Ayurveda for Treating Addictions

 




Why do individuals become addicted?

People who are addicted, in most cases (with the exception of terrible scenarios such as kids born hooked due to their mother's addiction), begin by just seeking more pleasure and satisfaction in their lives. Their lives are complicated and miserable; their relationships may be difficult and unfulfilling; they may be dissatisfied and pressured at work; and they just don't know what to do. 

As a result, individuals turn to drugs or alcohol to avoid the reality of their situation. Whether the addictive drug is cigarettes, marijuana, alcohol, or something else, it quickly becomes a chemical reliance rather than a psychological escape. 

The person's brain therefore fails to function correctly unless a particular level of the addictive chemical is present in the blood.

Treatment is determined on the severity and duration of the addiction. A person with a weaker addiction, such as a recent smoking habit, may be able to easily cease. When a chronic alcoholic suddenly quits drinking, however, alcohol withdrawal syndrome develops, which is difficult to manage.

 

Detox and Cleanse

It is critical to undergo panchakarma, an effective Ayurvedic cleaning and detox treatment, to effectively tackle the problem of addiction. Panchakarma therapies are available in an Ayurvedic clinic, as well as a through a home panchakarma regimen.


REDUCTION OF THE DOSE

Reduce the dosage of the addictive chemical as part of this cleaning treatment. According to Ayurveda, it is not a good idea to entirely quit taking the addictive chemical all at once unless powerful treatments to cope with withdrawal are available, otherwise a stressful withdrawal syndrome would most likely ensue.

• We must strengthen the an effected organs in the case of nicotine toxicity (which affects the lungs and cardiovascular system) and alcohol toxicity (which affects the liver).


Use the following recipe to treat alcohol toxicity:


3 parts of chitrak 3 parts of kutki 3 times a day, take 12 teaspoon of these herbs with 2 tablespoons of aloe vera juice.

A bitter wine derived from aloe vera juice is recommended by Ayurveda. (It's known as kumari asava.)

A person who is addicted to alcohol can consume modest amounts of this mild, dry wine instead of strong liquor or other alcoholic drinks.

• 4 teaspoons diluted in an equal quantity of water is a good starting point. Then, while utilizing the aforementioned herbal formula to strengthen the injured liver, gradually lower the amount of herbal wine in the dosage.



Use the following recipe to treat tobacco toxicity:


Remove one-third to one-half of the tobacco from each cigarette (light at the end), then fill the paper with a mixture of rose petals, brahmi, and jatamamsi for a nicotine addict (equal proportions). 

Smoke until the tobacco begins to burn. Put out the cigarette as soon as the tobacco begins to burn.


NASAL MEDICINE

Nicotine toxicity is reduced by doing nasya with brahmi ghee.


EXERCISE

When a person has a strong urge to drink or smoke, he or she should usually go for a stroll in the fresh air.



WHEN TO GO SEE THE DOCTOR


If a person has a severe alcohol addiction and gets headaches, tremors, sleepiness, depression, or other alcohol withdrawal symptoms after they quit drinking, they should consult a doctor soon. 

Also, go for a swim, or do some other type of exercise to destress and vent excessive anxiety.



STIMULATION OF THE APPETITE


Some individuals drink because they don't have enough food to eat. They never feel hungry unless they have a drink.

Instead of drinking alcohol, individuals can drink ginger tea to enhance their appetite. 


Alternatively, try this tea recipe to activate Agni, the digestive fire:


  • 1 quart water Agni Tea 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper 12 handful ginger root, chopped 2 tblsp Sucanat (or other sugar substitute) a teaspoon of rock salt (between 18 and 12 teaspoons) 
  • In a saucepan, combine all of the ingredients and bring to a boil for 20 minutes.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside to cool for a few minutes before adding the juice of half a lime. Lime juice should not be cooked.


ASANAS IN YOGA. 

  • Some yoga movements would be beneficial as well. 
  • Sun Salutations and alternate nostril breathing should be added. 
  • Meditation in the So-Hum style will also be beneficial.




You may also want to read more about Ayurveda and Holistic Healing here.