Dear Pharmacist: I get very anxious and nervous over the smallest things. I can’t help myself, so I take Xanax to calm down. Sometimes I have a few glasses of wine (not with the Xanax though). It’s one or the other. What do you think about the dietary supplement Kava for relaxation? – D.W., Long Island, N.Y.
Dear D.W.:
Xanax is one of the safer anti- anxiety medications on the market, and if it’s working for you, that’s great. I would not drink alcohol on the days that you take Xanax because that’s a very dangerous combination. I’m also against taking Kava if you’re on any anti-anxiety or antidepressant medication, prescribed or over the counter.
Kava comes from the South Sea Islands, where it’s been used for centuries to induce relaxation. Those who are sensitive might feel “intoxicated” by it.
Now, why would I recommend against taking Kava if you’re taking Xanax? Actually, I think you should avoid this herb if you’re taking any anti-anxiety, antidepressant pharmaceutical, or drink alcohol. The active ingredients in Kava, called kavalactones, are helpful in relieving pain, and these compounds have a profound action all over your body, not just your brain. Never combine your anti-anxiety meds or antidepressants with Kava because it can over-sedate you. There have been fatalities from people who misused this herb, which – for the record – has been enjoyed for centuries. Millions of people have tried Kava, and it has a relatively good track record, but in the past decade there have been several reports of liver damage. While Kava is readily available in this country, it has been banned in others. I think problems arise because people combine herbs with drugs or alcohol.
So what herb would I recommend if you’re also taking Xanax or some other medication to help you deal with anxiety or depression? Chamomile, either German or Roman.
Chamomile is a safe, gentle-acting herb. It’s so safe you can give it to children to help soothe a tummy ache. Its traditional use for relaxation has been validated by modern science. While you can take chamomile in capsules, I’m not sure why you’d want to. The tea has a sweet, flowery aroma and a pleasant, apple-like taste. It’s perfect to keep on hand for those occasions when you’re feeling anxious and simply want to unwind.
There are no known safety issues with chamomile, with one small exception: Avoid it if you’re allergic to anything else in the daisy family, such as ragweed.
This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Go to DearPharmacist.com.
