More than 18 million Americans suffer from the serious and chronic disease called alcoholism. It is hallmarked by an uncontrollable desire to drink alcohol. Over time, an alcoholic becomes more and more dependent on alcohol, needing to drink it in increasingly larger amounts. Eventually, alcoholics becomes physically dependent, meaning they cannot quit without experiencing symptoms of withdrawal, such as panic attacks, extreme nausea, vomiting, headache, tremors, insomnia and possibly seizures. Severe alcoholism typically necessitates an inpatient detoxification program supervised by qualified medical professionals. Talk to your doctor about the use of herbs to help reduce cravings for alcohol.
Kudzu
Kudzu is a fast-growing creeping vine native to Japan but also found growing all over in the southeastern United States. The roots of this vine are collected for use in herbal preparations and have been part of traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Kudzu is commonly used to decrease the desire for alcohol. According to nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch in her book, "Prescription for Herbal Healing," kudzu works in a similar fashion to the alcohol treatment drug disulfiram by causing discomfort, nausea and flushing of the face when alcohol is consumed. It appears that kudzu may be more effective when the herb is taken in a tea than when it's taken in processed supplement form. Talk to your doctor about taking kudzu to treat any medical condition.
Dandelion
Dandelion, the bane of lawn aficionados everywhere, can actually be very beneficial when used as an herbal remedy. It is a perennial plant that can grow in sunny, temperate areas worldwide. Dandelion produces a bright yellow flower surrounded by jagged-edge leaves. The entire plant has a long history of use as a liver tonic. Dandelion contains a wealth of nutrients, including vitamins C and E, niacin, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, and bioflavonoids. Although dandelion is used most frequently to treat liver damage and cirrhosis in alcoholism, the University of Maryland Medical Center states that it may also be beneficial for reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Get medical clearance from your doctor before taking dandelion.
Passionflower
Passionflower grows on a climbing vine in parts of North, Central and South America. It produces vibrant magenta-to-purple flowers that are used in herbal medicines, along with its leaves and stems. Passionflower is most often used to treat anxiety and drug addiction, being effective in lessening the symptoms of withdrawal. Although more clinical studies are needed, AltMD.com lists passionflower as being effective in treating the anxiety component of alcohol withdrawal and cravings. Talk to your doctor prior to using passionflower to treat your condition to ensure your safety.
St. John's Wort
St. John's wort, or Hypericum perforatum, is a shrubby perennial herb that can be found growing in parts of North America and Europe. It produces clusters of bright yellow flowers that are collected along with its leaves for medicinal use. St. John's wort is probably best known for its use to ease symptoms of depression. According to the medical journal "Alcohol and Alcoholism," a 2005 laboratory study showed that St. John's wort was effective in reducing the desire for alcohol in alcoholic rats. More studies are needed, but St. John's wort may also provide some benefits for human alcoholics. Ask your doctor if St. John's wort would be suitable for you.
References
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Alcoholism
- University of Michigan Health Center: Alcohol Withdrawal
- AltMD: Herbal Remedies for Alcoholism
- AltMD: Dandelion
- Oxford Journals: "Effects of Hypericum Perforatum CO2 Extract on the Motivational Properties of Ethanol in Alcohol-Preferring Rats"; M. Perfume, et al.; May 2005
