Addiction is a complex disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Traditional treatments such as therapy and medication have been proven effective, but some individuals may also benefit from natural remedies and supplements to support their recovery.

In this article, we'll explore some of the natural remedies that have shown promise for addiction treatment.

Kratom: A Popular Natural Remedy for Addiction

Kratom is an evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. In recent years, it has gained popularity in the United States as an alternative to traditional opioid painkillers and as a way to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms.¹ However, its use has been linked to some adverse effects, including addiction and overdose. As a result, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about the risks of using kratom.

Cannabis: A Controversial Natural Remedy

Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids, which interact with the body's endocannabinoid system to produce various effects, including pain relief and relaxation. Studies have shown that cannabis use can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms in individuals with opioid addiction.² However, its use can negatively affect mental health, especially in individuals with a history of psychiatric disorders. Additionally, cannabis use is not legal in all states.

Supplements for Addiction Treatment

Several supplements have been studied for their potential benefits in addiction treatment. These include:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and other sources, have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve cognitive function, which may help individuals recover from addiction.³ 

Magnesium

Magnesium is important for nerve and muscle function and has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression, common withdrawal symptoms.⁴

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for bone health and has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, which may benefit individuals in recovery from addiction.⁵

Caution:

It's important to note that while natural remedies and supplements can be beneficial for addiction treatment, they should not be used as a substitute for evidence-based treatments such as therapy and medication. Individuals should always consult with their healthcare provider before using natural remedies or supplements, as they can interact with prescription medications and have potential side effects.

If you're interested in natural remedies and supplements to support addiction recovery, keep reading for suggestions from Earth Clinic readers who have tried various options. These include affordable home remedies that may help break addiction patterns.

Conclusion

In conclusion, natural remedies and supplements can be used to support the recovery process for individuals struggling with addiction. While kratom and cannabis have shown promise in addiction treatment, their use should be approached with caution due to the potential risks and legal status. Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and vitamin D can be beneficial for overall health and may help alleviate some withdrawal symptoms. However, evidence-based treatments should always be the first line of defense in addiction treatment. As always, individuals should consult with their healthcare provider before incorporating any new treatments into their recovery plan.

References:

1. Swogger, M. T., Hart, E., Erowid, F., Erowid, E., Trabold, N., Yee, K., & Parkhurst, K. A. (2015). Experiences of kratom users: A qualitative analysis. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 47(5), 360-367.
2. Lucas, P., Walsh, Z., Crosby, K., Callaway, R., Belle-Isle, L., Capler, R., & Holtzman, S. (2012). Substituting cannabis for prescription drugs, alcohol and other substances among medical cannabis patients: The impact of contextual factors. Drug and Alcohol Review, 31(3), 488-494.
3. Dinicolantonio, J. J., O’Keefe, J. H., & Wilson, W. L. (2014). Omega-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular disease. The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 114(12), 900-905.
4. Boyle, N. B., Lawton, C., & Dye, L. (2015). The effects of magnesium supplementation on subjective anxiety and stress—a systematic review. Nutrients, 7(9), 8199-8226.
5. Patrick, R. P., & Ames, B. N. (2015). Vitamin D and the omega-3 fatty acids control serotonin synthesis and action, part 2: Relevance for ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and impulsive behavior. The FASEB Journal, 29(6), 2207-2222.