Drug Abuse Herbal Treatment

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When withdrawing from any substance, it is important to simultaneously detoxify the liver and relax the nervous system. A tea made from the following herbs can enhance liver function and calm the nerves. Use 2 parts oat straw; 1 part dandelion root; 1 part passionflower; 1 part Siberian ginseng; and ½ part skullcap.

Dandelion root is one of the finest liver remedies. It enhances the flow of bile, which has a beneficial effect on the liver. It is also a mild diuretic, which can speed the release of toxins from the body. Select dandelion capsules or tablets and take 250 milligrams three times daily for six weeks. Stop for one month, and then repeat.

Hsiao Yao Wan is a remarkable 2,000-year-old Chinese formula that helps relax the nervous system and improve liver function. This remedy is very effective in easing the mental and physical tension associated with withdrawal. Take the equivalent of 500 milligrams three times daily.

Kava kava induces a very comfortable, non-threatening relaxed state. If you suffer mental anxiety during withdrawal, choose a product containing 30 percent kavalactones and take 200 to 250 milligrams two or three times a day.

Milk thistle is one of the most effective herbs for liver detoxification. It contains silymarin, which has been shown in clinical studies to protect against liver damage and enhance liver function. It can actually stimulate the production of new liver cells to replace damaged ones. Choose an extract standardized to contain 80 percent flavonoids (silymarin) and start by taking 200 to 300 milligrams daily. After one week, increase to 200 to 300 milligrams twice daily; after another week, add another 200 to 300 milligrams daily. Do not take a tincture, which is alcohol based.

St. John's wort is very helpful for mental depression and mood swings. It also has immune-stimulating benefits and antiviral properties. It is not uncommon to have herpes outbreaks, skin rashes, or other symptoms of depressed immunity when using or withdrawing from drugs. If taken for three or four months, St. John's wort can help stabilize both mood and the immune system. Choose a product containing 0.3 percent hypericin and take 300 milligrams three times daily.

Valerian can be very valuable if withdrawal has caused a sleep disorder. This herb is very relaxing, especially when taken with calcium and magnesium. It helps people fall asleep faster and also helps prevent restless sleep. Select an extract standardized to contain 0.5 percent isovalerenic acids and take 100 milligrams in the morning and 200 to 400 milligrams in the evening, one to one-half hour before bedtime.

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