Fear, Worry, Anxiety, and Anxiety Disorders

To avoid confusion, I want to begin by defining these four states of mind. Fear, worry,  anxiety, and anxiety disorders.  I do not want to be talking about oranges and you thinking that I am talking about lemons.  When something like that happens, a misunderstanding occurs.

Fear

Gavin DeBecker in his book, The Gift of Fear, defines fear as a signal of real and imminent danger. He says that unless your dreaded outcome can reasonably be linked to pain (a lot of it) or death, it isn’t really a signal of danger.  It cannot rightly be called fear. It is more properly called anxiety or worry.  Energy classes that I have participated in or taught, have brought home to me the differences between real fear and the “fears” I sometimes let rule my life.

Genuine fear is a friend. When we feel fear we can know that there is some reason for it. Our intuition has decoded something of importance. What is it? We need to look until we find it so that we can respond properly. Also, making abilities, only work well when we have learned to tell true fear from its counterpart—worry.

Worry

Let’s talk for a moment about worry. Worry is a counterfeit of fear. We manufacture worry ourselves for one reason or another. Worry rarely, if ever, offers solutions.  Clear thinking is interrupted by worry.  Time is wasted by worrying.  Our lives are shortened as we spend precious time worrying.  It is interesting to note that the words anxiety and worry both stem from words that mean “to choke.”   Worrying can, literally, choke the joy out of our lives.

Worrying is stressful! Certainly, the stress of worrying distracts us from finding answers. Isn’t it strange how we rarely consider the positive possibilities of our situation during a worry session?

What would happen if, instead of worrying, we spent our time looking for favorable outcomes to the things we typically worry about? If we can’t see a favorable outcome, we are not likely to achieve one!  Perhaps our looking for a positive outcome might just send out enough positive energy to bring better things to pass.

Can we acknowledge that worrying is a choice? What would happen if we applied all that energy and creative genius differently in our lives? To use our creative energy productively is also a choice. So why, then, do we worry? If worrying is a choice we are choosing to make so often, we must have some reason to do so.

It might be a valuable exercise to ask ourselves why we worry. How is our worry compensating us? Is our worry stressing us needlessly? How is worrying keeping us stuck right where we are whether we like being there or not?

Possible Reasons Why We Worry:

• We worry to avoid change or the taking of responsibility
• If we feel completely powerless in a situation, perhaps worry is a way to feel like we are doing something. Nearly always, prayer would be a better choice!
• Worry can feel like a valid connection to another person. I am sure that you have heard this phrase yourself.  “We only worry about them because we love them.” Worry is a poor substitute for love or for actions taken in love.
• Do we use worry as a protection against future disappointment? Worrying about something before it happens really doesn’t lessen the sting when (and if) it really does happen. Of all the reasons to worry, this one makes the least sense.  Just in case I am going to feel bad tomorrow, I choose to feel bad today, also.  What kind of sense does that make?
• Worry really isn’t a magic amulet. We think that it must be because most of the things we worry about never happen, right? In a convoluted sort of way, this is often true. If we thought the thing that we were worried about was really going to happen—if we actually feared the outcome –  we would most likely take action. We would do something constructive about it rather than just sit there worrying!

Making the Decision to Live Without Worry

There will be both blue skies and gray skies in all of our lives. Fear will come and get our attention if we need to take action. Well, this will happen unless we have made it a habit to worry about everything, call it fear and the pretty much ignore it. If it is not something to really be feared, let’s choose to set our counterfeit “fear” aside. Let’s not confuse worry with fear so that we fail to act when we need to.  Let’s not worry needlessly. Needless worry creates anxiety and anxiety can consume our lives.  Essential oils, herbal formulations, and homeopathic remedies can assist us in finding discernment and peace of mind.  They really can help us set needless worry, and the anxiety it produces, aside.

Anxiety

Fear and anxiety are part of life. We might feel anxious before a test or when faced with a problem at work. We might feel anxiety—or even fear—if we must walk alone down a dark street at night. This kind of occasional anxiety is perfectly normal. In fact, it may even prove useful.  This kind of anxiety can make us more alert and more careful. It can keep us safe.

This type of anxiety usually ends soon after we are out of—or have responded to—the situation that created the anxiety.

But for millions of people in the United States, the anxiety does not go away when the crisis has passed. The anxiety may even get worse over time. The feelings and symptoms can interfere with daily activities. Job performance and satisfaction suffer in the face of the strong emotions. These people are suffering from more than a little bit of anxiety.  They are experiencing an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are among the most common psychiatric illnesses of our time. They affect both children and adults. An estimated 40 million American adults suffer from one anxiety disorder or another.

The line between anxiety disorders and everyday stress can be unclear.  The simple chart below points out a few of the differences.  The differences, as you will see, are mostly in the degree of reaction.  Why is it important to understand which is which and what it all means?  Does it really matter if it is everyday stress or an anxiety disorder? I think that it surely does!

You can’t fix a problem you don’t know that you have!

Once you recognize that your panic and anxiety is over-the-top, you can begin to seek the answers you need to improve your life.  Taking responsibility and looking for answers becomes the first step in the healing journey.

Life in Boxes

According to our definitions, fear is our friend.  Worry is a choice. Anxiety is something that we all suffer.  Anxiety disorders cripple lives and rob them of joy.

