Beating addiction can be tough. Often, it involves intensive treatment, lifestyle changes, behaviour modification and time spent changing belief systems. A complete healthcare plan, combining conventional and natural therapies, can help overcome a drug addiction and manage withdrawals. Here we take a look at some common natural therapies for drug addiction and what they involve.
What is a Drug Addiction?
Addiction is an illness that can disrupt a person’s life and even be fatal. The first course of treatment is medical attention to withdraw from the drug and practice abstinence. However, it’s not as easy as it sounds. It requires a lot of work, perception changes and support to reduce dependency on drugs.
Massage and Aromatherapy for Addiction
While it doesn’t replace medical treatment, aromatherapy may help the sufferer relax and work through the complex emotional and spiritual issues that often come with addiction. Research continues to show the enormous benefits of essential oils in helping the mind and body to unwind. In fact, some hospitals are even incorporating aromatherapy and other therapies into wards to create a soothing space. Often, oils are combined with massage to provide much-needed personal contact. Several studies have found massage to boost the immune system and provide a positive experience. In fact, a study from the University of Maryland Medical School found that when people are touched, their heart rate is altered for the better.
Lymphatic Drainage for Addiction
In recent years, lymphatic drainage has also been shown to help people improve their life and change their behaviour. It works by detoxing the body, as toxins are moved through – and removed from - the lymphatic system. By doing so, circulation is stimulated and more lymphocytes are produced to help the body ward off illness and infections.
Other Natural Therapies for Addiction
Alongside aromatherapy, massage and lymphatic drainage, the following therapies may prove useful in battling addiction:
Originally published on Dec 25, 2013
