A phobia is an irrational fear which the sufferer finds impossible to overcome. Some of the most common fears are claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces), agoraphobia (fear of open spaces), and acrophobia (fear of heights). A phobia can, however, relate to just about any object, person, or situation, and is probably caused by a subconscious reflex to avoid repeating an unpleasant experience. For the sufferer it may cause little more than mild embarrassment, or it may be totally debilitating and disruptive to everyday life. An estimated 10 percent of people in the U.K., and slightly more in the U.S., suffer from phobias of some description. Recent research indicates that most sufferers can cure themselves.
Symptoms
• rapid pulse
• profuse sweating
• high blood pressure
• trembling
• nausea
TREATMENT
Ayurveda
Lemon or lime may be suggested for dizziness, and individual treatment would be prescribed according to your specific needs. Chinese Herbalism A herbalist may suggest cooling herbs, and Gui Pi Wan, which addresses emotional problems. Ginseng, Chinese angelica and senega root may also be useful.
Herbalism
Valerian tea can help to reduce tension. Drink an infusion as required.
Aromatherapy
Essential oils can be very useful in the treatment of phobias. The effect of certain smells can help to release tension and induce a feeling of calm. Some of the best oils to try are: bergamot, chamomile, clary sage, geranium, jasmine, juniper, lavender, marjoram, melissa, and ylang ylang, which are sedative. They can be used in the bath, in massage with a light carrier oil (such as sweet almond), or in a vaporizer. Carry a bottle of diluted oils with you—perhaps in a small sprayer—and apply them to the temples or pulse points in times of fear.
Homeopathy
There are dozens of homeopathic remedies which can be used to treat phobias, but they will be prescribed constitutionally, that is, the treatment would be tailored to your exact needs. Some to try may be:
• Arg. nit., for fear of heights.
• Phosphorus, for fear of the dark.
• Gelsemium, for fear of performing in public, when you feel weak at the knees.
• Aconite, for agoraphobia, when you are terrified of dying or collapsing if you go out.
• Arnica, for fears that are brought on by an accident.
• Sulfur, when you need help and no other remedy seems to be indicated.
Flower Essences
Treatment would be based on your individual state of mind, but some of the following may help:
• Mimulus, for the everyday fears of known things, spiders, being late for work, flying, and being ill.
• Aspen is for unknown fears, the vague and dark fears which hover and play on the imagination.
• Rock Rose should be added when the fear is turning into terror and perhaps even panic.
• Cherry Plum is for the fear that everything will fall apart.
• Red Chestnut is for fear for another’s safety.
The most important Bach Flower Remedy for fear, anxiety, and phobias, Rescue Remedy, is made up of five essences: Cherry Plum, Rock Rose, Impatiens, Clematis, and Star of Bethlehem. It works to treat fear, loneliness, despondency, and loss of focus. It rebalances the sufferer after an emotional upset and is particularly useful in panic attacks. Apply a few drops of the remedy to your tongue or pulse points.
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamin B-complex and C are important for nerve functioning. Ensure that you eat regular meals, since low blood sugar can exacerbate the problem.
Sunday, 12 January 2014
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