Natural Remedies for Panic Attacks Can Be Highly Effective

By Candace Martin

There are many different varieties of panic attacks. Some will strike spontaneously and others will build up over time. Since the panic attacks are coming from within the body it makes sense to choose a lifestyle that is healthy in order to help mitigate the problem. In fact, natural remedies for panic attacks are one of the best ways to treat this debilitating problem.

Though some panic attack sufferers may combat their attacks with medication, it's best to treat them naturally. Medications, especially when taken in large doses can lead to uncomfortable side effects and drug dependency. The sufferer might become so addicted to his/her medication that panic attacks symptoms may not dissipate. Sleeping pills and stress relievers may help up to a point but these will only suppress the attacks. Once the medication is finished the panic attacks will return and with higher degrees of severity.

A healthy diet is a sensible first step to getting your panic attacks under control naturally. Beverages which contain caffeine, like tea and coffee, as well as any kind of beverage with alcohol, can increase heart palpitations. These will make panic attacks worse. Also, limit your intake of carbonated sodas and chocolate. Quitting smoking might help too. Some may claim that smoking helps to relieve stress but there is no direct evidence to suggest that tobacco products can help to reduce the effects of a panic attack.

Aromatherapy can help to relieve panic attacks. The soothing properties of certain oils can calm and relax tense nerves. Lavender, lemon balm and passiflora are some of the recommended oils that can produce positive results.

Regular doses of essential vitamins and minerals like magnesium, calcium and vitamin B can help the sufferer to sleep better and to settle the nervous system. More rest leads to greater mental acuity and better overall health.

A number of herbal remedies have demonstrated their effectiveness at helping to control panic attacks. Following are a few of the most popular.

Using St. John's Wort for panic attacks has been proven to increase a person's well being and greatly reduce the effects of panic attacks. It helps to stabilize the brain's neurotransmitters and the "feel good" chemicals norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine. The result is more stable moods which tend to discourage panic attacks.

Kava root is a very popular anti-anxiety herb. It is an effectual and fast-acting sedative. Through depressing the central nervous system, kava root slows your heart and breathing, directly combating the effects of a panic attack. Because the body absorbs kava root very quickly, ingesting kava root right before a panic attack may significantly reduce symptoms. A meta-study concluded that kava root is more effective than placebo, in relieving anxiety disorders.

When your body ingests tryptophan, it can do one of two things: use the tryptophan to make some proteins, or transform the tryptophan into serotonin. Serotonin is the neurotransmitter that is responsible for feelings of safety and contentment. Logically, if one ingests more tryptophan, one's body produces more serotonin, leading to happiness and calm. How does one get more tryptophan in one's diet? Tryptophan is found in lots of foods, such as turkey, milk, and fish. Change your grocery shopping habits, and you're halfway there.

Whatever supplements you decide to take, discuss them with your doctor beforehand. If your doctor believes they will interact dangerously with your medications, his or her word is final. - 30309

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