Alcohol withdrawal can be a difficult and uncomfortable process, with symptoms that can range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include tremors, sweating, nausea, anxiety, and even seizures in extreme cases. While there are medical treatments available, some people prefer to use natural remedies to ease their symptoms.
Natural remedies can be incredibly helpful through the alcohol withdrawal process, and many experts in the industry recommend them. But what are the best to use?
Valerian Root
Valerian root is a natural sedative that can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It is commonly used to aid sleep, but it can also be effective in easing alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Valerian root is available in capsule or liquid form and can be found in most health food stores. To use valerian root, take it as directed on the packaging, usually 300-600mg up to three times a day. It may take a few days to notice the effects, but many people find it helpful in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation during alcohol withdrawal.
Passionflower
Another natural sedative that can be useful in easing anxiety and promoting relaxation during alcohol withdrawal is passionflower. Like valerian root, it is commonly used to aid sleep but can also be effective in reducing anxiety. Passionflower is available in capsule or liquid form and can be found in most health food stores. To use passionflower, take it as directed on the packaging, usually 400-500mg up to three times a day. It may take a few days to notice the effects, but many people find it helpful in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation during alcohol withdrawal.
Milk Thistle
A herb that has been used for centuries to support liver function, it contains a compound called silymarin, which has been shown to protect the liver from damage. During alcohol withdrawal, the liver can be under a lot of stress as it works to metabolize and eliminate alcohol from the body. Taking milk thistle can help support liver function and reduce the risk of liver damage. Milk thistle is available in capsule or liquid form and can be found in most health food stores. To use milk thistle, take it as directed on the packaging, usually 200-400mg up to three times a day.
Chamomile
This natural anti-inflammatory can be useful in easing gastrointestinal symptoms during alcohol withdrawal. It can also promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. Chamomile is available in tea form and can be found in most grocery stores. To use chamomile, steep a tea bag in hot water for five to ten minutes, then drink it. Chamomile tea can be consumed up to three times a day.
Kudzu
Kudzu is a plant that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It contains a compound called puerarin, which has been shown to reduce alcohol intake and ease alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Kudzu can be found in capsule or liquid form and can be found in most health food stores. To use kudzu, take it as directed on the packaging, usually 500-1000mg up to three times a day. It may take a few days to notice the effects, but many people find it helpful in reducing alcohol cravings and easing withdrawal symptoms.
