Opiate drug addiction resulting from a physician's prescription or a long-term recreational narcotic use can lead to a long and very painful withdrawal process. According to Opiates.com, unmonitored treatment may compromise the patient's health and potentially result in death. Common herbs are believed to be effective in treating the symptoms of nausea, extremities pain and spasm, diarrhea, depression and the anxiety patients experience while going through the detoxification process.
Black Horehound
As described in "The New Holistic Herbal," black horehound is a helpful herb for the treatment of nausea and vomiting with onset associated with nervous issues as opposed to stomach irritation, as seen during withdrawal-like reactions. Utilizing the dried aerial parts -- the parts that grow above ground -- 2 tsp. of this herb are brewed into a tea with a cup of boiled water and allowed to steep for 10 to 15 minutes. The tea is to be consumed three time per day or as needed to relieve the nausea.
Cayenne
Containing capsaicin, the active ingredient found in over-the-counter topical rubs, cayenne can be used for the treatment of muscle tension and pain experienced during the physical withdrawal of opiates. The "PDR of Herbal Medicine" describes a cream made with cayenne and paprika that can be used exclusively for external application. Readily prepared capsaicin creams can also be purchased at local pharmacies, and should be used prior to attempting to begin the withdrawal process. The book recommends not to apply the creams to open skin, such as cuts, as blistering and ulcers may occur.
Bayberry
A strong brew from the dried bark of the roots of the bayberry bush can be used for treating intestinal disorders such as diarrhea and dysentery. Patients under continuous opiate use often complain of constipation, which quickly subsides when the drug is discontinued. "The New Holistic Herbal" advises to take 1 tsp. of bayberry bark with a cup of water and bring both to a boil for 10 to 15 minutess, then consuming the brew three times per day to relieve the symptoms of diarrhea.
Mugwort
Known by other names such as wormwood and St. John's plant -- not to be confused with St. John's wort, a different plant -- mugwort, used as a tonic, is believed to help alleviate the depression that's commonly seen during narcotic withdrawal. The volatile oil extracted from the dried leaves and flowers produce bitter solution when 2 tsp. are mixed with boiling water. This should be consumed three times per day to properly deal with the symptoms of depression. "PDR of Herbal Medicine" states there are no hazardous health risk; however, like with all medications, caution should be taken with herbal remedies. It is important to consult a medical professional prior to using any herbs for opiate withdrawal.
References
- Opiates.com: Opiate Withdrawal Syndrome and Opiate Detox
- "The New Holistic Herbal"; David Hoffmann; 1995
- "PDR of Herbal Medicine"; First Edition; 1998
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