Question
Dear Sir
I have been having symptoms of a virus-like infection, for about two months, inc blocked nose and headaches, sweats, trembling, racing heart, and have been taking remedies like beechams powders, which help to ease some of these, but this has been going on for over two months and i also get burning sensations in the head with feelings of great anxiety that cannot be helped with the normal painkillers. I thought this maybe anxiety or excitation of some kind caused by the cold and took some passionflower capsules and these helped calm some of the symptoms. I have also been told that Valerian is good for this but dont know what side-effects these herbs might have and do not wish to continue until i know a little more. Can you please advise if these have any side-effects etc or are they ok to use?
thanks for your help
kind regards
P.Akhter


Answer
The passsion flower and valerian are very good.  I take valerian myself and sometimes passion flower.  They will both make you sleepy, but will have  a calming effect.  Other things you should do a little research on are: kava kava, st johns wort, 5htp.    

Kava kava is a good calming agent and mood enhancer.  It is a natural herb, may make you drowsy.  St Johns wort, also a natural herb is very good for mild depression.   5htp is a substance that is used to relieve depression/anxiety.  Do not take 5htp and st johns wort together.  

I would advise you to see a doctor to determine the cause of your symptoms.
David