Panic attacks are a type of anxiety disorder that causes the sufferer to endure periodic bouts of symptoms ranging from frightening thoughts, rapid heart beat, shortness of breath, extreme agitation and feelings of helplessness and a loss of control. Defined by the sudden onset of symptoms, the cause of panic disorder is unknown. Certain home remedies may provide relief for panic disorder, but do not replace a visit to the doctor.
Stress Management
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), various stress management techniques such as aerobic exercise helps relieve panic attacks and enhances conventional treatments. Aerobic exercise such as swimming, walking or jogging releases endorphins, a brain chemical that calms the emotions and elevates the mood.
Vitamin B Supplements and Inositol
Vitamin B enhances feelings of being more centered and calm for individuals taking regular, daily supplementation. In particular, the B vitamin inositol influences the production of the brain chemical seratonin, reports the Mayo Clinic, and reduces the severity and intensity of panic disorders. Check with a doctor or healthcare practitioner for individual dosage instructions.
Breathing Into a Paper Bag
An old-time home remedy that relieves hyperventilation during a panic attack involves covering the mouth and nose with a paper bag to slow down agitated breathing. Place the opening of the bag on the face to form a seal around the cheeks. Breathing in carbon dioxide relaxes hyperventilation and calms the person having a panic attack.
Cream of Tartar
Cream of tartar mixed with water reduces panic attacks by creating a highly alkalized condition in the body. The alkaline state alters the body's pH, balances the system, and returns it to normal. This temporary relief lasts from fifteen to thirty minutes. Repeat treatment with additional drinks if necessary, recommends nutrition and pH experts, Robert O. Young, Ph.D. and Shelley Redford Young in their book, “The pH Miracle.” The recommended dose is 1/2 tsp. cream of tartar mixed in 8 oz. of water. Cream of tartar will not interfere with conventional medicines.
Homeopathy
The homeopathic remedy, arsenicum album is another home remedy that alleviates the symptoms of panic disorder. Arsenicum is useful for people with anxiety symptoms such as rapid, shallow breathing, restlessness, fear of being alone, pacing back and forth, hand wringing and chilliness. It is especially helpful for people that suffer from panic attacks during the night when the onset of symptoms occurs between midnight and 2 a.m. Arsenicum is a well-known, popular homeopathic remedy for panic attacks; however, there is not enough scientific evidence to recommend that patients give up conventional medication to use arsenicum alone.
