Everyone has experienced occasional feelings of panic before a stressful event in their lives. However, if you experience panic attacks frequently, you may have a type of anxiety called panic disorder. A panic attack usually occurs suddenly and for no apparent reason, causing intense symptoms such as an extreme fear something awful is about to happen, racing heartbeat, hyperventilation, nausea and dizziness. There are a number of prescription medications available to treat panic attacks, but ask your physician about herbal remedies that can also benefit you.
Valerian Root
Valerian is a perennial plant, and its roots are collected for medicinal use. Valerian root has a sweet and spicy taste, but an unpleasant odor after being dried for use; the ancient Greek physician Galen referred to it as "phu" for that reason. Valerian root is a popular herb for insomnia, but can also be used to relieve anxiety and panic attacks. Valerian root is especially effective for nighttime panic attacks. AltMD advises not to take valerian root for more than three weeks consecutively, as it can cause withdrawal symptoms. Don't take valerian before having surgery or when taking other sedatives or alcoholic beverages.
Passionflower
Passionflower is also known as apricot vine and maypop. It is a tropical climbing vine that produces glorious blue-violet blooms, which are harvested along with its stems and leaves for use in herbal preparations. Passionflower works as a nerve tonic to calm episodes of anxiety and panic attacks without causing the drowsiness usually associated with sedative medications. Passionflower is often found in combination with valerian root. Don't take passionflower along with antidepressant medications known as MAO inhibitors or if you are pregnant or nursing. Passionflower contains cyanide-like compounds and should only be taken under your doctor's supervision.
Ginger
Ginger is derived from the twisted tan root of the Zingiber officinale plant. Ginger is an ancient spice and herb, being one of the most widely used herbal remedies worldwide. Pieces of ginger's fleshy root are sliced off or its oil is extracted via steam distillation. Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Herbal Healing," states ginger reduces the severity of anxiety and panic attacks by increasing the amount of oxygen to your brain. Ginger can cause diarrhea and stomach upset when taken fresh or in a tea. Do not use ginger if you have gallstones or a bleeding disorder.
Kava
Kava, or Piper methysticum, is a member of the pepper family and has been used medicinally for centuries. Kava is an evergreen tropical shrub whose roots are collected for use in herbal preparations. Kava is used to treat anxiety and nervous disorders, including panic attacks. Kava has a calming effect and relieves nervous tension and relax your muscles. Balch advises that kava should be taken no more than four to six months and only under supervision of your physician, because extended use can cause nerve and liver damage.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder; March 2010
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- AltMD: Valerian
- University of Michigan Health System: Passionflower; December 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ginger; Steven D. Ehrlich; November 2008
