Expert: Tonja Wells - 9/21/2005

Question
I am looking for safer ways to reduce acute anxiety, besides traditional medicines and tranquilizers like valium.  I am a 23-year-old female.  I'm 5'6" and weigh about 120 pounds.  I have an intense fear of public speaking and engaging in any activities that require people to focus on me and/or judge me in any way; it is on the verge of social phobia.  To get through my program at school, I must do a lot of public speaking in the next little while.  I am looking for any herbs that might reduce SEVERE nervousness without making me drowsy or unable to concentrate.  Do you know of anything that might help until I can get to some type of counselling to deal with the root of my problems?  I have heard of using kava and valerian, but I'm not sure if they actually make you less nervous.  Thank you for your help.

Answer
Sorry it has taken longer than usual to respond. I had to go out of town and was dealing with a death in the family.
I would suggest the following
Bach Flowers
Chinese Nervous Fatigue Formula
NutriCalm

The herbs you have been taking are more for sleep and muscle relaxants.
You want to address the nervous system instead.

You can go to www.herbalhealthsolutions.4the.net to learn more about these.
I would also do some EFT.

You can go to mercola.com and type in EFT to find someone qualified in your area.

Tonja Wells