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Alternative Medicine for Drug Abuse

Drug abuse is a serious problem that can ruin lives and even kill. There are multiple therapies available to help addicted people get sober and live happier, healthier lives. Some of these involve 12-step programs, group therapies or even hospitalization. Some people may choose to use more natural treatment options. Some alternative treatments include acupuncture, herbal therapy, nutritional therapy and relaxation therapy.

  1. Acupuncture

    • Acupuncture is a popular alternative treatment for drug addiction. It aims to return a healthy balance to the body's "life energy," also known as "qi". Acupuncture involves the use of very small needles, which are inserted into the body in very specific places. This is to help relieve withdrawal symptoms and cravings for drugs so the patient can focus on recovery and beginning a healthier lifestyle. The process of acupuncture is also supposed to invoke a state of calmness or relaxation, which can help with the stress, anxiety and depression people often feel when they suddenly stop using addictive drugs.

    Herbal Therapy

    • Another popular alternative treatment for drug addiction is the use of medicinal herbs. These herbs can help curb cravings and symptoms of withdrawal. Some of these herbs can even help detoxify the body, which can speed up the withdrawal process. Some of the herbs that are used to treat drug abuse are peppermint, catnip, skullcap, St. John's wort and chamomile, which have a calming effect and help to combat depression. Kudzu root and milk thistle are also popular herbal treatments because they are believed to reduce cravings and improve liver function.

    Nutritional Therapy

    • People who are addicted to drugs often become nutrient-deficient or very sick due to a lack of nutrients and the use of harmful substances. Nutritional therapy aims to help the body eliminate the toxins and free radicals that build up in the body from drug use and restore the body to a healthy state with proper nutrition. A person receiving nutritional therapy may need dietary supplements containing selenium, zinc, beta-carotene, Vitamin E and Vitamin C in addition to a healthy diet including complex carbohydrates and protein.

    Relaxation Therapy

    • Because drug abuse is usually a symptoms of a deeper problem, there are therapies to bring these problems to the surface so that drug use can be stopped. Some of the underlying issues that can lead to drug abuse are anxiety, depression, stress and low self-esteem. Two popular relaxation techniques used to combat emotional problems and drug use are guided imagery and visualization. In guided imagery or visualization therapy, a therapist may ask you to close your eyes and imagine yourself in a drug-free state and to imagine the benefits of being in this condition. These exercises help to increase desire for the health benefits of quitting drug use while making salient the damaging effects drugs can have on one's life.

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