There are at least four botanical extracts that have proper evidence as mood enhancers.<\/p>\n
Chamomile<\/strong> It can also be taken as a supplement, typically standardized to contain 1.2% apigenin (an active ingredient), along with dried chamomile flowers.<\/p>\n In a study at the University of Pennsylvania\u2019s Medical Center, patients with generalized anxiety disorder who took chamomile supplements for eight weeks had a significant decrease in anxiety symptoms compared to patients taking placebo.<\/p>\n L-theanine<\/strong> (in Green Tea<\/strong>) Research indicates that L-theanine can help lower heart rate and blood pressure, and human studies have found that it reduces anxiety. An average dose is about 200 milligrams of L-theanine a day.<\/p>\n Valerian<\/strong> Most people take Valerian as a capsule as it doesn\u2019t smell very nice! It is sometimes combined with other sedative herbs such as chamomile, or lemon balm.<\/p>\n
\nThere are compounds in chamomile (Matricaria recutita<\/em>) that bind to the same brain receptors as drugs like Valium. So a cup of chamomile tea can have a direct calming influence.<\/p>\n
\nAn amino acid in green tea called L-theanine may be responsible for the famed ability of Buddhist monks to be able to meditate for hours, in an alpha mind-state that is both alert yet relaxed.<\/p>\n
\nValerian (Valeriana officinalis<\/em>) contains sedative compounds and is a sleep aid. The German government has approved it as a treatment for sleep difficulties.<\/p>\n