Natural Remedies for Anxiety

October 13, 2009 by John  
Filed under Alternative Medicine

The hustle and bustle of modern life has caused a near epidemic of chronic anxiety. Many experts believe that upwards of 50% of the population suffers periodic bouts of debilitating anxiety symptoms, and all too often, doctors attempt to treat these conditions with medications. Many of these anti-anxiety medications have detrimental side effects and even withdrawal symptoms, but fortunately, there are also natural remedies for anxiety that can calm the inner turmoil and restore balance to life.

While many experts dispute the idea that anxiety is a “disorder,” nearly everyone agrees that dealing with a chronic anxiety problem reduces our ability to function effectively in the world, and can even negatively affect the immune system.

The most common symptoms of anxiety include irritability, chronic worrying, insomnia, feelings of panic, grinding teeth, tightness in the chest, heart palpitations, shallow breathing and stomach discomfort. It is important to note that these are just a few of the more common symptoms; a complete list of possible anxiety symptoms would likely number well into the thousands, as every unique individual experiences anxiety in a slightly different way.

In North America, the most common way to treat anxiety issues involves the use of medications. But natural remedies for anxiety are often more effective, and have the advantage of not producing the unwanted side effects or withdrawal symptoms. The following herbs and natural remedies have all shown promise in decreasing, or in some cases eliminating, anxiety.

Kava. Kava is a natural herb that has been used as a remedy for anxiety for decades in Europe. This natural treatment has been studied in several university sponsored trials in Europe, and the evidence suggests that it can be effective in controlling anxiety. However, because of recent concerns about Kava’s effect on the liver, the herb is now less frequently used in Europe, though it is still available in the United States in lower dosages.

Skullcap. Skullcap is a natural herb that has traditionally been used as a remedy for anxiety. Although there is only limited research available on its effectiveness, one double-blind, placebo controlled study found that skullcap was effective in reducing anxiety levels.

Passionflower. Passionflower is another herb that shows promise in treating chronic anxiety. One clinically controlled study compared passion flower to Oxazepam in 36 individuals reporting generalized anxiety symptoms. Although the results of the trial showed that Oxezepam relieved anxiety more quickly, Passionflower was found to be equally effective over a four-week period. Passionflower also showed no significant side effects or withdrawal symptoms.

Melatonin. Melatonin supplements have been studied extensively for their ability to promote restful sleep. In the past few years, melatonin has also been the subject of anxiety research. One study found that melatonin was as effective as prescription anti-anxiety medication in relieving pre-surgery stress in women. Smaller studies have shown similar results for both women and men.

Besides these and other natural remedies for anxiety, there are also alternative treatment options including acupuncture, biofeedback, relaxation therapies, meditation, guided visualization, and aromatherapy. Unfortunately, most of these alternatives have not been studied at length, and therefore it is difficult to assess exactly how effective any specific treatment may be. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that relaxation therapy and guided visualization can significantly improve both chronic anxiety and panic attacks. Used in conjunction with other natural remedies for anxiety, these alternative treatments show great promise.

