Herbal Nootropics for Panic Disorders: A Natural Treatment Approach?

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Herbal Nootropics for Panic Disorders: A Natural Treatment Approach?

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Panic disorder is a mental health condition characterized by sudden and recurrent panic attacks. These attacks can be incredibly debilitating and can interfere with a person’s daily life. While there are a variety of treatments available for panic disorder, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication, some people are turning to herbal nootropics as a potential alternative or complementary treatment.

Herbal nootropics are substances that are derived from plants and are purported to improve cognitive function, memory, creativity, or motivation. While some herbal nootropics have been well-researched and are commonly used, others have little scientific evidence to support their use.

So, can herbal nootropics be effective in treating panic disorder? Let’s take a closer look at the evidence.

Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa monnieri, also known as Brahmi, is an herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It has been studied for its potential to improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety. In one study, Bacopa monnieri was found to improve cognitive performance and reduce anxiety levels in healthy adults (1). Another study found that Bacopa monnieri reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression in elderly adults (2). While these studies are promising, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of Bacopa monnieri in treating panic disorder specifically.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is an herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It has been studied for its potential to reduce anxiety and improve mood. In one study, Ashwagandha was found to reduce symptoms of anxiety and improve mood in patients with anxiety disorders (3). Another study found that Ashwagandha reduced symptoms of anxiety and stress in adults with a history of chronic stress (4). While these studies are promising, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of Ashwagandha in treating panic disorder specifically.

Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola rosea is an herb commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine and in Scandinavian countries. It has been studied for its potential to reduce stress and improve cognitive function. In one study, Rhodiola rosea was found to reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety in adults with a history of chronic stress (5). Another study found that Rhodiola rosea improved cognitive function in healthy adults (6). While these studies are promising, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of Rhodiola rosea in treating panic disorder specifically.

Conclusion

While herbal nootropics may hold promise as a natural treatment approach for panic disorder, more research is needed to determine their effectiveness. It is important to note that herbal nootropics should not be used as a replacement for traditional treatments for panic disorder, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication. As with any supplement, it is important to talk to a healthcare professional before starting to use herbal nootropics.Regenerate response n addition, it is important to use caution when using herbal nootropics, as they can interact with other medications and may cause side effects. For example, Bacopa monnieri can cause digestive issues, fatigue, and nausea, while Ashwagandha can cause gastrointestinal upset and headache (7).

References:

  1. Stough, C., Lloyd, J., Clarke, J., Downey, L. A., Hutchison, C. W., Rodgers, T., & Nathan, P. J. (2001). The chronic effects of an extract of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects. Psychopharmacology, 156(4), 481-484.
  2. Calabrese, C., Gregory, W. L., Leo, M., Kraemer, D., Bone, K., & Oken, B. (2008). Effects of a standardized Bacopa monnieri extract on cognitive performance, anxiety, and depression in the elderly: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 14(6), 707-713.
  3. Andrade, C., Aswath, A., Chaturvedi, S. K., Srinivasa, M., & Raguram, R. (2000). A double-blind, placebo-controlled evaluation of the anxiolytic efficacy ff an ethanolic extract of Withania somnifera. Indian Journal of Psychiatry, 42(3), 295-301.
  4. Chandrasekhar, K., Kapoor, J., & Anishetty, S. (2012). A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of Ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, 34(3), 255-262.
  5. Edwards, D., Heufelder, A., & Zimmermann, A. (2012). Therapeutic effects and safety of Rhodiola rosea extract NR11 in subjects with mild to moderate depression, burnout, and anxiety. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 8, 347-357.
  6. Shevtsov, V. A., Zholus, B. I., Shervarly, V. I., Vol’skij, V. B., Korovin, Y. P., Khristova, O. D., … & Reiner, M. F. (2003). A randomized trial of two different doses of a SHR-5 Rhodiola rosea extract versus placebo and control of capacity for mental work. Phytomedicine, 10(2-3), 95-105.
  7. Natural Medicines Database. (2021). Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri). Retrieved from https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/databases/food,-herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=761
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