Conquering Anxiety Naturally: A Deep Dive into Mental Health Supplements

In a world where mental health is a growing concern, many individuals are seeking alternative methods to support their emotional well-being. Natural supplements have gained popularity due to their potential benefits and fewer side effects compared to some psychiatric medications. In this article, we'll delve into the mechanisms of action of some of these supplements and explore their recommended doses and potential interactions with psychiatric medications.

Silexin (Lavender Oil Extract)

Mechanism of Action (MOA): Silexin operates through a multi-faceted approach. It inhibits voltage-dependent calcium channels, has an affinity for the NMDA receptor and SERT, and acts via the GABA A receptors.

Recommended Dose: Quality clinical studies suggest a daily dose of 160 mg for optimal results.

Interaction Concerns: While Silexin is generally safe to combine with most psychiatric medications, caution is advised when using it alongside benzodiazepines, Z-drugs, and similar medications.

Rhodiola Rosea Extract (RRE)

Mechanism of Action (MOA): RRE normalizes stress hormone release, such as cortisol, and enhances ATP synthesis in mitochondria. It also possesses MAO-A and MAO-B inhibition, suggesting potential mechanisms for its antidepressant and anxiolytic properties.

Recommended Dose: Depending on the formulation used, a recommended dose varies from 170 mg twice daily to 200 mg before meals.

Interaction Concerns: Rhodiola Rosea Extract generally plays well with psychiatric medications. However, it's essential to monitor systolic blood pressure when combining it with anti-hypertensive medication.

Chamomile Extract (CE)

Mechanism of Action (MOA): CE influences various neuroactive pathways, including serotonin, cAMP signaling, and calcium signaling. Its anxiolytic activity may be linked to its effects on GABA, noradrenalin, dopamine, and serotonin neurotransmission.

Recommended Dose: A standardized daily dose of 1500 mg, providing 6 mg of apigenin per capsule, is commonly recommended.

Interaction Concerns: Chamomile Extract is generally safe to use alongside psychiatric medications. However, caution should be exercised when combining it with benzodiazepines, Z-drugs, or anti-hypertensive medication.

Holy Basil (HB)

Mechanism of Action (MOA): HB helps regulate the HPA (hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal) axis.

Recommended Dose: A typical recommended dose is 500 mg twice daily after meals.

Interaction Concerns: Holy Basil can generally be combined with all classes of psychiatric medication without major concerns.

Ashwagandha (AG)

Mechanism of Action (MOA): Ashwagandha exhibits a high affinity for GABA receptors and possesses GABA mimetic properties.

Recommended Dose: The recommended dose varies depending on the formulation and percentage of withanolides but typically ranges from 2-3 g per day.

Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)

Mechanism of Action (MOA): GABA increases alpha waves, reduces beta waves, and has a positive impact on heart rate variability.

Recommended Dose: The daily recommended dose can vary significantly, from 100 mg for healthy individuals to higher doses of up to 4 g for those with severe anxiety symptoms.

Interaction Concerns: While GABA can generally be combined with psychiatric medications, caution is advised when combining it with benzodiazepines, Z-drugs, or similar medications.

Niacinamide

Mechanism of Action (MOA): Niacinamide induces effects similar to benzodiazepines and boosts serotonin production.

Recommended Dose: A typical recommended dose of niacinamide ranges from 2000-4500 mg, divided into multiple daily doses and taken with food.

Interaction Concerns: Niacinamide is generally safe to combine with most psychiatric medications, but caution is advised when used alongside benzodiazepines, Z-drugs, or similar medications.

Before incorporating any of these supplements into your mental health regimen, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you are already taking psychiatric medications. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs and ensure a safe and effective approach to supporting your mental well-being.

Remember that supplements should complement, not replace, any prescribed treatments or therapies for mental health conditions.

Author

Dr. Jaswinderjit Singh Dr. Jaswinderjit Singh, MD, who treats patients in and around Valley Stream, New York, at Jazz Psychiatry, takes a holistic approach to psychiatry, believing that successfully treating a person’s disorders involves more than dealing with their mental health.