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How to Treat Anxiety

October 13, 2009 by John  
Filed under Alternative Medicine




Anxiety can affect groups and whole societies as well as individuals. There has been, for almost a decade in the United States, a mass fear of terrorist attack, brought on by the 2001 attack of 9/11. It is difficult, however, to maintain a high level of anxiety over a long period without it being considered a disorder. This is why it was decided, during World War II, that soldiers cannot be kept in the continual anxiety of combat situations for more than a year without suffering serious mental damage. Get your motor running, since laziness will not help you get rid of anxiety and panic. Most people in the world are lazy, since they fail to remove the obstacles in their mind that causes them anxiety and panic. For instance, if I told you a lie right now that you heard somewhere else, would you verify it. Most times people will listen, go with it, and let it go. Later it comes out and they wonder why it is poses an issue in the mind. The reason is the person was too darn lazy to check the facts. Anxiety and stress it can be controlled and you have the gain energy it yourself . This is the part of your life will be influenced dramatically. The gaze is very used to social anxiety. Emotional and physical symptoms show your ability to function in your daily life activities. Anxiety disorder it can be nasty and devastating. .The music is various cause for the anxiety . Cedar wood oil is the powerful alternative medicine of anxiety. Regular exercise can help relieve stress, depression and anxiety. Exercise releases endorphins into your system and will give you a natural boost. It will also provide you with a break from brooding and dwelling upon problems and troubles – but only if you perform the right kind of exercises. Avoid: Exercises that allow you to brood (weight lifting, jogging, treadmills) and perform exercises that require your full concentration. Competitive sports such as squash, tennis, badminton and circuit training are all excellent examples. If you’re feeling the symptoms of anxiety, it is a good idea to get a professional diagnosis. Emotional symptoms of anxiety include restlessness, fatigue, irritability, an inability to sleep and an irrational fear of social situations. Physical symptoms of anxiety include headaches, shortness of breath, a tight chest and chest pains, a racing heart, sweating at inappropriate times, nausea, cramps, and loose stools. I’ve experienced all of these, and more! Anxiety panic disorder can be stopped if given the proper treatment. There are help available and things you can do to manage panic attacks and here are some helpful tips: Healthy lifestyle. Changing your lifestyle and reducing stress will help you beat anxiety and panic attacks. Maintaining a healthy, less demanding and simpler lifestyle will create a well balanced mind and body. Get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, avoid alcohol, caffeine and nicotine are some of the changes that you need to do to take better control of your body and mind. There are various types for curing anxity. Proper medical treatment is best way to cure this problem. Another is yoga , meditation, exercise, positive thinking. Physiocial theropy is important factor in treatment of anxiety. People with anxiety disorder who have already received treatment must give the details to current doctor.



Prevent or Cure a Panic Attack With Natural Treatments

July 17, 2009 by John  
Filed under Alternative Medicine

 

Your first panic attack should be a learning experience that will help you control attacks in the future. Sometimes people with a panic attack go to the emergency room thinking they are having a heart attack as the symptoms are similar and come on suddenly. You’ll feel things like sudden periods of extreme fear, anxiety, shortness of breath, dizziness, trembling, rapid heart beat, hyperventilation, tingling sensation, nausea, etc. When they learn that it was a panic attack and knowing the difference they can start taking control of their future attacks. This is important because often a panic attack will keep you from even functioning.

Panic attacks are caused by many physical, mental and emotional triggers. Genetics may play a part and females are more apt to get them than men. Allergies or sensitivities to food, drink or chemicals can trigger an attack along with memories or trauma. Alcohol and drug can also cause panic attacks and disorders. Serious and upsetting experiences along with everyday events could trigger an attack.

Panic disorder may lead to “situational avoidance,” where the sufferer feels they have to avoid every place or situation in where attack has occurred and might not even leave their house which could be a very serious disruption to a normal life.

Control subjects were less likely to have panic attacks then patients with panic disorders after both drank a high amount of caffeine, according to results of a small study by Isabella Nascimento, MD, and colleagues at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, in Brazil.

People who had went to a doctor for treatment told me that they were usually told they should avoid caffeine in colas, coffee, chocolate and teaI’ve talked with several people who gave me the following natural treatments they have used to cure or avoid panic attacks without using medicine.

Deep Breathing

One of the best forms of panic attack relief is to simply take deep, slow breaths to prevent hyperventilation. By getting hyperventilation under control you avoid things such as the dizziness and lightheadedness which happens because there is too much oxygen being taken to the brain at one time.

Exercise

This appears to be a one of the best ways of dealing with a panic attack once it’s started. An adrenaline rush usually accompanies an attack and the exercise can bleed it off according to people who use it.

Aroma therapy

After listening to a number of people talk about using aroma therapy to combat panic attacks it appears there are two schools of thought. The first swears by using smells that bring back pleasant memories, such as baby powder, certain flowers, farm animals or barbecuing. The others said that aromas from essential oils or candles were the best.

Meditation

This is a way that several people said helped them from having attacks or by being able to stop them once they started.

Think happy thoughts or take your mind off your problem

Others told me that once an attack started they tried to empty their mind of anything but pleasant things that they had done in the past and it appeared to help them. They also said taking your mind off the attack with things like counting backwards from one hundred was helpful.

The above ways are used by ordinary people to cure or get over a panic attack. In some cases they just can’t do it themselves and need professional help. Below is some information on several different natural methods used to cure people with panic disorders.

