Herbs to Aid in Drug Withdrawal

Drug withdrawal occurs when a person discontinues the use of a drug after taking it for an extended period of time. Symptoms vary according to the substance used, but can include nausea, fatigue, depression and general malaise. Herbal remedies can be used to treat individual symptoms of drug withdrawal, making the overall process easier.

Opiate Withdrawal

Opiate withdrawal affects the entire body. Symptoms often include flu-like symptoms, diarrhea, nausea, pain and insomnia. Fortunately, there are a variety of herbal remedies for most of these symptoms.

The herbs ginger and peppermint make excellent remedies for nausea and vomiting. According to PubMed.gov, ginger is as effective as the over-the-counter drug Dramamine at relieving certain types of nausea. Kava and valerian are great for treating the insomnia and anxiety of opiate withdrawal, as are the sedating herbs catnip, passionflower and skullcap.

To ease the depression and low mood that often accompany opiate withdrawal, St. John's wort and 5-HTP are two excellent options. They work by increasing serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for mood, sleep patterns and other states of being. Other helpful over-the-counter antidepressant supplements include SAM-e and DHEA, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

Stimulant Withdrawal

Stimulant withdrawal can be exhausting. Symptoms may include nausea, extreme fatigue, clouded thinking and depression. Stimulating herbs are great for easing the low energy and depression associated with stimulant withdrawal. Yerba mate has MAO-inhibiting properties and is especially useful for fatigue accompanied by depression. Korean ginseng offers an instant energy boost, while Siberian ginseng can help replenish exhausted adrenal glands over time. Other stimulating herbs include gotu kola, guarana and ephedra, though the latter two are sometimes associated with negative side effects.

To ease brain fog associated with stimulant withdrawal, ginkgo biloba is helpful. It increases oxygen flow to the brain, resulting in clearer thinking. B-complex vitamins are also vital in restoring energy and vitality following stimulant use.

General Drug Detox Tips

Quitting drugs of any kind can be a difficult experience physically and emotionally. To decrease unnecessary stress, aim for eight hours of quality sleep each night and make plenty of time for relaxing activities. Eat a nutrient-rich diet and exercise daily as soon as you are able. Taking vitamin and mineral supplements can help replace nutrients depleted by drug use and is a great addition to a balanced diet. Treat withdrawal as you would a case of the flu, with plenty of bed rest and self-care.

Warnings and Safety

Withdrawal from some drugs can be dangerous if done improperly. Contact a medical professional before attempting to quit benzodiazepines, alcohol or GHB to avoid seizures and other complications.

References

• PubMed: Study of Nausea and Vomiting Treatments

Resources

• Heroin Withdrawal Remedies
• Natural Cures for Withdrawal Symptoms