Herbs are popular as an alternative to standard Western allopathic medicine for a variety of problems, including alcoholism. This may be because mainstream pharmaceuticals such as Anabuse and Revia have violent side effects and hard on the already overworked liver of those who have a drinking problem. Herbal remedies do not offer a magical panacea for the painful withdrawal from addiction, but can help the healing process in two important ways: as a general strengthener of both the emotional and physical systems, and in specific treatment of the side effects of withdrawal.

There is some research to suggest that kudzu, considered an invasive weed in the south, can help to dampen the desire to drink. There is stronger evidence to suggest that kudzu acts as a liver tonic, increasing it's ability to fight off toxins. ¹

Most of the herbs mentioned here help the recovery process by supporting and healing the liver, detoxifying the body. One of the best known and respected herbs for protecting the liver is milk thistle. The silymarin contained in the seeds acts to help the liver better eliminate toxins, including alcohol. ² In traditional Chinese medicine, Reishi mushrooms have been used as a tonic to prevent "fatty-liver" and cirrhosis due to alcohol abuse.

"Passionflower is the herbal remedy of choice for treating nausea and vomiting resulting from withdrawal from Vicodin, cocaine, heroin, or opiate painkillers and may also help withdrawal from alcohol."³