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Questions & Answers:
Alternative Therapies
Q. Hi!!!
I have a friend who suffers from panic attacks about once a month or
so and he refuses to take medication to help control it. So, I was
wondering if an alternative therapy would be helpful. For example,
is there a specific essential oil (for aromatherapy) that could be
particularly useful for him?
A. Well, there are quite a few natural remedies available
and can be easily obtained over counter at the local pharmacy.
People have found St
John's Wart and Kava Kava helpful. These are herbs for mild
anxiety and depression. As far as aromatherapy, people find Lavender
oil is very useful for the anxiety symptoms, especially tension
related. For more severe anxiety, the following aromatherapy oils
may be of help: Benzoin, Bergamot, Camomile, Cedarwood, Clary sage,
Cypress, Frankincense, Geranium, Hyssop, Jasmine, Juniper, Marjoram,
Melissa, Neroli, Patchouli, Rose, Sandalwood, Verbena, Ylang Ylang.
Of course, it does come down to personal choice.
Aromatherapy works harmoniously with all anxiety
reduction techniques such as meditation,
relaxation
techniques, yoga. It is important for your friend to get a
diagnosis also. This will stop the "what if" thinking
style which may start to dominate their thinking. If the panic
attacks develop in to a Panic Disorder, that is, the fear of having
another panic attack, I would strongly recommend for your friend to
get the assistance of a Cognitive Behavior Therapist who will teach
them the appropriate cognitive
techniques to work with the panic attacks and recover from the
Disorder.
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