Vicodin is a powerful prescription narcotic used for temporary relief of severe pain. Because it is highly addictive, drug addiction recovery programs such as the Spencer Recovery Center in Laguna Beach, California, now specialize in treating Vicodin addiction. If you are struggling with such an addiction, seek proper medical care. Withdrawal may cause physical pain, cold sweats, nausea, dizziness or convulsions. Certain herbs and supplements may help ease withdrawal symptoms, but always consult your physician before trying herbs or other natural therapies.
Passionflower
Passionflower is found throughout the Americas and Europe. Traditionally used by herbalists to treat insomnia, anxiety, hysteria and even seizures, it has naturally calming and sedative effects. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that passionflower increases levels of GABA in the brain, helping you feel more relaxed. It cites one study that found that a remedy containing passionflower was more effective at relieving anxiety in patients when compared to a placebo. It can be found in herbal teas or liquid extract form. Because there is still lack of scientific evidence to support its use in conventional medicine, check with your health care practitioner before using passionflower to treat Vicodin addiction withdrawal symptoms.
Skullcap
Skullcap is another calming herb used much like passionflower to treat nervous tension, hysteria, pain as well as convulsions. According to the Clayton College of Natural Health herb reference guide, the plant is also recommended for alcohol and drug withdrawal. It is a natural pain reliever, fever reducer and anti-hypertensive. It is also used by herbalists to calm the nerves, relieve insomnia, alleviate headaches, treat premenstrual syndrome, epilepsy and alcoholism. It can be found in capsule or liquid extract form. Although herbs such as skullcap are time-honored, always check with your medical doctor before using them in conjunction with conventional medical treatments.
Valerian
Valerian is a popular plant commonly used by herbalists to treat anxiety and insomnia. The Clayton College herb guide also notes that it is naturally sedative, anti-convulsive, hypotensive, tranquilizing and neurotropic or calming to the nerves. It may also be used to treat hyperactivity, nervousness, anxiety, pain and alleviate symptoms of stress. It can be found in herbal teas, capsules or liquid extract form. Although the herb guide states that there are no known side effects, it is still important to check with your health care practitioner before trying valerian or herbal remedies containing valerian. Because of its tranquilizing effects, it may enhance the effects of Vicodin or other narcotics.
Member Comments