Getting Professional Help

Hypnosis

Diane Ulicsni, director of The Hypnosis Center in Lake Oswego, Ore., suffered from chronic panic attacks for many years. She finally found relief through hypnosis and is now a board certified hypnotherapist. She says that hypnosis — recognized by the American Medical Association since 1958 as a form of treatment — is one approach that is non-drug and can greatly ease or even cure panic attacks.

Laugh your panic attacks away?

That’s a good strategy, says Steve Sultanoff, PHD, a clinical psychologist in Irvine, Calif., and past president of the American Association for Therapeutic Humor. He uses humor visualization with his panic attack patients, telling them to imagine themselves in a situation where they’ve laughed uncontrollably. When they have a panic situation, they are able to return to the picture of themselves laughing.

Cognitive Behavorial Therapy

James D Herbert, PHD, associate professor of clinical psychology at MCP Hahnemann University in Philadelphia, says that cognitive behavioral therapy is his choice for treating panic disorders. Cognitive-behavior therapy is made up of two parts: One is to identify and modify the thinking patterns that produces anxiety (cognitive therapy), and lessening anxiety by exposing the patient to fearful scenarios (behavior therapy).

If you suffer from panic attacks try some of the treatments listed above. They have worked for people I talked with and maybe they’ll work for you too.

Sources

Natural Panic Attack Treatments http://www.webmd.com/balance/features/natural-panic-attack-treatments?page=1

James D Herbert, PHD http://www.academyofct.org/Library/InfoManage/Guide.asp?FolderID=153&SessionID=

 

 

 

 

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Alternatives to Anxiety Medications

July 11, 2009 by John  
Filed under Medicine

Anxiety cannot be avoided. It is a fact of life. Our society is facing a fast-paced lifestyle and sometimes, not all people are inclined into doing things at a faster rate. More often than not, people tend to feel anxious or worried with things, situations, or activities that may not suit their schedule or mood at the same point in time.

 

However, there are several anxiety treatment that can be done in several approaches, depending on the person’s choice. There are others who may opt for anxiety medications, which can really do the trick sometimes, but then again, can cause side effects that may increase their feelings of discomfort. But there are other choices.

 

Studies on the use of alternative medicine have revealed effective herbal remedies for anxiety that are capable of relieving stress, tension, and unwanted fear, instead of taking anxiety medications that can cause much unwanted effects on the user. For all natural anxiety remedies, passion flower (Passiflora incarnata) is used to cure insomnia and has been historically used as a sedative. Passion flower can ease “nervous” gastrointestinal complaints, and is said to be able to reduce nervous tremors and lower high blood pressure.

 

Another natural remedy for anxiety would be through the use of Lavender, or lavandula augustifolia. Lavender is a general tonic for the nervous system, and is well-known for its calming properties, making it one of the most effective of natural panic attack and anxiety herbal remedies. Whilr Lemon Balm or Melissa Officinalis, is used as a restorative for the nervous system. which can also calm the digestive system, and reduces blood pressure as well, Catnip, or Nepeta Cataria, has a soothing effect that efficiently relieves anxiety. It has a sharp fragrance and is attractive and exciting to cats, which enjoys eating catnip.

 

Meanwhile, Fennel, or foeniculum vulgare, acts by relieving gastrointestinal problems, and is also used widely in Italy as an aromatic condiment and as medication too. Kava is another herbal remedy that helps in minimizing the feelings of anxiety. Kava tincture or capsule is made from the dried roots and rhizome from the bush of the pepper. Hop, or humulus lupulus, has a bitterflavor and aroma. This herbal anxiety remedy is used as a sedative and can cause a relaxing effect on the nervous system. Motherwort, or Leonurus, has rather a pungent odor and has a very bitter taste. Despite this, it helps stabilize emotions and has a calming effect on the user, therefore decreasing the feelings of anxiety.

 

Skullcap is also called helmet flower for the shape of the flowers, which resembles a knight’s helmet with the visor up. The tincture or capsules of this kind would help relax and nourish the nervous system and at the same time, induces sleep. Saint John’s Wort, or Hypericum perforatum, is commonly used as an alternative medicine for the treatment of mild depression. The flowers of the plant have been used for centuries in order to heal skin wounds and to treat depression, anxiety, and insomnia as well. These herbal remedies can bring wellness to a person with anxiety, thus recommended than using anxiety medications that can have the possibility to harm the body.