Oh, that life was as simple as putting things in boxes like those above makes it seem!  But life, also does not fit neatly into boxes.   All of life is a continuum.  One state of being slides seamlessly into another.  Too often, we don’t even realize that this sliding is happening.  We “fear” things based on past experiences that are not likely to be a part of today.  We choose to worry.  That worry becomes the focus of our lives.  It morphs into anxiety.  Anxiety becomes a way of life.  Eventually, the anxiety becomes severe enough to border on one anxiety disorder or another.  Sometimes, the only difference between everyday anxiety and an anxiety disorder is the degree to which the anxiety impacts our life.

Resilience

Health, by my definition, is being able to do whatever I want without giving my physical body much thought.  My physical body should always be able to do what I require of it.  Mental health, for me, is defined in much the same way.  The word resilience speaks to my soul.  I don’t expect life to move along smoothly, never attempting to knock me down.  I understand that all relationships will not run smoothly, no matter how much I want them to.  But I do expect to be able to come to grips with reality.  I expect to get back up and be happy and productive again following a rough patch.  When I am mentally and spiritually healthy, I find that I am able to do this rather quickly.

Causes and Manifestations of Anxiety and Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety can have many causes.  It can also impact the physical body in different ways.  It is as though we all have our own unique areas of susceptibility to stress.  You may internalize your stress in your digestive system.  Perhaps, it is my kidneys that are impacted most.  Or, perhaps, it is my damaged kidney that is contributing to my fear and anxiety.  Perhaps, you hold your stress in your neck and shoulders.  There are many good books available about emotions and the physical body.  I love them.  But, unfortunately, the physical body’s connection to emotions does not fit into neat little boxes all of the time, either!

The herbal remedy or the essential oil that would be best for you will, very much, reflect your personal susceptibilities.  Homeopathic remedies, not so much.  Homeopathic remedies work “whole body and spirit” as a matter also.  I believe that essential oils and herbals do this also, in reality.  It is only the understanding of how they do that which has been lost to us.

Nutritional deficiencies

I believe that essential oils provide nutrients to our bodies just as herbal preparations do.  However, information on this topic is still pretty new and not readily available.  Herbs, undoubtedly, are powerhouses of nutrition!  Herbs can provide trace minerals.  They also provide those very important and often missing B-complex vitamins.  A few herbs even contain very usable proteins.  Vitamin C is found throughout the herbal kingdom.  Herbal Vitamin C does not stress the kidneys at all.  (KNA, MIN, BHM – almost every herb and herbal formula, provides these vital nutrients.  What you need most depends on where the damages to your own body are found.)

Hypothyroidism

Both herbs (KNA, TY) and Essential Oils (^LeEndoRelief and many others) provide nutrients that restore balance to thyroid function.

Adrenal Fatigue

 This is, too often, a chicken or the egg situation.  Which came first?  The chicken or the egg?  Stress and anxiety trash the adrenals.  Adrenal fatigue multipiles anxiety and anxiety disorders many times over.  ( MIN, AD, ^LeEndoRelief essential oil blend are just a few possible remedies.)  Our Adrenal Fatigue article can be found here.  We have also done a live discussion here.

A Toxic or Clogged Liver

 Liver issues can seriously impact the digestive system.  A compromised liver will eventually restrict uptake of nutrients.  Liver malfunction also interferes with the normal workings of the hypothalamus.  Hypothalamus dysfunction will ALWAYS result in sleep disorders.  Lack of sleep will produce anxiety.

Hormones

What is often seen as a bad temper, irritability, or mood swings is too many times, nothing more than a hormone imbalance.  This is just as true – or especially true – of men.  I don’t know if we can rightly call it menopause but it is certainly very real.  The emotionals, for the most part, seem to be tied to what men see as the most productive years of their lives slipping into the past.  Perhaps, some of their goals and aspirations are still unfulfilled.  (Herbs:  MH, MW, YW, KNA and Essential Oils ^LeEndoRelief, ^LeBalance, ^LeWoman Wise, to name just a few, should prove helpful.)

Allergies

Allergic reactions can take many forms as some aspect or another of the bodily function goes into hyper-drive.  Sometimes, many times, in fact, an allergic response will manifest as anxiety and irritability.  This scenario happens far more times than we realize, I am sure.  (Homeopathic Allergy Relief combinations are very important and are discussed in great depth here, ^LeEndoRelief, chamomile, gingergrass, melissa essential oils – again to name just a few can be helpful.  Energy work targeting allergies has produced astonishing results in my own life.)

Blood Sugar Issues

Whenever I have left sugary treats alone for awhile and then consume some, I find I am enveloped in inexplicable sadness and melancholy.  I find that I worry and feel anxious about things that weren’t bothering before that candy bar or ice cream treat.  (Herbs to consider for blood sugar issues include  Cascara/Juniper with Raspberry/Myrrh and ^LeEndoRelief essential oil blend, for sure.  ^LeEndoRelief is the “fix” but dill essential oil can temporarily stabilize blood sugar.  There are many other valuable herbs and essential oils, also.)

Please keep an eye out for these conditions as I describe various herbs and essential oils throughout the rest of this article.

Alternative Remedies and Anxiety

Can an herb, an essential oil, or a homeopathic remedy really help us regain perspective when we are under serious stress?  My life’s experience has shown me that they can!  I have seen this in the lives of others, as well.  Perhaps, you have too.

