According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse over two million Americans use cocaine. Cocaine is a serious addiction and withdrawal symptoms can be especially difficult. Rehab centers offer help and successful treatment, but it can be exceedingly costly to those lacking insurance. Some centers incorporate natural approaches, and there are herbs that can help ease the withdrawal symptoms of cocaine addiction.
Valerian Root
Valerian root can be used to calm people down and aid with sleep, according to Susan Hadley, M.D., at Middlesex Hospital in Middletown, Connecticut. The chemical composition of this herb includes sesquiterpenes, which are believed to be the reason for valerian's sedative effects, thus inducing sleep and calm in the patient.
Kava Kava Root
Kavalactones can relieve anxiety and pain and change brain activity without sedation, according to The British Journal of Phytotherapy. This benefits the person experiencing withdrawals because tense muscles is one withdrawal symptom. It also helps reduce tension and relaxes the nervous system.
Skullcap
This is a powerful medicinal herb, and it can be ingested as a tincture or a tea, according to Bridgette Mars, author of Addiction-Free Naturally. It is effective at calming down nerves and tension associated with withdrawals. This herb can also alleviate other withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, tension headaches, muscle spasms and insomnia.
Passionflower
Passionflower can help curb the withdrawal symptoms nausea and vomiting, according to David Wong, M.D., author of The Complete Guide to Vitamins, Herbs and Supplements. Many people experience extreme nausea during withdrawals.
Energy Boosting Herbs
According to Cocaine Anonymous, cocaine withdrawal is psychologically exhausting. Chances are the addict will lack energy due to the intense cravings they endure. Because cocaine is a stimulant, it is possible that energy-boosting herbs could help with sagging energy levels. Such herbs as yohimbe, Siberian ginseng, gotu kola, licorice root and peppermint all have the potential to boost energy levels.
References
- Health World
- New York Times
- Nutritional Herbology : A Reference Guide to Herbs; Mark Pedersen; 1998