 

Anxiety cannot be avoided. It is a fact of life. Our society is facing a fast-paced lifestyle and sometimes, not all people are inclined into doing things at a faster rate. More often than not, people tend to feel anxious or worried with things, situations, or activities that may not suit their schedule or mood at the same point in time.

 

However, there are several anxiety treatment that can be done in several approaches, depending on the person’s choice. There are others who may opt for anxiety medications, which can really do the trick sometimes, but then again, can cause side effects that may increase their feelings of discomfort. But there are other choices.

 

Studies on the use of alternative medicine have revealed effective herbal remedies for anxiety that are capable of relieving stress, tension, and unwanted fear, instead of taking anxiety medications that can cause much unwanted effects on the user. For all natural anxiety remedies, passion flower (Passiflora incarnata) is used to cure insomnia and has been historically used as a sedative. Passion flower can ease “nervous” gastrointestinal complaints, and is said to be able to reduce nervous tremors and lower high blood pressure.

 

Another natural remedy for anxiety would be through the use of Lavender, or lavandula augustifolia. Lavender is a general tonic for the nervous system, and is well-known for its calming properties, making it one of the most effective of natural panic attack and anxiety herbal remedies. Whilr Lemon Balm or Melissa Officinalis, is used as a restorative for the nervous system. which can also calm the digestive system, and reduces blood pressure as well, Catnip, or Nepeta Cataria, has a soothing effect that efficiently relieves anxiety. It has a sharp fragrance and is attractive and exciting to cats, which enjoys eating catnip.

 

Meanwhile, Fennel, or foeniculum vulgare, acts by relieving gastrointestinal problems, and is also used widely in Italy as an aromatic condiment and as medication too. Kava is another herbal remedy that helps in minimizing the feelings of anxiety. Kava tincture or capsule is made from the dried roots and rhizome from the bush of the pepper. Hop, or humulus lupulus, has a bitterflavor and aroma. This herbal anxiety remedy is used as a sedative and can cause a relaxing effect on the nervous system. Motherwort, or Leonurus, has rather a pungent odor and has a very bitter taste. Despite this, it helps stabilize emotions and has a calming effect on the user, therefore decreasing the feelings of anxiety.

 

Skullcap is also called helmet flower for the shape of the flowers, which resembles a knight’s helmet with the visor up. The tincture or capsules of this kind would help relax and nourish the nervous system and at the same time, induces sleep. Saint John’s Wort, or Hypericum perforatum, is commonly used as an alternative medicine for the treatment of mild depression. The flowers of the plant have been used for centuries in order to heal skin wounds and to treat depression, anxiety, and insomnia as well. These herbal remedies can bring wellness to a person with anxiety, thus recommended than using anxiety medications that can have the possibility to harm the body.

 

 

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Different Forms Of Anxiety Treatment

June 28, 2009 by John  
Filed under Medicine




At one time or another we have all experienced anxiety; a natural reaction to particular stressors in our lives. Juggling career demands, personal relationships, and family schedules can provoke anyone to have moments when the anxiety becomes palpable and manifests itself in a number of physical symptoms. It is only when anxiety is persistent and pervasive – interfering with everyday activities – which sufferers turn to anxiety treatment to help manage their symptoms and bring balance and order back into their life.

Anxiety treatment – like the anxiety that we experience – is varied; depending on the severity and frequency of the episodes and the personal needs of the sufferer. Those battling ongoing anxiety often experience persistent heightened levels of panic and fear – either in general or in response to particular situations. The treatment that will bring relief must be decided between patient and doctor and only comes after a comprehensive examination and proper diagnosis.

Most often, those who turn to treatment options are experiencing what has been defined as anxiety disorder – an umbrella diagnosis that refers to many different forms of anxiety including panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety, and general anxiety disorder. Not every treatment works for every sufferer so it is vitally important that each person who seeks treatment does so in accordance with their medical practitioner. Your doctor will be able to run a series of tests to first ensure that the symptoms experienced as a result of anxiety are not instead manifestations of a physical ailment or disease.