Herbal Aids for General Anxiety

Herbs are nutrition!  And an ounce of prevention is always worth a pound of cure!  Let herbal teas and herbal remedies be a part of your life every day.  You will find, over time and as nutritional gaps are filled, that you handle stress much better than before.  Anxieties will lessen.  You will have become more resilient. Life will be sweeter all around.  Stress increases the need for most nutrients.  Herbal teas and tinctures are a good way to replenish those essential nutrients.

The herbs discussed in this section are very nutritious and very mild.  The stronger herbal nervines will be discussed in the follow-up article to this one where we will discuss Anxiety Disorders in more detail.

Ginseng

Reach for Ginseng first when the mind and the body are under stress.  Ginseng is noted for slowing the effects of both mental and physical fatigue.  These benefits were first shown in animal studies.  Then double-blind clinical trials in humans showed similar results.  Studies show that ingesting ginseng consistently lengthens the time to physical fatigue during endurance tests.  Mental acuity and the ability to work longer were documented among radio operators.   Stimulant herbs are like stepping on your gas pedal.  The effects of ginseng are more like giving your entire engine a tune-up.

There are several species of ginseng.  There are also two ways ginseng is processed.  Ginseng is discussed in more detail in the book, Butterfly Miracles with Herbal Remedies.  A species of plant, Eleutherococcus sentiocosus, is also referred to as Siberian ginseng.  This plant is not a ginseng at all. In fact, it has a very different chemical composition and contains no ginsenosides.  Clinical trials have shown that these two very different plants have similar healing properties, however.  I believe this shows us, once again, that herbs work because they provide nutrition.  How much does “chemical constituents” and “active ingredients” affect the efficacy of herbal preparations after all?

There is one notable difference between these two herbs.  Panax varieties prove more useful when the body and mind are already showing damage from stress.  Eleuthero, on the other hand, substantially increases the body and mind’s ability to withstand stressful situations.  I like using the two varieties together.  I am acting on the assumption that I already have body systems that are showing signs of current and past stress.  The Panax is for those systems.  The systems that are in good working order receive Eleuthero to build up their resilience to future stress.

Motherwort

Motherwort is a mild nervine herb with some interesting hormonal balancing properties thrown in.  This herb is also a cardiovascular tonic.  The combining of motherwort with passion flower makes an excellent substitute for lady slipper herb.  Lady slipper has been unavailable (except in homeopathic form) for many years.  Motherwort should be used cautiously and very sparingly during pregnancy.

Damiana

Damiana is a versatile and, in my opinion, under-appreciated herb.  As do most herbal healers, damiana can act as a mild sedative or an effective stimulant.  Its action in the body is totally dependent on the needs of that particular body.  The mild sedative/calming action of damiana lies at the core of its effectiveness.  Even when using it to stimulate the endocrine system, damiana lifts the mood.   The lifting of gray clouds of anxiety and depression is a wonderful benefit of taking this herb.  Damiana is regarded as an essential herb for men.  It targets the male reproductive system and the prostate gland, in particular.  Damiana is an excellent herb for women, as well.

KNA and MIN formulas

These two formulations, KNA and MIN, are meant to provide the trace minerals that are so necessary to good physical and mental health.  KNA – Kelp, Nettles, and Alfalfa – contains all of the identified trace minerals that are necessary to good health.  They are there in adequate amounts and in excellent proportions to one another.  In addition, alfalfa contains some very usable proteins.  This fact is of particular importance to vegans and vegetarians.  MIN contains these same three herbs.  (Dulse instead of kelp, which is almost the same thing.) MIN makes an excellent daily mineral supplement.  It is safe to use – in fact, recommended – during pregnancy and when nursing.  MIN is prepared in glycerin.  It even tastes reasonably good – for an herbal preparation.

AD (formerly called Adrenal Toner for good reason)

The adrenal glands produce the hormones needed when we are under stress.  They also produce hormones that prepare us to meet situations that require quick and appropriate responses.   Unfortunately, stress is very hard on the adrenal glands.

The adrenal glands are vital to immune function.  They produce hormones which are important to the metabolism of carbohydrates.  The adrenals also impact the regulation of blood sugar levels.  The regulation of electrolyte and water balance in the body and the regulation of blood pressure are also accomplished, at least in part, by the adrenals. 

Ginseng is a key element of the AD formula.  Astragalus, also an ingredient, is noted for its anti-oxidant properties.  Astragalus also helps rebuild damaged immune systems.  Ginger acts on the digestive system in much the same way that cayenne acts on the bloodstream.  Licorice root is one of the most overlooked herbs in God’s pharmacy.  Licorice root is beneficial for many bodies systems.  It brings relief from a great many ailments.  Licorice root contains many anti-depressant compounds, as well.  (Each of these herbs is discussed in more detail in the book referred to above.)  

KT and KB formulas

The adrenals and the kidneys are closely connected.  Stressed kidneys contribute to fearful personalities.  The person may fear many things and find faith hard to hold onto.   Perhaps, they may be afraid to move forward in life, but be afraid not to at the same time. Fearful personalities – living in constant anxiety and fear – eventually stress the adrenal glands.

MH – A Nervine and Hormone Balancer Formula for Men

MH provides minerals that are needed to handle daily stress.  I love this formula, but I often recommend supplementing zinc along with it.  Butterfly Express carries an excellent liquid zinc mineral.  Cayenne contains zinc, but not in sufficient quantities if a deep deficiency exists.

