Anxiety
and Panic
First
off, it is important to distinguish this pattern from one of generalized
nervous system excess (see protocol), in that it usually contains
one or more constitutional elements of deficiency (insomnia, digestive
deficiency, adrenal deficiency). The treatment goal becomes two-fold:
an initial (and very temporary) herbal anxiolytic, coupled with
and followed by nervous system, digestive, and adrenal tonification.
Panic can include a variety of symptoms, including heart palpitations,
chest pain or tightness, asthma-like shortness of breath, dizziness,
flushing, nausea, and trembling. Unconsciousness, though more rare,
may result.
Treatment Goal(s):
· Reduce anxiety, lessen symptoms of panic, tonify nervous
system and adrenals.
Primary
Treatment:
· Administer Piper methysticum (Kava-kava) short-term. If
this is too strong, or there is potential for substance abuse, or
in pregnancy, use Passiflora incarnata (Passionflower) as a mild
non-sedating anxiolytic.
· Use Avena sativa (Oats) and Scutellaria lateriflora (Scullcap)
to provide nervous system support.
Supportive
Treatment:
· Aromatherapy using Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) and
Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender) as needed to relieve anxiety.
· Controlled exposure to anxiety-causing stimuli under the
supervision of a qualified care provider can be very helpful.
· Adrenal tonification using Withania somniferum (Ashwagandha)
and Panax quinquefolius (American Ginseng) may be helpful.
· Consider dietary triggers for nervous system inflammation;
an elimination diet may be indicated, especially if there are other
symptoms of inflammation in the physiology.
· Counseling can be an important part of treatment.
Differential diagnoses, cautions, and other considerations:
· Do not use anxiolytics for more than 6 weeks, as depressive
/ deficiency symptoms may develop and/or exacerbate.
· In case of severe panic attacks coupled with unconsciousness,
refer to a qualified care provider.
· For digestive and liver sluggishness, consider Verbena
hastata (Blue Vervain).
· Rule out reactions to prescription or recreational drugs
as precipitating factors.
