Natural Supplements for Calming Flight Anxiety
Flight anxiety is a common issue that affects millions of travelers every year. While there are various methods to manage this anxiety, natural supplements have emerged as a safe and effective option. This post will explore natural supplements that can help calm flight anxiety.
Natural supplements are gaining popularity due to their minimal side effects and ability to mimic the body’s biological processes. Regarding flight anxiety, these supplements can help regulate mood, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.
Types of Natural Supplements
1. Valerian Root
Valerian Root is derived from the roots of the Valeriana officinalis plant, which has a long history of use in traditional medicine for its calming and soothing properties.
The primary active compounds in Valerian roots are believed to be valerenic acid and valeranone. These compounds interact with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, which promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. By enhancing the activity of GABA, Valerian root can help calm the nervous system, ease tension, and alleviate anxiety-related symptoms.
2. Chamomile
The active components in chamomile, including apigenin and bisabolol, interact with the brain’s GABA receptors, which promote relaxation. By enhancing the effects of GABA, chamomile can help reduce the feelings of restlessness that often accompany nervous travelers.
People commonly take chamomile as a tea, but it’s also available in various supplement forms, including capsules and tinctures. Many individuals find that sipping on a warm cup of chamomile tea before and during a flight can help ease their nerves and create a sense of relaxation.
3. Ashwagandha
Flight anxiety, often accompanied by jitteriness and restlessness, can be effectively managed with ashwagandha’s calming influence on the nervous system.
The active compounds in ashwagandha, called withanolides, help modulate the body’s stress response by regulating cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. By doing so, ashwagandha can help with mental clarity, reducing the unease that often accompanies air travel.
4. CBD
CBD, short for cannabidiol, has gained significant attention in recent years for its potential to alleviate anxiety and stress, including the type of anxiety often experienced before or during flights. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound in various forms, including oils, capsules, gummies, and topical creams.
One of the ways CBD may help with flight anxiety is by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates mood, stress response, and overall balance. By influencing the receptors in this system, CBD may help promote a sense of relaxation, making it easier for individuals to manage anxiety-inducing situations like air travel.
5. Passionflower
The active compounds in passionflower, including flavonoids and alkaloids, have been shown to have calming effects on the central nervous system. By interacting with certain neurotransmitters, passionflower can help soothe anxiety without causing sedation, making it an excellent choice for those who want to stay alert during their flight. The supplement can alleviate symptoms like restlessness, racing thoughts, and muscle tension, which are common experiences for those with flight anxiety.
How to Use Natural Supplements for Best Results?
Natural supplements come with recommended dosages for a reason. Some supplements must be taken with your food and drinks, while others are more effective on an empty stomach. Read the label instructions and follow the recommended timing for optimal absorption. Pay attention to how your body responds to the supplements.
FAQs
Q: Are natural supplements safe for everyone?
A: Natural supplements are generally safe but can interact with certain medications and conditions. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Q: How long before a flight should I take these supplements?
A: It depends on the supplement. For instance, CBD oil can be taken an hour before the flight, while herbs like valerian root might be taken earlier.
Q: Can children use these supplements?
A: Some supplements may be safe for children in lower doses, but always consult a pediatrician first.
Conclusion
Natural supplements, including CBD, offer a promising solution for managing flight anxiety. With careful selection and proper usage, they can provide a safer alternative to conventional anxiety medications.