Nervine Herbs and Herbal Formulas

NVC – formerly called Children’s Nervine

This is a mild enough herbal formula to be useful for colicky, or just plain cranky, children.  However, it contains many of the best gentle but effective nervine herbs available.  Besides calming the nerves, NVC stimulates the body’s defenses against colds, flu, fevers and the like.  This formula contains chamomile flowers, passion flowers, catnip, and a tiny bit of peppermint.  Peppermint, in small quantities, really is a relaxing herb.   (Other, stronger herbal formulas will be discussed under Anxiety Disorders later on.)

Herbal Medicine and the Medical World

The Mayo Clinic website has an article entitled “Herbal Treatment for Anxiety:  Is it Effective?”  The article begins by saying: “Several herbal remedies have been studied as a treatment for anxiety, but more research is needed to understand the risks and benefits.”   Being a medical website, every herb mentioned in guardedly favorable terms is summed up by unsubstantiated cautions.  Nevertheless, I always find it interesting that the Mayo Clinic so often includes information about herbs and essential oils as potential medicines.

Passion Flower

The Mayo Clinic says, “A few small clinical trials suggest that passion flower might help with anxiety.  Passion flower is generally considered safe when taken as directed, but some studies found it can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion.”  Passion flower has held a place in my herbal repertory for many years.  I have used it singly and in formulations.   I have seen improved sleep patterns as the nerves relax.  There is never any dizziness accompanying these favorable results.  Without a doubt, passion flower does not cause confusion – ever.  Passion flower is one of my favorite herbs!  I follow sites that report on reliable studies concerning herbs.  These absurd claims for passion flower are without foundation.  The Mayo Clinic does not attempt to provide information about any studies at all.

Valerian

Quoting the Mayo Clinic again, “In some studies, people who used Valerian reported less anxiety and stress.  In other studies, people reported no benefit.”  Valerian is an amazing herb.  It is a very strong nervine.  It would be very rare indeed for a person to feel nothing after ingesting it!  Valerian acts both as a pain reliever and a mild sedative.  This herb is unique in that a few (very few) people display a marked opposite reaction to it.  They become agitated and irritable rather than calmer.  I have seen this reaction – more than once, in fact.  Lavender oil, especially in a bath, seems to put things back to rights.

Taking Herbal Advice from Medical Sources

Why do I include these statements of the Mayo Clinic in this article?  I do so to make a few points.  I think that they are important points.

#1 – If you want to learn about herbs, ask an herbalist.  Buy an herbal book. Educate yourself.

#2 – If you want to know about prescription or non-prescription medication, consult a Physician’s Desk Reference.  A Physician’s Desk Reference will tell you the possible side effects of the medication.  You will be unpleasantly surprised at the length of the list with each medication. A Physician’s Desk Reference will also tell you what medications to avoid taking at the same time as other medications.  Doctors should tell you this kind of thing.  Doctors should know this kind of thing.  I know some very good doctors.  I know that they try very hard to keep up with information about medications.  To do so is very well nigh to impossible, however.  There are so many medications and so little time.  There are so many new medications coming out all the time.

#3 – MDs and medical websites are often free with their opinions about herbs.  Their opinions are rarely accurate or helpful!  It is nice, however, to see prominent sites and prominent people giving herbs a little bit of credence.

#4 – Please remember that most clinical trials of herbs are using isolated constituents.  In other words, only parts of the plant, separated from the other parts in a laboratory.  That part has been isolated, pulverized, exposed to light and air and, as a result of all this, chemically altered until it is more drug than herb!  The tests are conducted using this drug material.  Side-effects turn up because all drugs have side-effects!

Essential Oils for Stress, Worry, and General Anxiety

There are no essential oils that affect only the physical body.  ALL essential oils have an impact on the emotions and on the mind.  Many – a great many – calm us and relieve anxiety.  I will mention a few here but will leave an extended discussion of some of the more dramatic ones for later with the Anxiety Disorders presentation  It is pretty obvious when I have become tense or anxious at work.  When I look around, I will find a diffuser on my desk, happily putting its calming aroma into the air.  I am grateful for employees who care for me in this way!

^LeTranquility

If you have only one essential oil for anything anxiety related, it should be ^LeTranquility.  This is one of the “big guns” for stress and anxiety. This is true whether the anxiety is mild or very deep.  Panic attacks and other anxiety disorders respond to ^LeTranquility, usually very quickly. I have seen this blend, many more times than once, stop a panic attack absolutely cold and completely.  Over the long run, ^LeTranquility helps us build confidence in ourselves.  Panic attacks, and the things that trigger them become less and less a part of our lives when ^LeTranquility becomes a regular part of the day and night.

^LeFortitude

This is one of two Butterfly blends that are created, synergistically, by putting together wonderful blends that have already “mellowed” together.  Four of the blends in this amazing combination are predominantly anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving.  The fifth blend is  ^LeTranquility.  The synergy of this blend (which I didn’t create, I am sorry to say) is amazing!  There cannot possibly be anything better for aches and pains and anxiety following an accident or trauma.   ^LeFortitude will deal with sore or torn muscles and relieve the pain of bruising.  Nerve damage responds quickly to  ^LeFortitude.   This is a perfect blend for sprains, broken bones, sciatica, and any other inflammatory or pain related condition.   ^LeFortitude is effective for all of this while focusing on the emotional aspects of calming and coping with anxiety.

