How Anxiety Introduced me to Nature’s Xanax

Image: Abimael Linares

Years ago, I started a journey many dread, few look forward to, and some never get to - therapy. It was rough at first. Unpacking memories and making peace with a lot of things in my life came slowly. I was struggling with anxiety (shocker), and soon after, I had my very first panic attack. 

I was on my way to a friend’s house, driving up a hill in Hollywood, Calif. when I began to gasp for air. I was losing oxygen, my body began to tremble, and I looked at myself in the mirror in full panic and saw a pale girl looking back at me. I reached for snacks stored in my glove compartment and shoved them down my throat. I immediately thought, “my sugar is low, great, now I’m diabetic.” Half-way up the hill, my legs began to tremble and all I could formulate was, “please God, don't let me pass out here.” 

Image: Abimael Linares

The weakness in my body led me to pull off to the side of the road and park. Challenging breaths convinced me I was nearing my final hours. "I am not going to die here. Not today." I pulled my car back into traffic, leaned in, chin clinched to my steering wheel, and drove. I had never been more religious in my life. ​I arrived at my friend's apartment explaining that my last few hours were near. Before I could give her instructions on what to do with my remains, she told me to “sit down, drink some water, and calm down.” Minutes after, I was already feeling better. I had survived my very first panic attack. I could finally call myself a citizen of Los Angeles. ​

Aware of my anxiety, my therapist shared a few natural recommendations. GABA, 5HTP, and Happy Camper. I began my journey with 5HTP, but it was short lived given that it gave me heartburn. I tried GABA, but my reaction was yet another panic attack. I was at my parents house when I took it, and boy did I come close to my final breaths. This time, promises were made to keep me alive. Religion, again, was in full bloom. Finally, I tried Happy Camper, and I am pleased to admit I have not regretted it since. Happy Camper was the supplement I  didn’t know I was missing. A non-habit forming supplement with calming and uplifting properties. It is natural, and one of its main ingredients is KAVA KAVA, which is referred to by many as  "nature's Xanax." I've recommended this one to friends who have shared similar struggles and they have noticed the changes, reporting positive feedback. Its main ingredient is Passion Flower, another calming herb. Mountsinai.org wrote in an article, “Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata) was used traditionally in the Americas and later in Europe as a calming herb for anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and hysteria. It is still used today to treat anxiety and insomnia.” It is also said that Passion Flower may alleviate menopausal symptoms and regulate hormone levels. I didn’t find much research on that, but that’s food for thought. Another ingredient that stands out in this super supplement is Eleuthero (root). Often referred to as Siberian Ginseng, Eleuthero has been used as an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adapt to stressors. It is also said it helps increase energy levels and stamina. Honestly, this ingredient cocktail makes sense to me because Happy Camper has been helpful when I’ve needed that mental boost that sometimes just comes in seasons. To read the full list of ingredients, view Happy Camper here. 

GABA, a chemical messenger (neurotransmitter) in your brain (also sold as a supplement) and 5HTP may not have worked for me, but that doesn’t take away their proven results. Many people have had great success with these supplements. 

One final favorite, also categorized as an adoptogen, is Ashwagandha. This is one of my favorites.  I use both capsules and tea when I am in need of calmness and nightly wind-downs. At least half a lemon squeeze over hot Ashwagandha tea is a great alternative for those every other day moments that feel too hard to bear. It promotes restful sleep and stress relief. 

Adaptogens are known to support the nervous system, they reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system. Whether it's seasonal or just a period of high stress levels, herbs and supplements can help. Always consult a doctor before taking any of these substances. They can sometimes interfere with medicines (like blood thinners, for example) and other health conditions. Consider incorporating walks into your day along with healthy food choices to help promote better sleep, happier moods, and a healthier body. Remember, everything works together. 

​If you enjoyed this post and found it helpful, share it with a friend. If you decide you want to try any of the products mentioned in this article, by purchasing with the links enclosed, I earn a very small commission. This helps me keep this site running to share all the good things with you. 

This supplement link list has been carefully curated with products I own or would buy myself. They are all suitable for vegans.

GABA: https://amzn.to/4lbL7Zo
​5HTP: https://amzn.to/4hENZuM
Happy Camper: https://amzn.to/4j17BKI
Ashwagandha (capsules): https://amzn.to/4iBO7fW
Ashwagandha (tea): option a) https://amzn.to/4kWJTRx  option b) https://amzn.to/4l1RiPG
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I have not been paid by the brand/company that makes/sells these products. This is not a sponsorship.

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, a nutritionist, or a specialist. I am simply sharing my experience. It is important to always discuss with your doctor(s) before starting a new medication or supplement or herb. Substances may and can interfere with medications (like blood thinners, for example).  Always consult a doctor before taking any new product like the ones mentioned here.*

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by Jessica G Ferrer