Herbal medicines as a safe alternative to synthetic anxiolytics in the treatment of stress and anxiety among servicemen

Introduction. According to the recent sociological survey data, 77% of Ukrainians have felt stressed or very nervous, particularly those with manifestations of post-traumatic stress disorder. Respondents name a full-scale war as the dominant reason for this feeling. According to the results of a survey conducted during the first year of the full-scale invasion, 6% fewer respondents reported feeling stressed. Benzodiazepines are the most commonly used class of anxiolytic medications for treating stress and anxiety. However, prolonged use is associated with numerous risks. In this way, doctors and patients are increasingly turning to herbal remedies as a safe alternative to benzodiazepines. This becomes particularly important for military personnel in wartime conditions. Prolonged stress and emotional strain can lead to the development of serious mental disorders. Safe herbal anxiolytics can reduce anxiety, promote psychological resilience, improve the quality of life for military personnel, and allow them to perform their combat missions more effectively without the risk of addiction or impaired concentration caused by the side effects of synthetic preparations. Purpose. To study and analyse the state of pharmacological research on herbal objects, considering their anxiolytic actions and related constituents. To assess the prospects for practical application of plant-based medications in the treatment of stress and anxiety, for both civilians and military personnel. Materials and Methods. The bibliosemantic method was used in conducting the research. The study materials included scientific publications in professional journals. Results. An analysis of the pharmacodynamic and clinical studies on plant-based medicines derived from Passiflora incarnata L., Crataegus species, Valeriana officinalis L., Matricaria chamomilla L., and Withania somnifera L. was conducted. It was determined that the studied plant-based remedies exhibit anxiolytic activity and demonstrate clinical efficacy in treating anxiety, stress, and related disorders. Conclusions. Based on the results of the analysis, herbal medicines appear promising for use in the treatment and prevention of stress-related conditions. Depending on the severity of the condition, these herbal remedies could present a safe alternative to synthetic anxiolytics, especially for long-term use. The next phase of research should focus on developing a final medicinal formulation, defining its target quality profile, and