Panic Attacks
Panic attacks can occur with an anxiety disorder. Panic attacks can also occur in people with other mental disorders (like depression). Some panic attacks occur in response to a particular situation. For example, someone with a snake phobia can panic when they see a snake. Other attacks occur for no apparent reason.
Symptoms
What To Expect
When having a panic attack a sudden rush of fear and discomfort goes through your body. During panic attacks, the affected person is attacked by massive fear. Many patients are convinced that a threatening physical cause triggers the symptoms. This even puts some of them in mortal fear.
Made Worse By
The causes of panic disorders are not fully understood. Though it is now clear that genetic factors play a role. Many factors can worsen or even be the cause of panic attacks. A traumatic childhood can lead to regular panic attacks. People with increased anxiety are particularly at risk of developing panic attacks. Severe stress (e.g. as a result of partner conflicts, unemployment, existential worries) can promote the onset of a panic disorder. Substances such as alcohol, caffeine and various drugs also promote the occurrence of panic attacks. Cigarettes in particular often do not have the assumed calming effect: nicotine usually has a stimulating effect on the body.
How Common
Panic attacks are relatively common and occur in at least 11 percent of adults each year. Most people recover from panic attacks without treatment, but some develop a panic disorder.
Diagnosed By
If you suspect a panic disorder, you can first consult your family doctor. He will have a conversation with you and carry out various examinations to rule out physical causes of the symptoms. For an exact diagnosis of the panic disorder and to determine whether other mental disorders are present, the family doctor will refer you to a therapist or a psychosomatic clinic.
Products that may help Panic Attacks
Herbs that may help Panic Attacks
Remedies that may help with Panic Attacks
Herbs To Help Your Panic Attacks
Some herbs can have a calming effect on the body. The listed herbs are natural remedies for panic attacks and anxiety.
- Use one of the herb listed to make an infusion.
- Drink up to 600 ml a day.
Anxiety Relieving Infusion
St. John's wort can relieve anxiety and have a positive effect on nervous restlessness.
- Make an infusion of the herb.
- Drink up to 600 ml a day.
- Alternatively, take tablets.
Anti-Anxiety Remedy
Skullcap has been identified as an effective anti-anxiety remedy. It has calming and antispasmodic properties that relieve the inner tension of anxiety.
- Use Scutellaria lateriflora (American skullcap), not Chinese skullcap. Only the dried aerial parts (leaves and stems) are used.
- Measure 1–2 teaspoons (about 1–2 grams) of dried skullcap per 8 oz (240 ml) of water.
- Bring fresh water to a boil, then remove it from heat.
- Pour the hot water over the dried herb in a mug or teapot.
- Cover the container to prevent volatile compounds from escaping
- Let the infusion steep for 10–15 minutes to extract its active compounds.
- Strain out the herb before drinking.
- Drink up to 3 cups (750 ml) per day, spaced out to help with anxiety and tension.
- Optionally, combine with calming herbs like lemon balm, chamomile, or passionflower for enhanced effects.
Caution Skullcap is usually safe in moderate doses but may cause drowsiness in high amounts. Rare liver issues have been linked to contamination. It should be avoided during pregnancy and can interact with sedatives, anxiety meds, or alcohol.
Disclaimer This is for educational use only. Consult a healthcare professional before using herbs, especially if pregnant, nursing, on medication, or managing a health condition.