Lavender

One cannot leave Lavender off any list of essential oils for anxiety. Remember, however, that a little bit of Lavender is soothing. Too much can act as a stimulant.  This is especially true with children.  They have so much less body mass.  A drop or two is sufficient.  Please dilute any essential oil well when working with children.

Sandalwood

Until I discovered Osmanthus, Sandalwood was my absolute favorites essential oils.  For the relief of anxiety and the overall improvement of mood, there are no other essential oils quite like it.  As the Butterfly Express T-shirt says, “My good mood is brought to you by Essential Oils!”  Most of the wood oils are centering and grounding to the nervous system.   Rosewood and Palo Santo oils are harvested from the heartwood of the trees.  These two are among the very best of the nervine essential oils.

Neroli and Orange Sweet

These two oils are especially useful for those whose anxiety has made them timid and withdrawn. Programs for eating disorders often make use of both Orange Sweet and Grapefruit. Eating disorders triggered by deep feelings of inadequacy respond particularly well to these two oils. Roughly a third of the Butterfly line of essential oil formulas contain Orange Sweet oil.  The top blends for anxiety include ^LeBeloved, ^LeHeartSong, ^LeKey to My Heart, ^LeKindred Spirit, ^LeMoonlight, ^LeQuiet Essence, ^LeSolitude, and ^LeTranquility.  Some of these will be discussed further, later in this article and in the Anxiety Disorders article.

^LeAmbition does not contain Neroli or Orange Sweet.  It does, however, contain Grapefruit, and Lime.  It would be difficult to remain anxious in the face of these two oils mixed with Lavender, as they are in this blend.

^LeAutumn is another new blend.  You won’t find it listed, yet, in the Butterfly Essential Oil book.  I love this blend!  It is also a perfect example of natural remedies bringing the body into balance.  This blend contains only three essential oils.  One of them is Orange Sweet.  Orange Sweet is a very calming oil.  But the other two essential oils in this blend are Cassia and Coffee.  I expected this blend to produce a bit more stimulation than I might be comfortable with.  Not at all!  In fact, my favorite use for it is to calm me enough to sit still to study or ponder. ^LeAutumn calms me very well, as I want it to.  I find, however, that I am more likely to stay focused – stay awake – and I enjoy my study, reading, or pondering more than usual.

Patchouli

Many people love the aroma of this essential oil.  However, that aroma is not one of my favorites.  Patchouli is, absolutely, one of the best essential oils for the relief of anxiety.  Butterfly blends for anxiety in which Patchouli plays a role include ^LeMoonlight and ^LeTranquility.  ^LeMoonlight is an aphrodisiac. Negative emotions tied to relationships settle down with the use of Patchouli.   ^LeMoonlight is meant to bring us clarity and peace in our closest personal relationship.  ^LeTranquility is, absolutely, the leading essential oil for anxiety and panic attacks.

Galbanum

Several ancient civilizations used Galbanum for nervous tension.  Galbanum soothes the soul.  It brings calmness and a sense of peace with the way things are in our lives.  This peace enables us to better see solutions to problems that can be remedied.  Galbanum adapts itself to the body chemistry of the user more than most essential oils do.  This is true even when Galbanum is only a small part of a blend.  Sandalwood and/or frankincense substantially improve the aroma of Galbanum when blended with it. The only Butterfly blend containing Galbanum is ^LeLife Force.    ^LeLife Force is one of my  ‘go-to’ oils.  This is because it immediately raises the frequency and energy of the body.  Higher overall body frequency makes one better able to cope with stress and stressful situations.

The Chamomiles

As both herbal remedies and essential oils, the Chamomiles are particularly effective for high-strung or hyperactive children. These two essential oils benefit adolescents and adults, as well.  Blends in which Chamomiles are found play amazing roles in relieving anxiety.   German Chamomile is an essential part of that amazing blend, ^LeTranquility.  Roman Chamomile is an essential part of ^LeWhispering Hope.

Benzoin and Vanilla

Benzoin is a resin.  Frankincense, elemi, and myrrh are also resins.  Each of these oils has a calming effect on the nervous system. Benzoin stabilizes essential oils blends, just as it stabilizes emotions.  It has a mildly Vanilla-like aroma.  The aroma of a good Vanilla essential oil is one of the most calming and uplifting of scents.  Vanilla has such a wonderfully calming aroma that even if it had no other therapeutic properties, I would use it every day for the scent alone.

^LeDreams is an excellent example of the calming effects of Benzoin oil in a blend.  ^LeDreams also contains sandalwood, Orange Sweet, and German Chamomile – each anxiety-relieving oils.  ^LeBelieve, whose base note is Vanilla, reduces anxiety very well.   The anxiety that is aggravated or has been brought on by nervous or physical exhaustion dissipates and is soothed by ^LeDreams.  ^LeDreams is particularly appropriate when the anxiety manifests itself in nightmares and bad dreams.  Nightmares in children often respond to ^LeDreams diffused at the bedside.

Anxiety from over-thinking a project responds well to both Benzoin and Vanilla.  ^LeDreams is, therefore, a great oil for calming rampant running thoughts that are keeping us awake at night.

