Herbal Approaches to Alcohol Dependence: Evidence and Risks

The recovery process can be a long road full of disappointment and tough self-reflection. Pomelos are rich in vitamin C & potassium among other nutrients & antioxidants. They improve digestion & heart health, boost immunity, slow aging, and aid in weight loss. Peppermint tea is a delicious beverage that relieves headaches, inflamed sinus, and stomach problems. Ginger also helps boost bone health, strengthen the immune system, and increase appetite. This spicy root is also good for mitigating obesity and relief from menstrual pain.

• This herb should be avoided by alcoholics, however, because it too has the potential to cause severe liver damage.
• Dandelion tea is an effective treatment for upset stomach and headaches that are often a part of the recovery process.
• Naltrexone – it is administered after general detoxification, as an anti-craving medication for alcohol.
• A lack of water intake can often lead to unwanted alcohol cravings so it is important to stay on top of your water consumption.
• The drug acts to block receptors that provide the “Alcohol High” in the brain.

While all of these tools are integral to your success in sobriety, there are natural forms of coping that will increase your chances and abilities to remain sober and curb cravings. Iboga is an African herb which reduces the cravings for substances such as alcohol. It has been used to combat not only alcohol addiction, but also cocaine and heroin abuse. Iboga is especially effective because it contains an alkaloid called ibogaine which regulates the neurotransmitters in the brain that stimulate alcohol cravings. Chamomile tea is extremely beneficial for those who want to fend off alcohol cravings. Chamomile tea contains natural healing properties which soothe the digestive system and relieve feelings of nausea that may result from alcohol withdrawal.

Natural Herbs for Alcohol Withdrawal

Wouldn’t it be great if there were some natural remedies to reduce alcohol cravings? Because alcoholism can interfere with the absorption of minerals and vitamins, supplementing certain nutrients — including vitamin C, selenium, magnesium and zinc — may help with cravings. According to New York University Langone Medical Center, the herb passion flower may be useful in reducing alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Dandelion may also be able to help with alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Abusing alcohol can lead to a plethora of personal problems as well as many health problems, including liver disease.

• The good news is that there are some natural remedies that can help you reduce alcohol cravings without causing adverse side effects.
• Cravings won’t necessarily affect everyone who cuts back on alcohol.
• You might notice stressful or tense situations tend to fuel cravings more often than not.
• Attending support groups and communicating positively helps to maintain sobriety.
• If you have other health concerns, including liver damage or cirrhosis, consult with your primary physician before taking any supplements to help with alcoholism.

They both are known for their ability to relax and tone the nervous system, relieving tension and anxiety. In Chinese medicine, Skullcap is considered excellent for cooling the mind, liver and lungs. For this reason it promotes a state of meditation and calms an over-active mind. Passionflower induces restful sleep without grogginess the following day. Both of these herbs are used specifically for reducing withdrawal symptoms.

Can I Use Herbs to Help Resist Alcohol Cravings?

These services can also assist in the process of alcohol detox and help with the development of coping skills to prevent setbacks. Abstaining from alcohol can be a difficult decision as it requires significant lifestyle changes. This process can be made even more difficult by symptoms of withdrawal and alcohol cravings. Fortunately, there are several medications that can aid in alleviating alcohol cravings. Several of these medications are approved by the FDA and are available by prescription only. A few supplements are also available over-the-counter (OTC), described as agents that can help curb alcohol cravings.

• When a craving for alcohol strikes, a good first step involves acknowledging the craving, according to Mehta.
• “A typical craving might last for 3 to 5 minutes,” notes Christina Hanks, senior recovery coach and care team manager at Tempest.
• Cultivate new friendships with those who do not prioritize drinking as an essential part of their lives.
• Then you can take the liquid from the top of the boiling vessel and drink this to fight the urge for alcohol.

The liver is responsible for flushing toxins out of the body and consuming alcohol puts a lot of pressure on this organ. The runner’s high is real as exercise stimulates the brain to release “feel good” hormones. Counseling, medication, support from family and friends, changing your diet, taking supplements, and alternative treatments may all help lessen your alcohol cravings. There is some scientific evidence suggesting acupuncture provided by a qualified practitioner can help cut alcohol consumption and lessen alcohol withdrawal symptoms (11). Understanding and recognizing these factors will help you reduce or manage cravings more effectively. Indian Ginseng is an ancient ayurvedic herb that uses its antioxidant powers to cleanse the body of toxins and improve your overall health.

Do Antacids Deplete Vitamin B?

Severe deficiency, called scurvy, may result in anemia, bruising, and dental issues. Taking a vitamin C supplement can help you feel better, which is essential to maintaining your sobriety. DL-phenylalanine is an essential amino acid which https://ecosoberhouse.com/ plays an important role in the functioning of your nervous system. If your body is deficient in this amino acid, it’s common to experience fatigue, confusion, memory problems, a decrease in alertness, and to have a reduced appetite.

Alcoholism puts great pressure on the liver, which is responsible for filtering toxins. This unnatural pressure affects the pancreas, forcing it to produce insulin at an exponential rate; this overdrive can lead to inflammation. The inflammatory response affects the digestive system and causes gastric ulcers. Exercises help to burn out fatty cholesterol stored up in the liver and provide a boost at cellular levels. Exercises help to regulate blood sugar and releases chemicals in the brain that improves mood, agility, and body functions, allowing you to live a healthier life. Many addicts deal with feelings of depression and anxiety during their recovery.

This is key to keeping cravings under control, especially when your body is used to using alcohol as a quick form of fuel. It can be an especially good alcohol recovery supplement for people with liver damage. Studies show that glycine is useful in treating both alcoholic hepatitis https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/how-to-naturally-reduce-alcohol-cravings/ and carcinoma caused by alcoholic cirrhosis. Even if you are not suffering from these conditions, taking glycine may help protect your liver if you have a history of heavy drinking. Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that is helpful for restoring thyroid and adrenal function.