Methadone is a synthetic opioid and pain killer used to treat opioid dependence. It binds to the same brain receptors as morphine and heroin and alleviates withdrawal from those drugs. Unfortunately, methadone itself can create dependence. Methadone withdrawal symptoms include gastrointestinal problems, pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression and irritability. Herbs may help relieve these symptoms. A balanced diet is also important if you're contemplating methadone withdrawal. Consult your health-care provider before you undertake any withdrawal or use any herb for treatment. She can also advise you on what to eat.
Herbal and Food Actions
Herbs and foods for methadone withdrawal work in diverse ways. Withdrawal stresses your body, especially your adrenal glands. Anti-spasmodic and sedative herbs may relieve irritability and insomnia. Nervine herbs may control anxiety, nervous stomach and nausea. Analgesic herbs can ease pain. A balanced diet is essential to repairing damaged nerves and restoring mental and physical stamina.
California Poppy
California poppy, or Eschscholzia californica, is a perennial and annual herb with bright orange flowers, native to the West Coast of North America. Herbalists use the aerial parts to treat insomnia, anxiety and nerve pain. It contains potent but nonaddictive alkaloids that affect brain receptors, and the plant has anti-spasmodic, sedative and anti-anxiety actions. You can take it before bedtime if you suffer from insomnia. In their 2001 book, "Herbal Remedies," naturopathic doctors Asa Hershoff and Andrea Rotelli recommend the California poppy to reduce nervousness and tension during withdrawal and to normalize your mental and emotional functions. Do not combine this herb with other sedatives.
Galbanum
Galbanum, or Ferula gummosa, is a perennial plant found throughout Central Asia. Traditional healers use the roots to treat addiction, bronchitis, asthma, gastrointestinal disorders, wounds and boils. The active ingredient is a fragrant gum resin called galbanum, which has anti-pain, anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory and anti-convulsant actions. A study published in the September 2001 issue of the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" found that galbanum relieved pain and irritability in opioid-addicted test animals going through withdrawal. Do not use this herb during pregnancy.
Foods
It's important to follow a healthy diet when you are experiencing the stress of methadone withdrawal. Proteins are the basis for building neurotransmitters and opiate receptors. Quality sources of protein, such as fish, meat and eggs, may help repair the damage to your nerves. In their 2000 book, "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," Dr. James F. Balch and Phyllis A. Balch recommend adding high-protein drinks to a balanced diet that emphasizes fresh and raw foods. They also advise avoiding processed foods and sugar, because these may increase food cravings. Also avoid stimulants like coffee and caffeinated soft drinks.
References
- "Herbal Remedies"; Asa Hershoff, N.D., and Andrea Rotelli, N.D.; 2001
- "Journal of Ethnopharmacology"; Effects of Ferula gummosa Boiss. fractions on morphine dependence in mice; M. Ramezani, et al.; September 2001
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC, and James F. Balch, M.D.; 2000
