Herbal Detox for Drug Withdrawal

Drug withdrawal is the process that occurs when the use of addictive substances is stopped. While there is no way to completely prevent withdrawal, herbal remedies can help treat individual symptoms and speed the detox process to make the overall experience easier.

Herbs for Withdrawal

• Symptoms of stimulant withdrawal often include extreme fatigue, increased appetite, depression and irritability. When detoxifying from stimulant drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines, choose herbs that increase energy and improve mood.

  Korean ginseng is an excellent herbal remedy for stimulant withdrawal. According to Diagnose-Me.com, Korean ginseng helps boost energy levels and prevent adrenal fatigue. It is an adaptogen, meaning it increases energy levels or calms the nervous system depending on individual needs. Yerba mate--a popular South American tea--can also help with the fatigue that accompanies stimulant withdrawal. It has mild MAOI properties, making it a good candidate for relieving depression and low mood. Other stimulating herbs include calamus root, rosemary, guarana and kola nut.

  Opiate withdrawal involves painful physical and mental symptoms that can be even more difficult to endure. Symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, joint and muscle pain, and depression can sometimes be severe enough to interfere with sobriety.

  For nausea, the herbs ginger and peppermint can be lifesavers. According to Nih.gov, ginger is as effective as Dramamine at relieving some forms of nausea and may cause fewer side effects. Agrimony, bilberry, chamomile and fenugreek can help ease diarrhea, while white willow bark and cayenne make excellent pain relievers.

  For the depression that accompanies opiate withdrawal, St. John's Wort is an effective remedy. According to NaturalNews.com, St. John's Wort is as effective at relieving mild-to-moderate depression as the commonly prescribed SSRI antidepressants. Valerian root, kava and passionflower can help relieve the anxiety and insomnia caused by opiate withdrawal.

Detoxification Aides

• Detoxification aides can be helpful during or after the withdrawal process for clearing the body of drug metabolites. Detox aides work by increasing the output of urine, feces, sweat and other waste products through which drugs and toxins exit the body.

  Dandelion root and milk thistle are excellent for increasing bile production and aiding in liver function. According to HeartSpring.net, milk thistle can help reduce and prevent drug-induced liver damage. Dandelion root is also a natural diuretic, making it useful for speeding elimination of drugs via the urine.

  Adding fiber to the diet is a great way to stay regular, which in turn aids in detoxification. Psyllium seed is an herbal source of fiber that can be taken as a supplement or added to shakes and smoothies in powder form. Herbal laxatives such as aloe vera, prune juice, rhubarb and senna can help stimulate the bowels and improve the efficiency of your detox.

Warning

• Some herbs can change the way medications and supplements affect the body. Talk to your doctor before attempting an herbal drug detox, especially if you suffer from a chronic health condition. When done improperly, withdrawal from depressant drugs can cause such serious complications as seizures, coma and death. Never attempt to detox from benzodiazepines, alcohol or other depressants without medical supervision.