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Herbal remedies for alcoholism and alcohol detoxification

Published On: October 22, 2009, 7:41 am

Herbal remedies for alcoholism and alcohol detoxification By Ishpreet Bindra

Alcohol is an age old addictive, few can actually give up. It not only brings psychological and behavioural symptoms, it also affects the person physiologically over a period of time. Since times immemorial alcohol finds a place in histories of cultures across the globe and despite its negative effects so profusely propagated, not only is its use widespread still; but also out of all the people facing severe alcohol addiction only 20 percent are able to break free. However, herbal remedies have some excellent cures for alcohol detoxification.

The prolonged use of alcohol; is known to effect the brain as well as vital body organs like – the liver, oesophagus, intestines, stomach and colon, with severe damage, often leading to cancer. Pregnant women are also suggested to keep away from alcohol consumption as it may damage the foetus irrevocably.

 
With the use of herbal medicines one can break the addiction to alcohol systematically.
 
·         To begin with there are herbs which detoxify the body and reduce the urge to have alcohol. These also reduce the withdrawal symptoms. Some of these herbs are –
·         Then there are those which create an aversion to alcohol.
·         Next herbal medicines are given to repair the physiological damage dome by alcohol in the body.
·         Others heal the patient’s neurological and biochemical imbalances and prevent the person from reverting to drinking.
·         Often, stepping back from alcohol; might lead to severe depression and mood swings in the person. The final step is to provide medication to avoid that.
 
Various herbal remedies which help fight alcoholic addiction are –


·         Acom - reduces cravings but diarrhoea may be a side effect. It also acts as a repairing agent of damaged an enlarged organs like spleen and liver.
·         Angelica – reduces cravings. It is a warming tonic which also relieves gas, bloating, headaches and acidity. It is an anti-inflammatory medicine which repairs spleen and is anti-spasmodic as well.
·         Milk Thistle – it not only repairs the damage done to the parts like liver, but also helps to regenerate the lost /damaged organ tissue.
·         Serotonin - it heals the neurological and biochemical symptoms of the patient and thus controls mood swings.
·         Calanatts – it is good for the nervous system, it reduces cravings and increases appetite which is severely affected due to alcohol. It also relieves acidity and cramps in the stomach.
·         Celandine – helps to cure al liver problems due to excessive alcohol. Detoxifies and heals the liver. Makes it less sensitive and repairs damaged liver tissue. This herb is also a nerve soother and keeps cravings controlled. Enhances concentration and cures mental dullness.
·         Cayenne - prevents vomiting and pain in the stomach during alcohol detox. Controls cravings and promotes appetite. It also controls mood swings and helps the person sleep peacefully.
·         Hops – it keeps anxiety away, promotes digestion and cures insomnia. It is also used to cure withdrawal symptoms.
·         Oats – they help to stay away from alcohol and are good to cure its addiction. Improve clarity and focus, ease away palpitation and improve mind clarity.
·         Khella – it is an excellent anti-spasmodic and thus helps to keep stomach ache under control during rehab.
·         Passionflower – it is good to be taken for insomnia and spasms. It cures hangovers well and induces peaceful sleep.
 
It should be noted that all medication and herbal cures shall prove to be effective only if the patient has the will to break free from alcohol addiction. It is therefore vital that he/she gets full support and co-operation from the family and friend circle. The patient should always be encouraged and never be made to feel left out, ignored or guilty for being an addict. An understanding and encouraging environment is sure to help the person give up this slow poison and lead a normal life.