Benzodiazepines are drugs with tranquilizing properties, and they are commonly prescribed to people who are suffering from anxiety. However, they are also sometimes used for other purposes such as relaxing the muscles, dealing with seizures and relieving insomnia. Two of the most popular brands of benzodiazepines these days are Xanax and Valium.

Also sometimes referred to as benzos, benzodiazepines are highly effective. Unfortunately, just like other drugs in our midst, benzodiazepines are notorious for causing all kinds of side effects.

Some of the most common side effects of benzodiazepines include:

• Drowsiness

• Dizziness

• Brain fog

• Confusion

• Blurred vision

• Headaches

• Weakness

• Upset stomach

• Changes in appetite

Some of the really serious side effects of benzos are shortness of breath, chest pain, depression and suicidal ideations.

There’s a very big problem with benzodiazepines: they are highly addictive. A couple of things may happen if you take benzodiazepines for several months:

• Benzodiazepines may stop working. The only way for them to work once again? Taking them in higher doses. The need to take benzodiazepines in higher doses just for a person to obtain the therapeutic effects is known as drug tolerance.

• You may have a hard time quitting. The reason why turning your back on benzodiazepines can be extremely challenging is the fact that withdrawal symptoms include anxiety and panic attacks — both of which can entice you to pop benzodiazepines in your mouth. There are many other withdrawal symptoms that you may encounter, and they include insomnia, irritability, muscle tightness, hallucinations and seizures.

And by the way, benzodiazepines and alcohol don’t mix — coupling them, both of which can depress the nervous system, can in fact be fatal!

Due to the many side effects and risks involved with the intake of benzos, a lot of people who could benefit from these drugs simply look for natural alternatives.

Here are some of those that are commonly used as replacements for benzodiazepines:

Vitamin C

Believe it or not, the nutrient that’s usually associated with strengthening the immune system has anti-anxiety properties, too. In fact, some people with mild anxiety exhibit signs of vitamin C deficiency.

Zinc

Another immune booster that can be used as a replacement for benzodiazepines is zinc. According to health authorities, zinc is a role player in the production of happy hormones.

B Complex

Just like zinc, the various B vitamins are important for happy hormone synthesis. It’s no wonder why individuals who are deficient in B vitamins are suffering from anxiety and also depression.

Magnesium

Usually, magnesium supplements are recommended for those who are experiencing palpitations and body aches due to its ability to relax the muscles. It’s for this reason why magnesium can be regarded as a replacement for benzos.

Chamomile

It’s common knowledge that chamomile tea is an excellent home remedy for various digestive issues. Not a lot of people are aware of the fact that chamomile tea may also be taken to fend off anxiety. Chamomile essential oil works, too.

Green Tea

There’s another tea that you may brew and take if you are having an anxiety attack, and that’s green tea — it contains the amino acid l-theanine that has the ability to beat stress and anxiety.

Holy Basil

Also sometimes referred to as tulsi, holy basil is a popular all-natural remedy for anxiety. You can take advantage of the anti-anxiety properties of holy basil by drinking it as tea or taking it in the form of capsules.

Have you tried any of the above-mentioned natural alternatives to benzodiazepines? If yes, feel free to post your experience in the comments section down below. And also, don’t forget to share this article on your various social media sites to so that your family members and friends who are suffering from anxiety may also be able to give the above a try!