Panic attacks are a common symptom of panic disorder, a type of anxiety disorder. PubMed Health states that panic attacks involve a profound fear that something bad or harmful may occur, and panic attacks often cause you to live in fear of future attacks. Panic attacks can significantly affect your quality of life. Before using herbal remedies to treat your panic attacks, ask your doctor what herbs may or may not be appropriate for you.
Panic Attacks
MedlinePlus states that panic attacks are sudden episodes of terror that develop for no particular reason. Physical symptoms associated with panic attacks include tachycardia or elevated heart rate, chest pain or discomfort, problems with your breathing and dizziness. In some cases, panic attacks may keep you from leaving your home, due to the fear of future attacks. Panic attacks tend to manifest in women more commonly than men. Panic attacks may be triggered by increased stress levels.
Useful Herbal Remedies
There are numerous herbal remedies that may treat various aspects of your panic attacks. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," Phyllis A. Balch, a nutrition researcher and certified nutritional consultant, reports that valerian and skullcap are especially effective at treating nocturnal panic attacks and encouraging healthy sleep. Mandarin oil is used to relieve anxiety and depression, while St. John's wort may also reduce your feelings of instability. Other beneficial herbs may include chamomile, passionflower, kava kava, hops and linden flower.
A Powerful Herb
Linden flower is a powerful herbal remedy in the treatment of panic attacks. Linden flower, notes the University of Michigan Health System, is used to help treat panic attacks and anxiety, indigestion, heartburn and low stomach acidity and ear infections. Linden is a type of tree that grows in certain parts of North America, Europe and Asia. The flowers of the linden tree contain many medicinal ingredients and are used in herbal preparations. Linden flower possesses both calmative and antidepressant action.
Warning
Panic attacks are a serious health problem whose underlying cause or causes should be evaluated by a qualified health care professional. Panic attacks may respond favorably to herbal remedies, although other treatments recommended by your doctor may also be beneficial in reducing the frequency and severity of your attacks. It is always wise to speak with your family physician before using herbal remedies because certain herbs may interact with your medications and other health conditions to cause unwanted side effects.
References
- PubMed Health: Panic Disorder
- MedlinePlus: Panic Disorder
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- University of Michigan Health System: Linden
