Oxford is fortunate to have doctors and numerous psychologists who are accomplished in these areas. Dr. Michael Murry has writte n a book on the efficacy of 5-HTP in some of these cases. In addition many natural remedies have a long history of usefulness. Scullcap is one anti-stress herb which has been used for centuries in cultures around the world. One European children's formula utilizes scullcap, chamomile, and catnip.
Gentian root is listed in the older herbal books as being marvelous for hysteria.
I have seen folks use it to overcome difficulties associated with withdrawal from coffee, smoking, alcohol, and even narcotics. Smokers may find that herbal blends of coltsfoot with mint or clover or lobelia can be a good temporary substitute for tobacco smoking during the smoker's withdrawal period. In fact American Indians smoked coltsfoot to soothe their lungs, and it doesn't contain the addictive properties of tobacco. Passionflower is described by numerous books to be the best herb if you suffer from tics, twitches, cramps, and spasms. Valerian has good documented nervine and muscle relaxing properties which can promote q uality sleep.