^LeWhispering Hope and ^LeQuiet Essence

These two blends contain St. John’s Wort.  The herbal version merited mention above.  Sometimes, anxiety is the result of nervous system deficiency.  A nervine herbal formula or essential oil can fill the needs of the struggling nervous system.   St. John’s Wort has proven it’s self to be one of the best herbs and essential oils for the nervous system.  ^LeWhispering Hope is particularly useful for anxiety and frustration that is centered on the poor choices of loved ones.  The influence of this blend is very subtle.  It very literally “whispers” its message of hope for the future.   ^LeQuiet Essence also contains St. John’s Wort.

Frankincense and Palo Santo

Frankincense is an excellent anxiety reducer, making ^LeAboutFace a very potent choice for relieving anxiety. The Palo Santo that accompanies the Frankincenses in this blend is considered useful for panic attacks. Palo Santo, anciently, was called Holy Wood.  Frankincense and the ^LeAboutFace blend are more than just band-aids. It almost seems as though Frankincense teaches the nervous system how to respond to stress more appropriately.

Angelica

Angelica essential oil is taken from the root.  The aroma of Angelica certainly reflects its earthy origins.  Angelica is loved by midwives.  It is often used, especially after a difficult labor and birth, to relieve anxiety and calm the mother. While calming the mother, Angelica has the added benefit of encouraging the release of a placenta that is being reluctant to pull away as it should.  Angelica is the base note on which the Butterfly essential oils blends ^LeBenediction, ^LeConnection, ^LeEverlasting, ^LeTrust, and ^LeUnity are built.

Capsicum (Cayenne)

Oddly, there are studies that indicate that Capsicum may relieve anxiety, promote confidence, and help a person be more focused and productive.  Now, to figure out a way to use it!  Capsicum is a very strong and caustic essential oil.  With Capsicum, it must always be remembered that essential oils are extremely concentrated.  Even diluted, Capsicum can burn the skin or cause irritation. I would advise using this one in the blends it is part of.  These blends are ^LeTendaCare, ^LeVisibility, and  ^LeVitality.  These oils are all considered to be very physical in their effects.  Remember, there is no such thing as an essential oil that works only on the physical body.

I formulated ^LeVitality for use with my own heart issues.  First of all,  ^LeVitality settles the fear of having a heart condition.  I can promise you that! Amazing!   ^LeVitality also calmed whatever emotion was contributing to the latest “event” every time for me.  The prolapsing valve has strengthened and life is good again!

^LeIntensity is a fairly new blend in the Butterfly line.  It is fast becoming one of my favorite essential oils.  I use it at least once every single day!

Valerian and Spikenard

Valerian performs well as a nervine in the herbal world.  Spikenard, a similar herb, contains many of the same properties.  However, Spikenard is milder and less likely to produce the opposite reaction of increased tension that is sometimes seen with Valerian.  This opposite reaction is actually quite rare.  Nevertheless, far more Butterfly blends utilize Spikenard rather than Valerian.  Spikenard lends its calming and healing properties to many great Butterfly blends.  One of them, ^LeTurmoil, calms the mind after surgery or traumatic events.  ^LeTurmoil is a very well-done blend!

“Flower” Essential Oils

The flowering tops of their respective plants are the source material for the next few essential oils that I will mention.   We have already mentioned Neroli blossoms and Chamomile Flowers.  Other flower essential oils that are particularly effective for anxiety include Ylang Ylang, Osmanthus, Rose, Rose Geranium, Anthopogan, Catnip, and the Jasmines.

Ylang Ylang – Ylang has a very great affinity for the adrenal glands, the nerves, and the thymus.  Ylang is the top emotional note in a great many of the best blends used for anxiety and depression.  This long list includes ^LeTranquility and ^LeWhispering Hope.

Osmanthus – This is an absolutely delightful oil.  Osmanthus is both fruity and floral and very exotic in its aroma.  The effect of Osmanthus on my own soul is to make me want to be better than I am.  At the same time, it brings me confidence that I can.

^LeCherish

^LeCherish is a very high-frequency blend.  It consists of Osmanthus and Jasmine.  When we first got Osmanthus in at Butterfly, my husband suggested that I blend it with something else so as to make it available AND affordable for customers.  I tried.  I really did.  But Osmanthus just cried out for Jasmine.  Cistus is there to stabilize and keep the blend grounded.  The addition of Cistus didn’t help the price much either, I’m afraid.  Inner courage, clarity of purpose, sensitivity, and compassion are words that define this blend.  The most lovely way to calm down that I can even imagine.

Rose – This essential oil is recognized the world over for calming the spirit. The Rose essential oil always calms emotions.  Anxiety brought on by the heaviness of our responsibilities is the particular venue of rose oil.

Rose Geranium – Discouragement and anxiety because there seems to end to the work required and no way to ever accomplish it all is the special province of Rose Geranium.

Anthopogon – The great strength of Anthopogon is its ability to pull a person immediately into a space of remembering with gratitude.  Can there be any better way to stop a panic attack triggered by thoughts of the past than to remember that there were good things there, as well?  At the very least, there were lessons learned and the love of Heaven through it all.

^LeReconcilliation –  ^LeReconciliation contains three flower oils – Anthopogon, Rose, Ylang Ylang with Vanilla as the base note.  It just doesn’t get any better than that for working with anxiety.

More than a few!

As you can see, my “few” kept growing every time I sat down to work on this article.  Making a list of essential oils for anxiety was almost as stressful as that very stressful question, “Can you please name your 10 favorite essential oils!”  Very difficult to do when you love the personalities of each one so much!  I feel like I am rewriting the essential oil book here because so many essential oils calm the soul.

