Many of us either struggle ourselves, or know someone who struggles with some type of addiction. This could be anything from gambling, caffeine, alcohol, gaming, or processed foods (and maybe buying books you know you won’t have time to read, but don’t tell anyone!). Webster defines an addiction as, “a compulsive, chronic, physiological or psychological need for a habit-forming substance, behavior, or activity having harmful physical, psychological, or social effects and typically causing well-defined symptoms (such as anxiety, irritability, tremors, or nausea) upon withdrawal or abstinence.”
According to Brigitte Mars in her excellent book Addiction Free Naturally, there may be biological factors behind addiction, including “low thyroid function, poor adrenal function, metabolic disorders, nutritional deficiencies, fatigue, yeast overgrowth, food sensitivities, and hypoglycemia.” Addictions usually lead to the person feeling really good whilst indulging in whatever the behavior/substance is, then regretting it afterwards.
If you or someone you love are desirous of overcoming an addiction, in addition to seeking help through an addiction recovery program, here are some herbal and nutritional supplements that you may wish to consider:
- Burdock root is well-respected for his ability to strengthen and heal the liver, which is the organ most damaged by alcohol and drugs. It also contains prebiotics to maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
- Kudzu root has been traditionally used to treat alcoholism and blood-sugar disorders. It can increase energy and balances hormones.
- Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans) may help alleviate the anxiety and insomnia that can occur whilst going through withdrawal. It has been used historically to treat alcoholism
- Calamus root is used in Ayurvedic traditional medicine to overcome the emotional craving for drugs. It is sometimes chewed or smoked to curb cravings for tobacco or cannabis, or added to mixtures with either herb to help with weaning off.
- Lemon balm helps soothe anxiety and can help the comfort and calm the nervous system, lessening the desire for addictive substances.
- Probiotic-rich foods or supplements. If our intestinal flora are not in good working order, we can suffer from anxiety, depression, and other emotions that can lead to the desire to consume alcohol and other addictive substances. Probiotic-rich foods include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, miso, natto, and kimchi. Learn more about how to make your own probiotic food in The Art of Fermentation by Sando Ellix Katz.
- Alfalfa, barley grass, and wheat grass are rich in chlorophyll and can help the body detox from harmful residues, as well as provide iron and other minerals to build and cleanse the blood. Sometimes this cleansing alone can reduce cravings.
These are just a few items to consider, and hopefully you will find the right one for you. No one herb works the same for everyone, so it’s wise to consult with a good herbalist to recommend a customized formula for you. We have put together a few formulas that are now available on our website, including a Recovery Burdock Syrup, our Recovery Formula #1 which is a kudzu, bugleweed, and lobelia glycerite, and Recovery Formula #2 which is a calamus and lemon balm tincture.
Lastly, remember that you are not in it alone, and that you have a loving Heavenly Father who wants what is best for you and your loved ones. Let Him be your best friend in overcoming all struggles in life, including addiction!
Love,
Marqueta