Panic attacks are characteristic of severe anxiety disorder. These attacks are marked by intense feelings of fear and dread, particularly when there is no discernible cause for these emotions. Panic disorder affects about 1 to 2 percent of adults in the United States, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Although alternative remedies should not replace medical and psychological treatment for panic attacks, certain herbs, minerals and vitamins may help relieve symptoms.
Motherwort
Motherwort is an herb used to treat emotional disorders since the times of the Ancient Greeks and Romans, who recommended it as a remedy for depression and anxiety. Today, motherwort is primarily used as a tranquilizer and sedative, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." It may calm your central nervous system, reducing the severity and frequency of panic attacks. It may also help relieve panic-related sleep problems. However, evidence of motherwort's effectiveness for panic disorders is inconclusive. Talk to your doctor before using motherwort to treat panic attacks -- it may increase bleeding.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is most commonly known as an immune system enhancer and a preventative vitamin for colds and influenza. However, this vitamin may also help you avoid panic attacks, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." This vitamin may have anti-stress properties, and may improve your body's ability to repair brain and nerve cells during sleep. This vitamin is found in foods such as blueberries, pomegranates, avocados, spinach, papaya, oranges and apples.
Zinc
Zinc is a trace mineral that may produce a calming effect on your central nervous system, according to Balch. This may help reduce shakes, irrational fear and breathing difficulties associated with panic attacks. It may also improve immune system function, enhancing your body's ability to ward off infection during times of stress or anxiety. Eggs, lentils, black beans, fish, kelp and sunflower seeds are rich sources of zinc.
Skullcap
Skullcap was originally used by traditional Chinese physicians as a tranquilizer and a sedative. It may help relieve insomnia associated with panic disorder, according to Balch. It may also reduce night terrors, which are panic attacks that occur during sleep, and can severely disrupt your body's ability to obtain sufficient rest. Talk to your doctor before taking skullcap to treat panic attacks. In rare cases, this herb may cause diarrhea and stomach upset.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Panic Disorder
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
