Addiction affects millions of people globally and can have a devastating impact on physical and mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. Traditional medicine offers various approaches to treating addiction. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine provides a unique holistic approach to de-addiction and rehabilitation. Ayurveda views addiction as a disease that affects the mind, body, and spirit, caused by an imbalance of the three doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The goal of Ayurvedic therapies is breaking free from addiction. And this helps to restore balance of the body and mind through natural remedies and therapies.
The initial step in Ayurvedic de-addiction and rehabilitation involves a thorough assessment of the patient’s medical history, physical health, and addiction severity. Based on this evaluation, Ayurvedic doctors create a personalized treatment plan that addresses the root cause of addiction. This helps to restore balance of the body and mind. Detoxifying treatments are used in Ayurvedic therapies to assist in removing toxins from the body. This can cause internal tissue damage due to addiction.
Ayurveda’s herbal remedies for Deaddiction –
Herbs such as Turmeric, Basil, Ginger, Ashwagandha, Triphala, Cinnamon, Cardamom seeds, Ajwain seeds, Ginseng, and Fennel seeds can help with breaking free from addiction.
- Turmeric is an immunity-boosting anti-cancer drug that strengthens the lungs and heart
- Basil helps reduce respiratory infections and lung congestion
- Chewing dry ginger can help control cravings due to its anti-inflammatory properties
- Ashwagandha strengthens the immune system and while Triphala which is rich in antioxidants, helps with constipation and clears toxins from the body
- Cinnamon and cardamom seeds can help fight cravings, and keeping ajwain seeds in your mouth can help flush impurities out of your body and control addiction
- Herbal tea’s anti-inflammatory properties can relieve the desire to smoke
- Ginseng reduces cravings and stabilizes emotional and physical stress
- Chewing fennel seeds 3-4 times a day can help fight the urge to use addictive substances.
Understanding the Role of Diet
Diet plays a significant role in Ayurvedic de-addiction and rehabilitation. Ayurvedic experts design a special Ayurvedic diet tailored to each patient’s needs, which includes foods that help restore balance to the body and mind. Individuals who struggle with substance abuse often have low levels of potassium and magnesium in their bodies. Incorporating certain foods into their diet can help replenish these minerals and support their recovery journey.
- Foods high in potassium, such as bananas, kiwis, cantaloupes, papaya, oranges, tomatoes, spinach, and avocados, can regulate serotonin levels and improve sleep quality during early recovery
- Berries, particularly blueberries, contain antioxidants that help remove toxins from the body and prevent cellular damage
- Fresh fruits like papayas, strawberries, pineapples, and oranges are rich in Vitamin C and provide various minerals, vitamins, fibre, and other nutrients 4. Leafy vegetables, broccoli, spinach, kale, lettuce, and other green salads can help rejuvenate the body and improve hair and skin health
- Whole grains can make an individual feel full for longer periods and aid in the digestive system’s recovery. Switching to whole-grain versions of food instead of white flour counterparts is recommended
- Consuming probiotics like yoghurt, curd, and buttermilk can build a healthy microbiome in the gut, which is essential for nutrient absorption 7. Complex carbohydrates contain fibre that aids in digestion and boosts energy 8. Lentils, soy, and black beans are excellent sources of protein, which is broken down into amino acids that repair cells
- Staying hydrated is crucial in recovery, and water, electrolytes, and coconut water are excellent sources of hydration.
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