Alcoholism occurs when you consume alcoholic drinks, even though drinking may hurt various aspects of your physical health and your relationships. Most alcoholics develop problems with their family and friends, with work and other aspects of their lives. Alcoholism, notes the Cleveland Clinic, develops after months or years of drinking. Herbal medicine may help treat your alcoholism, although alcoholism is a complex condition requiring many different levels of treatment. Ask your doctor what treatments may be best for you.
Alcoholism
According to MedlinePlus, there is no exact cause of alcoholism. Some people are able to drink responsibly and retain control of their lives, while others cannot. If you are a man who consumes more than 15 drinks per week or a woman who consumes more than 12 drinks per week, you have a greater chance of developing alcoholism. Signs of physical dependence include alcohol-related illnesses, memory lapses following binge drinking and withdrawal symptoms after alcohol consumption is discontinued.
Herbal Treatments
Phyllis A. Balch, certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that dietary supplements are particularly important for alcoholics. Certain supplements may also help with the psychological aspects of recovery by reducing your desire to consume alcohol. Herbal remedies that may help treat your alcoholism include alfalfa, burdock root, dandelion root, milk thistle extract and valerian root. Herbal treatments should always be used in conjunction with other treatments for alcoholism and only when recommended by your doctor.
A Popular Herb
According to Dr. Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr., a naturopathic doctor and author of "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine," milk thistle contains a flavonoid complex that can extend the lifespan of alcoholics and improve immune function in people with liver cirrhosis -- a common health complication associated with alcoholism. Balch notes that milk thistle helps repair damage done to your liver and contains powerful antioxidants. The fruits, leaves and seeds of the milk thistle plant are used medicinally.
Additional Information
If you are an alcoholic, complete abstinence is an essential requirement to help recover control over your life. There are many programs in which you can benefit from other people who are knowledgeable about alcoholism. Consider visiting a health care professional who has extensive training in clinical nutrition and who can assess your specific nutritional needs. Fasting is a powerful method to help remove toxins from your body, although you should only fast if you are under the supervision of a trained health care professional.
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Alcoholism
- MedlinePlus: Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr., N.D.; 2002