Homeopathic Remedies

Bach Flower Remedies for Anxiety

Rescue Remedy

There are a few homeopathic remedies that should be available to everyone at all times, in my opinion. The Bach Flower formula commonly called Rescue Remedy is one of these.  Five Flower Formula is another name for this remedy.  This is the first thing I reach for when anything stressful or traumatic in any way is going on.  It works well for both children and adults.  Equally useful for impending shock, an oncoming migraine, a hysterical reaction to a bee sting, exam nerves, fear just before giving a talk or presentation, and just about anything else.

Dr. Edward Bach arranged his “12 Healers” – his Bach Flower remedies – into interesting categories.  Since two of those categories apply to anxiety, I am including a comment or two on those remedies here.

Category #1 – “For Those Who Have Fear”

Rock Rose – This is a true emergency remedy.  Rock rose is useful for cases of all sorts, even when there appears to be no hope of successful resolution.  It will be especially useful if the situation has frightened the person terribly.  Rock rose is an important ingredient in Rescue Remedy.

Mimulus – Mimulus is for the fears of everyday life.  Fear of illness, pain, accidents, poverty, of the dark, of being alone, of impending misfortunes.  The people who need mimulus are those people who quietly and secretly internalize their fear and dread.  They do not freely speak of it to others.

Cherry Plum – Fear of the mind becoming over-strained underlies all of the emotions of cherry plum.  There is always the fear of losing mental capacity.  Additionally, there is the fear that they will act on inappropriate thoughts and impulses that they think are unique to only them.

Aspen – Vague unknown fears.  Vague anxiety and apprehension; nightmares; inability to rely on or even remember the spiritual strengths and experiences of the past. The possibility of something terrible happening terrifies them all of the time.  The person is usually very afraid of telling others about their troubles and fears.  These are the keynotes of aspen.

Red Chestnut – The red chestnut type worries obsessively about other people.  Subsequently, they rarely take proper thought or care for themselves and their own health.

Category #2 “For Those Who Suffer Uncertainty”

Cerato – With cerato, lack of confidence in their own abilities is the emotion behind the anxiety.  The anxiety is most often about performance and ability.  Lacking confidence in themselves, they are constantly seeking advice from others.

Scleranthus – Scleranthus is a remedy for conundrums.  The person feels caught between two choices, neither of which looks appealing.  The result is anxiety because neither answer appears trouble-free.  Quiet desperation follows as they prepare for the worst.  These people are, like the mimulus type, disinclined to share these thoughts with others.

Gentian – Gentian types are easily discouraged.  Small delays or setbacks create either intense anxiety or discouragement.

Gorse – Gorse is not so much about anxiety as it is about very deep hopelessness.  Hopeless that has been a part of a personal life for a long time has, as its companion, a particularly deep anxiety, however.

Hornbeam – Hornbeam’s key emotion is anxiety due to the feeling that they do not have the capacity or the strength, mentally or physically, to do the things required of them daily.  The feeling is of impending and constant failure no matter how hard they are trying.

Wild Oat – Wild oat is for ambitious souls who wish, greatly, to accomplish and experience all that life has to offer.  The anxiety comes because they cannot seem to settle on any course of action.  They want to please but they feel that others will be disappointed in them.

Other Homeopathic Remedies

Arsenicum album 

Ars is a polycrest remedy for anxiety of many types.  The person may become clinging, very anxious, even desperate in their desire for company.  Consequently, they will have a great fear of being left alone or of being alone.  Frequently, almost constantly, they are full of worries about unimportant trifles.  Anxiety about personal health and about the future keynotes ars.  The person manifest deep insecurities and multiple fears.  They fear death, yet are tired of living.  It is likely that they have become very despondent.  Fear of financial loss and poverty are very pronounced.  Fear of disease and fear of catching something from other people is also seen.   Frightening dreams keep their sleep from being restful.  As a result, they wake in the morning to great anxiety and anguish.  An odd note is that the anxiety lessons with motion of any kind.  Exercise is very good for ars people.

Calcarea carbonica

The anxiety of calc centers around responsibilities and duties. Even more than failure, they fear loss of reason and mental capacity.   The person usually becomes increasingly apprehensive as evening approaches.  Heart palpitations result from the anxiety.

Kali phosphoricum

All phosphoricum remedies display some degree of mental and physical prostration.  There will be a great deal of anxiety with the fatigue.  Moreover, the worry that they put themselves through is almost constant.  There are a great many fears.  For example, there may be fear of being alone, of open spaces, of crowds, of coming poor health, or of death.  Frequently, there will be a dread of future events, working themselves up to a high state of nerves before events.  The person will appear very nervous and will startle easily.

Rhus toxicodendron

The anxiety of rhus-t tends to come on at twilight.  The anxiety culminates with great apprehension all during the nighttime hours.  Subsequently, the person has great difficulty even remaining in bed.  The anxiety manifests, most often, as pressure around the heart.  The anxiety centers around the person’s children.

Veratrum

Verat profoundly affects the mind, nerves, heart, blood, blood vessels, and respiration.  Anxiety and panic attacks hit these areas hardest for people who would benefit from verat.  Verat’s picture includes fainting and weakness from strong emotions.  The anxiety usually centers around the person’s position in society.  They feel constantly apprehensive about possible impending misfortunes.

