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 | Are there any alternative therapies for social phobia? |
|  Social phobia is a type of anxiety some people experience in social or performance situations. When this anxiety interferes with a person's daily life, doctors call this an anxiety disorder or situational anxiety. Non-drug treatments like behavior therapy can help social phobia. Some people use the herbs kava kava (also called kava) or valerian to help with anxiety disorders. Medical research hasn't proven the effectiveness of these herbs, and their benefits haven't been compared to those of prescription drugs. The usual dose for kava is 100 to 200 mg per day. Since it may increase the effects of alcohol, you shouldn't drink alcohol when taking it. Be aware of side effects and drug interactions. You should talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using this herb.Valerian is a mild sedative. Its side effects are minimal with doses of 150 to 300 mg per day. Sources: The Review of Natural Products. Facts & Comparisons, 2007.Peirce, A. The American Pharmaceutical Association Practical Guide to Natural Medicines. William Morrow & Co., 1999.Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2007.This answer prepared 5/17/2000. This information updated 1/2/2007. |
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