I recently stopped taking my anxiety medication with the help of my naturopathic doctor.

Mental Health/Mood & Stress

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Q. Dear Terry, “I recently stopped taking my anxiety medication with the help of my naturopathic doctor. I started counseling and made some other healthy changes. Overall, I feel like I’m doing pretty good, but some days my anxiety seems to be worse than others. What do you suggest for anxiety?” –Sydney K., Albuquerque, NM

A. Dear Sydney, According to the National Institute of Mental Health, it’s estimated that over 20% of adults have issues with anxiety. And unfortunately, these numbers are on the rise.

Whether you suffer from occasional or frequent anxiety, I would recommend adding narrow-leaved coneflower (Echinacea angustifolia) to your daily regimen. Researchers have discovered that compounds in this unique type of coneflower can help reduce anxiety as effectively as certain prescription medications, without the side effects. These compounds have been shown to affect certain brain receptors, which helps to instill a sense of calm and relaxation.

Clinical research shows fast-acting results. In one study, the special extract of E. angustifolia was tested with individuals experiencing increased anxiety and tension. After just one day, the participants noticed a reduction in stress and anxiety, with an even greater reduction in just seven days.

I would take 20 to 40 mg once or twice per day of the coneflower extract. This ingredient is safe enough to be taken daily to help prevent anxiety as well.  Make sure you look for a clinically studied, narrow-leaved coneflower root extract standardized for echinacoside and an alkamide profile in the right ratio to reduce anxiety.

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally