Tag Archives: alternative

Acupuncture and electro-acupuncture are beneficial for generalized anxiety

Acupuncture and acupressure are widely used to treat anxiety. Different acupuncture points are beneficial in generalized anxiety and panic attacks. A review of controlled studies and published case reports on acupuncture as a treatment of anxiety and depressed mood found … Continue reading

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Regular massage reduces the severity of chronic generalized anxiety

Massage is widely used to achieve feelings of deep relaxation and reduced anxiety. The subjective physical and psychological benefits of massage are difficult to quantify in controlled trials however anecdotal evidence, a long-standing history of the widespread use of massage … Continue reading

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The amino acid 5-HTP may be as effective as medications for generalized anxiety

L-tryptophan and 5-hydroxy-tryptophan (5-HTP) are amino acids widely used to treat generalized anxiety. Both amino acids are necessary for making serotonin, a neurotransmitter that has a central role in the regulation of mood and anxiety. More studies have been done … Continue reading

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Dietary changes reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety and panic

Generalized anxiety frequently accompanies a condition called reactive hypoglycemia, in which blood sugar levels drop to abnormal low levels following consumption of a large amount of sugar. Individuals who experience heightened anxiety caused by hypoglycemia benefit reduced carbohydrate intake, high … Continue reading

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Very weak electrical current is an effective treatment of generalized anxiety

Very weak electrical current known as micro-current electrical stimulation or cranio-electrotherapy stimulation has been established as an effective treatment of generalized anxiety. A meta-analysis of studies comparing this approach with a sham treatment (ie, electrodes attached to the head but … Continue reading

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Meditation and mindfulness training reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety

Meditation practices are widely employed to reduce anxiety and to maintain optimal psychological and spiritual health. Meditation has been extensively studied as a treatment of anxiety. Beneficial physiological effects of meditation include decreased oxygen consumption, respiratory rate and blood pressure, … Continue reading

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Yoga for generalized anxiety, phobias and obsessive-compulsive disorder

Research studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that the regular practice of Yoga is beneficial for individuals who experience symptoms of generalized anxiety. The regular practice of specific yogic postures or breathing techniques change brain activity resulting in a state of … Continue reading

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Relaxation techniques for generalized anxiety

Widely used relaxation techniques include sustained deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and systematic desensitization. The physiology of relaxation has been investigated for many decades. According to one model anxiety is associated with muscle tension, and is reduced by … Continue reading

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L-theanine is an effective treatment of anxiety and does not cause drowsiness

Green tea contains the amino acid L-theanine. The anti-anxiety benefits of L-theanine are achieved through enhanced alpha brain wave activity and increased synthesis of the brain’s principle inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA. Increased levels of GABA affect other brain neurotransmitter levels resulting … Continue reading

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Kava Kava (Piper methysticum) is an effective treatment of generalized anxiety

In traditional Polynesian cultures Kava is used for ceremonial purposes and as an inebriant. In contrast to prescription sedative-hypnotic medications (e.g. lorazepam and diazepam), when Kava is taken at recommended doses (typically between 60 and 300mg/day) patients do not experience … Continue reading

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