Media reports have suggested the ongoing economic problems are leading many Americans to explore alternative therapies to help relieve stress and anxiety.

Yoga studios, meditation classes and the offices of massage therapists and acupuncturists are quickly filling up with people who have lost jobs, homes, retirement savings or those who are afraid of losing them, according to a report in Fresno Bee.

“High stress can lead to depression as well as digestive disorders,” says Fresno acupuncturist Peter Luk, quoted by the newspaper.

“All of those can be treated with acupuncture and herbal medicine,” he adds.

The report stresses that one of the primary motivations for people suffering from stress and anxiety who turn to complementary or alternative treatments is their desire to avoid sleeping pills, antidepressants and pain medications.

Natural nutritional supplements practitioners have recommended for stress include herbal extracts of valerian or passionflower.

Besides yoga, meditation and acupuncture, some people have also benefitted from aromatherapy in the form of plant essential oils, massage oil or infusers to the bath.

Essential oils that are used for anxiety and nervous tension include bergamot, cypress, geranium, jasmine, lavender, melissa, rose and sandalwood. Lavender is the most common and forms the base of many relaxing blends.