Habitual abuse of alcohol exponentially increases one’s risk of developing alcohol addiction. Alcohol addiction, also known as alcohol use disorder is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a chronic brain disorder. Excessive alcohol use, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) includes males drinking more than five alcoholic beverages within a two-hour period and females consuming more than four alcoholic drinks within a two-hour window. One standard drink is outlined as:
- 12 ounces of regular beer (5% alcohol content)
- 8 – 9 ounces of malt liquor (7% alcohol content)
- 5 ounces of unfortified wine (12% alcohol content)
- 1.5 ounces of 80-proof hard liquor (40% alcohol content)
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism explains that “alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences.” Alcoholics will prioritize satisfying alcohol cravings above all else, regardless of the negative consequences. There are a variety of treatment options available for individuals suffering from alcohol use disorder.
Natural Treatments
Recovering from alcohol addiction can be an arduous process. Due to the increased risk for developing adverse physiological effects that plague an individual who has habitually abused alcohol, it is advantageous to undergo professional treatment. There are certain forms of alternative treatments that can enhance one’s recovery. Verywell Health provides the following examples of holistic remedies that could improve one’s overall well-being and provide additional support to one’s alcohol addiction treatment:
- Meditation: is defined as “a set of techniques that are intended to encourage a heightened state of awareness and focused attention.” Through the practice of meditation, a person can gain insights into the ways in which his or her mind processes information, emotions, and even formulates thought.
- Acupuncture: is defined as “an originally Chinese practice of inserting fine needles through the skin at specific points, especially to cure disease or relieve pain.” Acupuncture can be used to help reduce alcohol cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms.
- Herbs: different herbs provide distinct benefits, examples include:
- Kudzu flower: has properties that can help people avoid binge drinking.
- Ashwagandha: is used in Ayurvedic medicine and is sometimes used to soothe alcohol withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and relieve anxiety.
- Milk thistle: is an antioxidant rich herb that is said to restore liver health and protect against liver damage.
As is indicated above, there are natural remedies that have been recognized as helpful supplemental components to an individual’s recovery process from alcohol addiction. However, it is ill-advised to rely on these natural remedies as the sole method of treatment for this disorder.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse and/ or addiction, we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long-lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment-related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one. We can be reached by phone at 424-258-6792. You are also welcome to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
