The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention attribute approximately 13,050 liver disease-related deaths and approximately 22,073 other alcohol-induced deaths to alcohol abuse annually. Alcoholism costs Americans anywhere from $40 to $60 billion per year because of lost work, medical care, vehicular accidents and alcohol-related crimes and social programs. As with any disease, people with alcoholism should seek medical treatment. However, a few natural herbs can also help individuals overcome the addiction.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is the primary herb used by herbalists to cleanse and detoxify the liver. The liver is the body's natural blood filter, and it can become severely damaged over time from excessive alcohol consumption. Milk thistle is a natural antioxidant. According to the Clayton College of Natural Health Herb Guide, it restores impaired liver function and is a powerful liver rejuvenate. Milk thistle can be found in capsules or as a liquid extract.
Dandelion
Dandelion is used by herbalists to cleanse and purify the blood. It has been used traditionally to treat jaundice, hepatitis and gallbladder disease. It mainly helps remove toxins from the body. It is considered a natural diuretic and liver tonic. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, evidence suggests that it also helps with alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Dandelion leaves can be eaten fresh with other greens such as spinach or in salads. Do not use dandelions from lawns that are sprayed with fertilizer or pesticides. Dandelion root, which also has powerful medicinal qualities, can be found in liquid extract form. It is often combined with milk thistle.
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil contains inoleic acid and gamma linolenic acid, the essential fatty acids that are known as natural antioxidants. It helps protect the cells from free radical damaged caused by toxins, such as in alcohol.
The liver is not the only organ that is affected by alcoholism; the heart and circulatory system may also be damaged. The Herb Guide explains that evening primrose is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help relieve the pain and inflammation associated with angina (chest pain). It is also effective in lowering blood pressure. This can be a tremendous aid in overcoming any addiction. It is most commonly found in gel capsules.
Astragalus
Astragalus is a Chinese herb that is considered nutritive and tonic. It is used to rejuvenate and energize the body, especially when recovering from a long-term or debilitating illness. It is also a natural whole-body cleanser and has been used to treat cancer patients who have undergone radiation or chemotherapy. While taking other cleansing herbs to cleanse the blood and liver during alcohol recovery, astragalus may help strengthen and nourish the body, restoring vitality. It is typically found in capsules or liquid extract form.
Blessed Thistle
Blessed thistle, similar to milk thistle and dandelion, cleanses the liver and is used by herbalists to treat hepatitis and jaundice. It also aids in circulation. Clayton College notes that it also has some anti-anxiety effects and may help relieve melancholy. This may be because of its ability to help balance natural hormone levels. It may be beneficial for those recovering from alcoholism not only because of its detoxifying action but also because it may relieve anxiety associated with overcoming the addiction. It is also typically found in capsule or liquid extract form.