Once anxiety has been diagnosed, a treatment plan is put into place. One such anxiety treatment is what as known as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is conducted by a licensed therapist – a reputable practioner that your primary doctor can recommend – and focuses on changing the thinking and behavior of the anxiety sufferer. Individual catalysts of anxiety are identified with each patient – particular situations that most often provoke anxiety. Once these provocations are identified, the therapist can then work with the patient to put tools in place to help the patient work through the anxiety during particular situations. Often – after much work has been done – the therapist will expose the patient to situations that provoke stress; in some cases, frequent exposure can actually desensitize the patient to the situation and anxiety levels are lowered considerably. CBT can take months to fully reveal its benefits. But often it is well worth the work as patients can learn to manage their anxiety without the use of medications.

Holistic anxiety treatment is another method used to manage anxiety. Such treatments include the taking of herbal remedies that have been shown to have effectiveness in anxiety management. However, it is important to work with a doctor in determining what herbal treatments may work for you; some are not recommended in conjunction with other medication so it is important to proceed with care. Other patients report success with such therapies as acupuncture, biofeedback – a form of self-hypnosis – and other relaxation techniques such as meditation, and therapeutic massage.

When anxiety continues even after the implementation of therapy and holistic remedies, a doctor may prescribe medication to help control anxiety symptoms. Luckily, medical advancements have made medication safe and effective when used under the care of a doctor; and many people report substantial success with the help of medications. Your doctor can prescribe the medication that is most likely to work with your particular situation.

Finally, it is important to take extra care of yourself if you suffer from anxiety. Anxiety treatment also relies on the patient knowing to what best their body responds. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and plentiful sleep can go a long way toward helping lower anxiety levels.



Living With Anxiety

June 12, 2009 by John  
Filed under Medicine




erybody feels anxious and nervous right before doing something really important, be it a thesis paper presentation, a job interview, or a midterm exam we did not get to review for. It is the body’s normal reaction to tense and stressful situations. Anxiety is simply the body’s natural “fight-or-flight” response to warn us of possible dangers ahead.

But what happens when anxiety becomes too overwhelming? What if you start fearing and worrying over the littlest of things that it prevents you from functioning normally? You may already be developing an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety disorders

An anxiety disorder refers to many different kinds of abnormal and irrational anxieties or fears. People with anxiety disorders may experience having intense panic attacks that appear from out of nowhere, some in the form of eccentric obsessions and compulsions. Some people develop extreme fear over things that generally don’t bother other people.

Anxiety disorder comes in many forms, the most common being:

Generalized anxiety disorder.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Panic disorder.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Phobias.

Separation anxiety.

Social anxiety disorder.

But despite having many different kinds, all of the above mentioned forms of anxiety have one thing in common – a persistent and intensely overwhelming fear or worry.

Anxiety or panic attacks

Anxiety attacks, also called panic attacks, are sudden, acute episodes of intense anxiety and feelings of panic. Like what was mentioned earlier, these attacks happen without warning. And even if the fear is irrational, the sufferer perceives the threat as real. Here are some of the physical symptoms felt during an anxiety attack:

shortness of breath

dizziness

palpitations or pounding heart

nausea or stomach distress

chest pain or discomfort

hot or cold flashes.

Here are some of the emotional and psychological symptoms of having an anxiety or panic attack:

apprehension, uneasiness, and dread

confusion, impaired concentration or selective attention

restlessness and irritability

avoidance and a strong desire to escape

hypervigilance

nervousness and jumpiness

self-consciousness and insecurity

Treatment

Anxiety disorders is not a simple matter, it takes a serious toll on the sufferer’s life as well as those around him. Having an anxiety disorder can lead to having low self-esteem, depression, and/or substance abuse. But the good news is, anxiety disorders are highly manageable and treatable.

Here are some of the most commonly suggested treatment for anxiety disorders:

Medications

Thanks to modern science, scientists are coming up with more and more medications to help mental health professionals in managing and treating anxiety attacks. Anti-anxiety medications are often prescribed by psychologists to help sufferers to function normally in society.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy

This treatment is also known as psychotherapy or talk therapy. With this therapy, deep-rooted reasons for the anxieties are expressed and dealt with. Resolving underlying issues have been proven helpful in gradually relieving sufferers from their anxieties and eventually fully get rid of their irrational fears. Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps sufferers create a different response to certain situations where anxiety and panic attacks are triggered.

Coping with anxiety maybe difficult but it definitely possible. With determination and strong will from the sufferer’s part, and professional help from psychologists and anti-anxiety medications, people with anxiety disorders will soon be able to lead normal lives again.