Treatments for alcoholism include detoxification and withdrawal programs, building skills, establishing a treatment plan, medications, continuing support and treatment for psychological problems. Some people also choose to use natural supplements to curb their cravings. If you choose to use a supplement, do so under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider. Use supplements as adjunct treatments to traditional alcohol abuse interventions.
Kudzu
Kudzu is an herb used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat alcohol abuse. It is an invasive perennial vine that was brought to the United States from Japan. Animal studies suggest that it may help get rid of cravings, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In a human study, kudzu reduced the amount of alcohol that people consumed in a sitting, suggesting it may help binge drinkers to cut back, according to MSNBC. Use kudzu with caution.
Dandelion
Dandelion may improve alcohol withdrawal symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It is often combined with milk thistle, which can help treat liver problems. Dandelion is also known as Taraxacum officinale, lion's tooth, blowball, cankerwort, priest's crown, swine snout and wild endive. Drugs.com recommends when choosing a form of dandelion, pick standardized extracts, tinctures and solid formulations. Use caution when trying dandelion or milk thistle.
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil has been used to treat alcohol withdrawal, but no evidence supports its effectiveness, according to the University of Michigan Health System. It is also referred to as black currant seed oil, EPO or Oenothera biennis. It comes from the seeds of the evening primrose plant and contains gamma linolenic acid, or GLA.
No recommendations exist for adequate dosages of evening primrose oil, but in studies, researchers often use 3,000 to 6,000 mg per day, which provides about 270 to 540 mg of GLA. Individuals may need to take magnesium, zinc, vitamin C, niacin and vitamin B6 along with EPO to develop prostaglandin E1, or PGE1, the hormone-like substance that may have beneficial effects. Use caution when trying evening primrose oil.
Member Comments