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Replacing drugs with natural herbs for Anxiety and Panic Attacks

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By Free Thinker


Introduction

 Herbs for anxiety are being used effectively by millions of people to help combat, reduce, and eliminate symptoms related to this condition. There are numerous herbs for anxiety and their use is quite common today, they have proven to effectively ease many of the symptoms of anxiety with a very low risk of side effects. Of the more common remedies that are used is a simple rose, whose smell is known to have a very calming influence on people. While anti-anxiety medications do work well, they can often be habit-forming or cause side effects, whereas herbs are considered safer and typically do not lead to dependence or addiction. If you suffer from anxiety and don’t want to take prescription medication, there are several herbs that might help. Whether your anxiety stems from an easily identifiable and transient source or is more serious and long-lasting, using a natural herb treatment for anxiety should be considered.


Anxiety - What is it?

Anxiety disorders are a common problem, affecting approximately 20 million adults and children in America. There are a number of different patterns that lead to anxiety disorder, and so, the treatments that alleviate anxiety can vary. The stresses of modern living are increasing anxiety problems at a alarming rate.

Anxiety can be termed as a state of mind where people experience nervousness, fear, panic and a constant sad and depressed mood. When a person is stressed, the normal reaction that follows is a feeling of anxiety, which can actually be helpful in some situations. Anxiety crops up during everyday stressors, such as anticipating a phone call about a job offer, a appointment with the dentist, or waiting to hear the outcome of a loved one’s surgery. Anxiety may also be caused by environmental or occupational factors. However, if a person's anxiety becomes excessively frequent and uncontrollable, it has become a disorder. Panic attacks are the next step up from anxiety. An anxiety panic attack is more intense and the feelings experienced are seemingly more uncontrollable. Medications are sometimes prescribed as an effective treatment option for anxiety panic attacks.

Physical symptoms may include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, digestive distress, and fear of dying. The anxiety, worry, or physical symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. In a study conducted in Germany in which kava was given to women suffering from anxiety, depression and other symptoms associated with menopause, the symptoms were relieved, and the women reported an increase in their sense of well-being (see recommendations). Many people with anxiety disorders who cultivate good sleep habits find that their symptoms diminish significantly. A number of techniques may help manage anxiety attack symptoms, such as: Relaxation techniques (meditation, listening to soothing music or having a hot aromatherapy foam bath) Breathing exercises Distraction (putting the anxiety out of one's mind by focusing thoughts on something else).

Sufferers of anxiety-related disorders are thought to have an imbalance or improperly working neurotransmitter system within the brain. Herbal anxiety treatment can alleviate symptoms and move the body’s chemistry back into balance. Remember, anxiety doesn't always go away by itself.

The Down Side of Drugs

Medications are sometimes prescribed as an effective treatment option for anxiety panic attacks. The most commonly prescribed anxiety medications are benzodiazepines, such as Xanax, because they tend to have fewer side effects than anti-depressant medications. As with prescription medications, everyone reacts differently to natural medications, and it can take time to find the right combination and dosage for your body (see recommendations). If you decide to explore options other than medication, natural treatments for anxiety can provide you with safe, effective results, without the risk of side effects that prescription medications pose. Herbal supplements are the precursor to modern prescription medications. Care should be taken when altering any medications or adding supplements to minimize drug interactions. If taking various medications for an illness, remember to first consult your doctor before taking starting any herbal treatment.


Using Herbs for Anxiety Treatment

So how can herbs help heal anxiety. Using herbs for anxiety can work for you, but you must do your homework to be safe. Herbs can be taken individually, or in conjuction with other supplements, but it is best to first consult your doctor before deciding on natural herbs as a treatment for anxiety disorders. Natural herbs are much less costly than medication, and anxiety treatments can consist of herbs, vitamins and botanicals. Found to be good in the treatment of anxiety and insomnia Passion Flower(see recommendations), for example, can be used in the form of dried herbs, tincture or as a liquid extract. There are many natural anxiety treatments available (see recommendations), that have used for treating illnesses for centuries. Herbs can treat anxiety as well as symptoms associated with anxiety, such as depression and insomnia. The anxiety herbs most likely to successfully relieve your anxiety are those backed by solid clinical research.

Using alternative treatments are not only effective but in the case of anxiety herbs, they are probably better and healthier. Do not use alternative medicine in lieu of coping skills and emotional education. Make your goal to reach a state of self-sufficiency and self-reliance, so that eventually you will not need a traditional medical specialist, alternative therapist, or a counseling professional. If you are having panic attacks, combine alternative medicine with cognitive-behavior therapy and learn how to bring panic symptoms under control (see Recommendations). Most conventional doctors are not trained in the use of alternative medicine and therefore do not encourage their patients to give these methods a trial. However, some conventional doctors, recognising the benefits to their patients, have begun to inform themselves about natural and herbal remedies and many are now helping their patients to seek alternatives to the prescription drugs.

Anxiety is a disorder that can be kept under control with different types of natural herbs for anxiety and some simple changes in your life style. It is important that you don’t self medicate even though herbs for anxiety are not known to produce any side effects. Natural herbal supplements for anxiety usually work slower then traditional medicines, when using these treatments be sure to give your body time to adjust. There are some wonderful books about Herbs for Anxiety that can provide a great ongoing reference in obtaining long term mental health (see recommendations). When used as part of a complete wellness plan, herbal treatment for anxiety can be one step toward permanent anxiety relief. With the wide variety of natural remedies available, many people suffering from anxiety can rely on anxiety herbs to help alleviate and treat the symptoms of their disorders. Natural medications are becoming increasingly popular as awareness of their effectivness grows, you may find that they are a better alternative for you as well. Thankfully, anxiety disorders are treatable, using herbs for anxiety can offer you relief from the symptoms of this debilitating disorder.

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countrywomen profile image

countrywomen  says:
8 months ago

And mostly natural herbs don't have side effects but I still would like a medical opinion (some plants have been known to have some side effects hence backed by strong scientific research/medical opinion) before taking any remedies. Thumbs up for a nice hub.

chicamom85 profile image

chicamom85  says:
6 months ago

Very interesting page, it gives me much to think about regarding a problem that I have. Thank you

Cassandra_Evers profile image

Cassandra_Evers  says:
2 months ago

Panic attack disorder can be only be so called "disorder" if the panic attack in uncontrollable.

Cassandra_Evers profile image

Cassandra_Evers  says:
2 months ago

relaxation, medication and exercise are one of the best treatment for panic attack. The intake of medication depends on the condition of the attack. Medication can be taken only if the attack can not be controlled.

Cassandra_Evers profile image

Cassandra_Evers  says:
2 months ago

Alternative is safer than medication. Before taking any medication, the sufferer must consult to the doctor first. Medication causes side effects.

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