For a millennium, if not longer, people have been relying on natural herbal remedies for just about everything. Whether you’re suffering from an illness or simply going through a stressful period in your life, natural herbs can help, in fact, several of these remedies have been studied as possible treatments for things like anxiety, pain, and even sleep deprivation.

The following is a list of herbs helpful in reducing anxiety and improving sleep. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S. and affect close to 40 million adults, women being twice as likely to be affected as men. Sometimes going hand-in-hand with anxiety is Insomnia, which is a lack of healthful, restful sleep. This is a common problem experienced by as many as 20% to 30% of American adults throughout their lives.

• PASSIONFLOWER: The University of Maryland Medical Center stated that in a few studies, passionflower appeared to work as well as some benzodiazepine medications that are usually prescribed for treating anxiety.

• LEMON BALM: Often found in combination with other herbs, lemon balm is known to have its own anti-anxiety powers. Known for reducing stress and improving calmness and alertness.

• VALERIAN ROOT: Hailing from the same botanical family as chamomile, this is a great anti-anxiety herb. Valerian root has been used to treat anxiety for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine. In addition to anxiety, it is also commonly used as a natural sleep aid. Aside from drowsiness, there are no other known side effects.

• WILD LETTUCE: Wild lettuce is known as a mild sedative and nervine, which is used for restlessness and insomnia, and because of its safety of use and calming effects, wild lettuce is a safe remedy to use for children.

• CHAMOMILE: Chamomile is one of most recognized sleep aid, by promoting sleep by increasing your mental calmness. A recent study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that chamomile also significantly reduces the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder.

• ASHWAGANDHA: Ashwagandha is a popular herb used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is known to protect your nervous system and relieve anxiety. Studies have confirmed this herbal remedy’s anxiety-fighting properties, and have suggested that it is also a very powerful immune-system booster which may even have anti-aging effects.

• LAVENDER: When used orally or as aromatherapy, lavender is known to help reduce anxiety. When compared to the anti-anxiety medication lorazepam, it was found that lavender was effective against both generalized and persistent anxiety. When added to a bath, a few drops of lavender can have a nice, calming effect. This herb has no sedative side effects.

• L-THEANINE: This amino acid is found in green tea. It has been proven to reduce anxiety a well as help to improve mood. Fun fact, Buddhist monks have credited green tea for their ability to sit calmly for hours of meditation.

**Disclaimer: It is always a good idea to consult with a medical provider before trying any herbal remedy. Some herbs can possibly counteract with any prescription drugs you may be currently taking and can even be dangerous if combined with alcohol or sedatives.