Non-Prescription Options You've Found Helpful

[Magna]

Sorry to revive such an old thread, but I've been dealing with a heightened awareness of severe anxiety lately. Was thinking about using valerian in some form to deal with it; ashwagandha does not do any favors for me & I'm not legally able to take some of the classic pharmaceutical medications without great expense and risk.

My career path falls under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Act and FMCSA regulations forbid drivers from taking certain drugs. Testing is as thorough as it is serious.

Anyone finding valerian functional still?

Yes, it has a level of efficacy that can be noticed. You can make your own tincture by pulverizing the dried root and soaking it in a neutral grain alcohol (spirit) and then filtering that out into a dropper bottle. Many people find the smell of Valarian Root similar to smelly feet. There's a shared odor molecule between the two.

I don't know that I'd use it to curb anxiety though, while driving; it has a sedative quality to it.

Have you tried St. John's Wort? It does have a side effect of increased photosensitivity of the skin (sunburn more easily), but has been scientifically proven, to my knowledge to help people with anxiety and depression.