Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, holds a prominent place in Ayurvedic medicine. This traditional East Indian plant is an evergreen member of the pepper family, and is native to India, the Mediterranean and parts of the Middle East. Also called winter cherry or Indian ginseng, this versatile herb may play a role in reducing panic attacks, by helping to reduce the accompanying anxiety. Because the FDA does not oversee the production of Ashwagandha supplements, there is no guarantee of quality or safety. Use this herb under a doctor's supervision.
Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are a debilitating symptom of panic disorder, characterized by sudden intense bouts of unreasonable fear. During a panic attack, the patient may feel as though he dying, and he may experience physical symptoms that mimic a heart attack. Panic attacks usually subside within 30 minutes, but the patient may be so afraid of experiencing another attack that he is reluctant to go into public places.
Ashwagandha in Ayurveda
Regular use of ashwagandha in Ayurveda medicine may contribute to the reduction of anxiety related to panic attacks when used as one part of an overall treatment program designed to address the mind and body as one. Ayurvedic practitioners may use the herb in conjunction with other herbs and medications, diet alterations and exercises, to suit the individual patients.
Ashwagandha's Role as an Adaptogen
The Langone Medical Center at New York University reports that ashwagandha is an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body withstand all types of stress, including mental and emotional stress. Evidence supporting ashwagandha's use as successful in the treatment of anxiety and depression is weak, but your doctor may use the herb as one part of a stress-reduction program.
Dosage and Considerations
An infusion, made by boiling up to 2 g of ashwagandha root in water or milk, is taken three times a day, according to the Langone Center. Alternately, adults may take 300mg of powdered root, in capsule or tablet form, twice a day. The "Gale Encyclopedia" reports that side effects are unlikely but adds that Ashwagandha is relatively new to Western herbal medicine and studies confirming its safety are lacking. General safety precautions include not giving this herb to children, pregnant women or nursing mothers, unless directed to do so by a doctor.
References
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 1"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- Mayo Clinic: Panic Attack Symptoms
- NYU; Langone Medical Center: Ashwagandha
