Herbs for Anxiety Attacks

Anxiety can be caused by a number of things including depression, stress, life issues, work issues, nervousness and family problems. Some people start to have anxiety attacks after a traumatic experience. Anxiety attacks make them feel like they cannot breathe, and they may think you are dying. People may feel lightheaded, start to shake, and have shortness of breath. While there are prescription medications to treat anxiety attacks, they may be addictive. Some prescriptions are expensive, and health insurance may not cover their full cost. In addition, some medications can cause serious side effects. There are some all natural herbs to help control anxiety attacks.

Kava

• Kava is a great herb that can help lift a person's spirits, and make them feel happier. Kava has been known to work quickly in treating anxiety attacks, possibly within the first week of taking it. It is a nonaddictive herb that also can treat postmenopausal depression. For best results, use kava as a tea to help curb anxiety attacks.

Ginseng

• Ginseng is an all-natural, anti-anxiety treatment. It can be used to reduce stress and enhance health. Ginseng has tonic properties to help people maintain their emotional balance. To treat anxiety attacks, drink ginseng in a tea, add it to food, or take it in supplement form.

Valerian Root

• Valerian root has been found to work well in treating anxiety attacks. It acts as a sedative, relaxant and a tranquilizer to reduce symptoms. In addition, valerian root can reduce stress, agitation, anxiety and shakiness. This herb is all natural and nonaddictive.

Catnip

• Catnip is a member of the mint family. It contains a substance that works similarly to valerian root, and helps control nervousness and sleeplessness. Catnip also can treat ailments such as cancer, toothaches, corns and migraines. In addition, catnip can relax muscles and heal minor tissue injuries.

Damiana

• Besides anxiety attacks, damiana also can help with male and female hormone problems, and increase sexual desire. Damiana is actually a small shrub whose aromatic leaves can be made into a tea. It also can be found in supplements and tincture form.