Drug detoxification is the process by which the mind and body adapt to functioning without drugs after prolonged periods of use. Symptoms vary greatly depending on the drug in question, though lethargy, irritability, increased pain sensitivity and nausea are common effects. In some cases, herbal supplements can help ease symptoms of drug withdrawal. Learning about the different herbs to help with drug detox can help simplify the overall process and increase your chances for success.
Please consult your physician before attempting herbal treatments at home.
Energizing Herbs
Herbs with stimulant properties can be useful for restoring energy and motivation during drug withdrawal. As an added bonus, many such herbs act as diuretics to increase urine production and speed the detoxification process.
Yerba mate is a popular energizing herb. It contains caffeine and other compounds from the xanthine family, making it helpful for temporarily boosting energy levels. Due to its mild monoamine oxidase inhibiting properties, yerba mate may be less likely than other caffeinated substances to cause side effects such as anxiety, insomnia or irritability, though these effects may still occur.
Other popular stimulating herbs include Sida cordifolia, guarana and Korean ginseng. Side effects of energizing herbs may include restlessness, anxiety, rapid heartbeat and sleeplessness.
Calming Herbs
Sedating herbs are those that promote feelings of relaxation and tranquility. Valerian, kava and passionflower are among the most well-known relaxing herbs. They are commonly used to alleviate symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety and muscle tension, all of which can occur during drug detox. According to the National Institutes of Health, passionflower significantly increases the effectiveness of clonidine in relieving opiate withdrawal symptoms, making it a useful adjunctive therapy for this purpose.
Side effects of depressant herbs may include dizziness, nausea and drowsiness. Avoid taking these herbs with alcohol and other sedating substances, as this can increase the intensity of side effects.
Pain-Relieving Herbs
Painkilling herbs can be very useful during drug detox. Ginger is a multi-purpose herb that you can take to relieve both pain and nausea associated with drug detox. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ginger is comparable to ibuprofen in its ability to kill pain, and physicians sometimes prescribe it to treat arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Other supplements with similar effects include white willow bark, cherry extract and turmeric.
Taking anti-inflammatory herbs with other blood thinners or pain relievers may increase the risk for bleeding. Ask your doctor before taking these supplements if you have a blood clotting disorder or currently take other blood-thinning medications.
