Narcotics are drugs that belong to the opiate family, such as heroin, morphine and codeine. Narcotics act as powerful pain relievers and mood enhancers that can cause physical and psychological dependence with prolonged use. Attempting to quit narcotics after long-term administration can lead to withdrawal, which is characterized by gastrointestinal discomfort, pain and low mood. While there is no known cure for narcotic withdrawal, natural remedies can help alleviate individual symptoms, making the overall process less burdensome.
Passionflower
Passionflower is a supplement derived from the plant Passiflora incarnata. It is often used to treat anxiety and insomnia and may be especially useful in people enduring opiate withdrawal. According to the National Institutes of Health, passionflower increases the efficacy of the prescription drug clonidine in reducing mental and emotional symptoms of narcotic withdrawal.
Passionflower can cause interactions with other herbs and medicines, so talk to your doctor before taking it. Nausea, dizziness and drowsiness are possible side effects of passionflower.
Ginger Root
Ginger is a multi-purpose herb with many possible roles in treating narcotic withdrawal. According to the National Institutes of Health, ginger is comparable to the motion sickness drug Dramamine in its ability to relieve nausea--a common symptom of opiate withdrawal. It is also less likely to cause drowsiness, sedation and other side effects associated with Dramamine and other antihistamines.
As an added bonus, ginger is an effective anti-inflammatory agent that can help relieve joint and muscle pain caused by narcotic withdrawal. The National Institutes of Health state that ginger can be effective for long- and short-term relief of muscle pain due to its ability to inhibit synthesis of leukotrienes and prostaglandins---two chemicals involved in the inflammatory process.
Ginger may be taken as a powder or eaten whole for its beneficial effects. Taking ginger with other anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen may increase the risk for bleeding, however.
Valerian
Valeriana officianalis, sometimes referred to as "nature's Valium," is a popular herbal relaxant. Like passionflower, it can be used to take the edge off withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, insomnia and mood swings.
Valerian affects GABA---a neurotransmitter associated with calmness, muscle relaxation and sleep. Its effects are sometimes compared to those of depressant drugs like alcohol, diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam (Xanax), all of which act on the same neurotransmitter system.
Valerian can cause side effects like drowsiness, dizziness and nausea. Avoid taking it with other sedating drugs or herbs, as this can magnify these side effects. Don't attempt to drive under the influence of valerian until you know how it affects you.
References
- National Institutes of Health: Passionflower in the treatment of opiates withdrawal: a double-blind randomized controlled trial.
- National Institutes of Health: A randomized comparison of ginger and dimenhydrinate in the treatment of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy.
- National Institutes of Health: Ginger (Zingiber officinale) in rheumatism and musculoskeletal disorders.
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