Panic attacks are sudden feelings of intense alarm or fear that seem to happen for no reason, and they can provoke severe physical symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, a panic attack may cause increased heart rate, dizziness, dry mouth, chest pain, sweating, trembling, abdominal cramps and nausea. Traditional treatments include psychotherapy and medication. Herbal remedies may also help panic attacks, but always consult your physician before using any alternative remedy to treat a serious health condition.
St. John's Wort
Low serotonin levels make you more susceptible to depression, anxiety and panic. St. John's Wort, scientifically known as Hypericum perforatum, may be helpful in treating panic attacks. The herb potentially increases serotonin in the brain, states Emergency Anxiety Remedies. St. John's Wort acts as a natural re-uptake inhibitor and may be used in place of a prescribed SSRI, or selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor, such as paroxetine and fluoxetine. St. John's Wort should be taken with caution. Side effects of this herb include upset stomach, dizziness and an increased sensitivity to sunlight. It can also interact with certain medications. If you are taking any medications, talk to your physician before using St. John's Wort.
Passion Flower
Passion flower, or Passiflora incarnata, acts as a natural sedative but does not cause drowsiness. This herb can help ease symptoms that accompany anxiety and panic attacks. According to the website Overcome Panic Attacks, passion flower acts like a benzodiazepine, a medication often prescribed for people who suffer from panic attacks and anxiety disorders. Passion flower and benzodiazepines help induce restfulness, have a calming effect and help alleviate anxiety. Passion flower may cause nausea and a rapid heartbeat, and may interact with other forms of medication, especially sedatives, so consult your doctor before taking passion flower.
Kava Kava
Kava kava, or Piper methysticum, is widely used for anxiety and panic attacks. This herb works well for those who suffer from mild panic attacks who are not taking any other forms of anti-anxiety medication. Kava kava, similar in constitution to diazepam, promotes a serene state of relaxation and can help anxiety and panic sufferers improve their concentration levels, memory and reaction time, states the University of Maryland Medical Center. This herb should not be taken daily, but rather when you feel an anxiety or panic attack coming. Because of possible drug interactions and liver damage, do not take kava kave without talking to your doctor first.
