Effective Natural Remedies for Managing Panic Attacks

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.

For recurring panic attacks, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication. Many people find artificial pharmaceuticals disagreeable, so they pursue other possibilities. Frequently, they turn to herbal remedies, vitamins, and other health supplements. However, it is important to remember that before you take any supplements, you should speak with your doctor.

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.

Many panic attack sufferers may not be aware of this, but familiar aromas that remind a person of their childhood years can instantly help somebody to curb an attack and induce a more relaxed state. Anything that reminds a person of happy memories like fresh air, barbecued foods or the scent of freshly cut grass can bust the negative effects of a panic attack.

Consider taking a yoga class. This ancient system of exercise from India focuses on enhancing breathing techniques and improving flexibility. With enough time and practice the level of stress will go down considerably, and panic attacks will occur less frequently.

There are also many herbal remedies that have shown to be effective at managing panic attacks. Here's a look at a few of them.

Many people swear by St. John's Wort for panic attacks. The active ingredients of this herb - wort, hyperforin and hypericin - maintain the balance of neurotransmitters in your brain. By regularly ingesting St. John's wort, you stabilize your levels of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. It prevents your mood from constantly fluctuating, and guards against bursts of emotion. Thus, you avoid a common trigger of panic attacks.

Valerian root has been proven in many clinical trials to be an effective sedative. Its medicinal ingredients, valepotriate and sesquiterpene depress the central nervous system, and slow your heart and breathing. After taking valerian root for thirty days, patients report feeling less anxious and less nervous.

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. - 32513

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