The present invention relates to the use of Echinacea or Echinacea preparations for the manufacture of pharmaceutical compositions which can be used to relieve natural occurrences of anxiety. The compositions can also be used to relieve the symptoms of various anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, panic, acute traumatic stress disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, phobias of various kinds including social phobia, compulsive disorders, and anxiety states related to withdrawal from drugs (e.g. alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs). The phrase “Echinacea” embraces Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida, or their combination. Echinacea preparations can be administered alone, but should preferably be used in combination with a vitamin mix (including but not limited to B1, B2, niacin, pantothenic acid, B6, biotin, folic acid B12, and/or C vitamin) and/or a mineral mix (including but not limited to calcium, magnesium and zinc).