Exercise

Exercise can reduce stress.  In fact, a little bit of exercise is vital for optimum mental health. It may seem strange but exercise really is helpful in restoring energy and the ability to concentrate when stress has brought on mental and physical fatigue.  Stress affects the brain.  Since the brain has many nerve connections, a tired brain affects the entire body within minutes.

Exercise and other physical activities produce endorphins.  Endorphins are chemicals in the brain that are vital to many bodily functions.  These brain chemicals act as natural painkillers.  Endorphins improve sleep.  Improved sleep reduces the effects of stress on the body.  Even one’s self-esteem improves by the production of endorphins.  Even five minutes of exercise can begin to stimulate these anti-anxiety fighting effects.

Scientists studying the effects of exercise on anxiety and depression suggest that a 10-minute walk may be just as effective as an intense 45-minute workout.  Although the effects are considered temporary, studies demonstrate that a brisk walk or other simple activity can create several hours of anxiety relief.  According to scientific studies, physically active people have lower rates of anxiety than do sedentary folks.

Some suggestions for effective anxiety-reducing exercise:

• Make it a goal to exercise at least three to five times a week.
• Aim for consistency rather than trying for perfect workout regimens.  It is far better to exercise for 15-20 minutes every day than to wait for the weekend to do a three or four-hour fitness marathon.
• Find forms of exercise that you find enjoyable.  In my experience, I feel so much better when I exercise, that it is all enjoyable.  Even the hard sweaty types of exercise.
• Many people find it more enjoyable to exercise with an iPod or some such thing to distract them.  This seems to make the time pass more quickly.
• Recruit an “exercise buddy”, if you need to.  This may help you to stick to your commitment to yourself.  Personally, exercise is “my time” and I get a bit testy when other people intervene.  To each their own way of doing.
• Be patient, especially if you mean for your exercise routine to help you get in shape.  If you have been quite sedentary previously, it may take four to eight weeks to feel coordinated or to notice results.

Diet

I can’t quote any studies that prove, unequivocally, that diet can “cure” anxiety.  Common sense, however, tells me that improved nutrition will be more than a little bit helpful.  There is not much point in taking a bunch of nasty-tasting herbs when one’s diet is robbing the body of nutrients.

Vitamin Bandits

There are so many things that “rob” our bodies of nutrients!  I will list only a few here.  For a more comprehensive treatment of this subject, please see pages 10-11 of the book, Butterfly Miracles with Herbal Remedies.

Life’s ordinary circumstances. 

Stress, advancing age, even a slight head cold, lack of sleep, and many other things all require – and use up – nutrients.  The body’s vitamin and mineral stores are constantly in need of replenishing.  In addition, there are some nutrients that the body does not store.  We need to eat those nutrients every day if we wish to have enough of them for good health.

Refined carbohydrates

White sugar, white flour, and many others – have at least the B vitamins leached right out of them during processing.  Some of the B vitamins are necessary to process carbohydrates. When needed, the body pulls them from the liver and other storage areas.  This happens every time you consume these treats.  Refined carbohydrates do not provide nutrients. They rob your body of the nutrients necessary to nerve health.  Using your body’s storage of B vitamins to process refined carbohydrates is a recipe for anxiety and other nerve issues!  Natural carbohydrates come with their own source of B vitamins.  They have no need to pilfer the body’s stores.

Chemicals (including prescription medications)

There are thousands of chemicals used in the productions of our nation’s food supply.  Each and every chemical robs our bodies of nutrients in one way or another.  Some enhance the development of enzymes that destroy certain other vitamins.  Others impair the absorption of nutrients.  After extensive study of the side-effects of prescription meds, I arrived at the conclusion that drug side-effects are, for the most part, nutritional deficiencies.  The side-effect, among all the ones listed, that you will experience will be based on the nutrient you were most deficient in when you took the medication.  Scientific studies have seen shown this same correlation.

Dietary Suggestions for Coping with Anxiety

• Eat a breakfast that includes protein.  Protein stabilizes blood sugar.  I try to make a little bit of protein part of every meal.
• Eat some complex carbohydrates.  There is no need to overdo it but the body requires carbs.  This is especially true of the brain and the nervous system.
• Drink plenty of water.  Even mild dehydration can trigger anxiety.
• Avoid alcohol.  The immediate effect of alcohol may seem to be calming but the long-term effects are edginess and poor sleep habits.
• Avoid caffeine.  Caffeine is a recipe for feeling jittery, losing sleep, and feeling anxious.
• Pay attention to food sensitivities.  In some people, certain foods AND food additives can cause very unpleasant reactions.  These reactions may include irritability, anxiety, or depression.
• Eat for Health.  Eat lots of fresh fruits an vegetables.  Avoid overeating.  Be sure to include foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, on a regular basis.

This is not a comprehensive list.  Also, there are many other suggestions that could have been included.  I do hope that this list gets you thinking about how nutrition is impacting your own mental and emotional health.

In Summary

Living with an anxiety (or an anxiety disorder) is to live life with less joy than one should.  The scriptures tell us that “men are that they might have joy.”  One of my favorite writers and speakers, Truman Madsen says that if we are “missing the joy, we are missing the point.”  Let us each do all we can for ourselves, for our families, and for our friends, to avoid limiting our joy by excessive anxiety and worry.

If you enjoyed this article you may be interested in Anxiety Disorders.