Natural Herbal Remedies for Claustrophobia

NATURAL HERBAL REMEDIES

So you don't want to put anything in your body that isn't natural but you don't think you can do the time in the MRI machine without something 'extra' beyond simply trying to calm yourself? Then a natural herbal remedy might be your answer. Of course there are caveats here as well so do your research well beyond this article first.

Natural herbal medicines have long been recommended as a way to treat anxiety, even claustrophobia. And not for the last few decades mind you, but for centuries. During that time, a few herbs have stood out as ones that may help to reduce claustrophobia. Two in particular are passionflower and kava.

History tells us North American Natives used passionflower effectively as a sedative. Or as the scientist say, Passiflora incarnata. Herbalists have also endorsed this herb as a treatment for a number of disorders, including insomnia. But it's primarily use by them has bee as a treatment for drug addiction and anxiety, including claustrophobia.

Kava on the other hand is a type of pepper native to the islands of the South Pacific and said to hold the same sort of remedy for anxiety. Stop. Hold on... Pepper for anxiety? Well kava has often been used as an alternative remedy for menopausal symptoms, insomnia and, yes, is believed to also help to alleviate claustrophobia. However, even natural remedies such as kava come with risks.

Passionflower and kava may be taken in tablets or capsules, or you may prefer to take these herbs as teas or tinctures. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking 200 mg of kava two to four times daily to help to reduce symptoms of mild to moderate anxiety.

There are other natural herbs that have been noted as helping anxiety. Scutellaria laterifolia (Scullcap) and Valerian have been written up as herbs that help the body or mind release themselves from fear. Hypericum perforatum, which is more commonly known as St John’s Wort, is said to balance the serotonin level and reduces the anxiety. It's easy to find and just ask a few professional golfers on the PGA Tour how it worked for them.

All in all, if you are looking for a more holistic approach to managing your MRI proceedure anxiety, natural herbs may very well promote a sense of well being for you and sooth your uneasy nerves during the test. And hey, one of the most attractive parts is that these herbs have little or no side effects. But please...

Always, always, always get medical clearance before using any of these herbs in any amount. There are a number of side effects that can happen based on the individual's health and body. Doctors recommend you avoid taking any herbs of you are pregnant or breast-feeding.