You may experience withdrawal symptoms when you are recovering from an addiction, including drug, alcohol and tobacco addictions. Substance abuse, notes the World Health Organization, can lead to dependence syndrome -- a group of symptoms and behaviors that include increased substance tolerance, damaged personal relationships and a physical withdrawal state. Discuss the immediate and long-term health ramifications of herbal remedies for your withdrawal symptoms with your family physician or health care provider.
Substance Abuse and Withdrawal
Prolonged substance abuse may lead to certain withdrawal symptoms and should always be treated by a qualified health care professional. According to MedlinePlus, there are early and late categories of withdrawal symptoms. Examples of early withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, agitation, sweating, an inability to sleep and muscle pain. Examples of late withdrawal symptoms include diarrhea, dilated pupils, abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting. Although withdrawal symptoms may significantly reduce your quality of life, they are usually not life-threatening.
Natural Herbal Remedies
Several natural herbal remedies historically have been used in treating substance abuse and its associated withdrawal symptoms, although more scientific testing may be necessary to determine the efficacy of these herbs for this health purpose. According to Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," Siberian ginseng, St. John's wort and valerian root are three of the most helpful herbs in treating withdrawal symptoms. Other natural herbs for this health problem may include burdock, milk thistle and pueraria, a Chinese herb.
A Helpful Remedy
Siberian ginseng may be a helpful remedy in treating your withdrawal symptoms, especially withdrawal symptoms associated with cocaine use, notes Balch. Siberian ginseng, says master herbalist Ed Smith, author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," has traditionally been used in treating withdrawal from various drug addictions, and it increases your mental and physical stamina and improves your resistance to disease as well. The root of this plant contains numerous medicinal constituents and is used for medicinal purposes.
Disclaimer
Withdrawal symptoms may best be treated using a multimodal approach that incorporates both complementary alternative therapies and more conventional medical therapies. A professional counselor may also be helpful in treating substance abuse and withdrawal symptoms. Herbal remedies, though commonly used for this health purpose, may not be appropriate for every individual. Some herbs may trigger reactions within your body or interfere with your prescription medications. Herbs should always be used judiciously.
References
- World Health Organization: Substance Abuse
- MedlinePlus: Opiate Withdrawal
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
