwagandha into a daily routine for maximum benefits. The herb is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and liquid extracts. It can be taken as a supplement, added to food or drinks, or used in topical applications.
It’s important to note that while Ashwagandha is generally considered safe for most people, it may interact with certain medications or medical conditions.
Understanding Flight Anxiety
Do you experience anxiety before and during a flight? You’re not alone. In fact, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, around 6.5% of the US population experiences aviophobia or the fear of flying. Flight anxiety can manifest in multiple ways, including sweating, rapid heart rate, trembling, and nausea.
Understanding the underlying causes of flight anxiety is essential to finding practical solutions. For some, the fear may stem from a lack of control. For others, it may be triggered by past negative experiences with air travel or fear of turbulence and crashes. For some it may be related to another anxiety or sleep apnea. Regardless of the cause, the impact of flight anxiety can be significant and significantly affect one’s quality of life.
Fortunately, there are plenty of practical solutions to managing flight anxiety. By identifying your triggers and symptoms, you can take steps to alleviate your fears and make air travel a more pleasant experience.
More Natural Alternatives
| Natural Remedy | Description |
|---|---|
| L-theanine | A naturally occurring amino acid found in green tea that helps people relax and feel less worried. |
| Passion Flower | A plant-based supplement shown to alleviate anxiety and improve sleep quality. |
| Valerian Roots | A natural sedative that calms nerves and helps with sleep disorders. |
| Deep Breathing and Meditation | Adding techniques like deep breathing and meditation to your daily routine can also help reduce anxiety. |
FAQs
Are natural anxiety remedies safe to use during air travel?
Yes, most natural remedies for nervousness are safe to use on an airplane. But it would be best to talk to a doctor before taking a new supplement or plant remedy. This is especially true if you already have a health problem or are taking prescription drugs.
Do natural anxiety remedies work as well as prescription drugs?
Even though natural remedies for anxiety may not work for everyone, studies have shown that some natural remedies can help manage stress and prescription drugs. Also, many people prefer natural treatments because they usually have fewer side effects and don’t make you want to use them all the time.
How do I know which natural anxiety remedy is right for me?
Choosing the right natural anxiety remedy can depend on your needs and preferences. I started with Lion’s Mane, which created a nice, ongoing “base” for improving cognitive functions, including reducing anxiety. After a few months, I dove into more specifics with GABA and Ashwagandha. Now I take them all together. Depending on the situation at hand. Lion’s Mane will always be my ‘base’ for sure.
How long do the effects of natural anxiety remedies last?
The effects can last for different amounts of time based on the medicine and the person. Some treatments may help immediately, while others may need to be taken regularly over a more extended period to work correctly.
Can I take natural anxiety remedies with other medications?
It’s always best to talk to your personal or family doctor before moving forward.
Are there any potential side effects of natural anxiety remedies?
Even though natural remedies have fewer side effects than prescription drugs on average, they can still cause adverse effects in some people. Typical adverse effects may include nausea, vertigo, and migraines. It is essential to read and adhere to all dosage instructions meticulously and to discontinue use in the event of adverse effects.
Can natural anxiety remedies be combined with other anxiety-management techniques?
Natural anxiety remedies can be used with other anxiety-management techniques, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and exercise, to provide maximum benefits.
Can natural anxiety remedies be used for long-term anxiety management?
Yes, some natural remedies can be used for long-term anxiety management. However, consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to ensure safe and effective use.
