Heavy consumption of alcohol or substance abuse is chronic and, in most cases, a progressive medical condition that requires immediate medical attention. Although one is not advised to rely solely on alternative therapies or remedies for recovery, natural treatments for alcohol and substance abuse can enhance overall wellbeing. Plus, they are free of side effects and can improve the body’s ability to respond to medications as well. Here are the top natural treatments for alcohol and substance abuse:

• Meditation programs
  Mindfulness-based programs are based on relapse prevention therapy and have been widely used for dealing with alcohol and substance abuse. Structured around meditation practices, participants are made aware of their thoughts, emotions, and cravings rather than just reacting to them. Although the results have mixed reviews, these programs have proved to be more beneficial than other forms of relapse prevention.
• Extracts of kudzu
  Kudzu extracts are among the most effective natural treatments for alcohol and substance abuse in cases with moderate addiction. Of its several effects, the faster rise in blood alcohol level helps as it makes one feel intoxicated sooner. The effect of acetaldehyde, a product of alcohol believed to be unpleasant and harmful, is also inhibited with this extract. A study conducted on heavy drinkers after they consumed kudzu extracts to see the effects showed that although the extracts did not affect their alcohol cravings, they significantly reduced the number of drinks they consumed, by a third to a half per week. So, there was a significant reduction in the number of heavy drinking days.
• Milk thistle
  Milk thistle or Silybum marianum, an herb rich in certain antioxidants, is often considered a good way to restore liver health and prevent alcohol-induced health conditions like liver damage. Though primary studies indicate that it may benefit people looking to treat their livers due to excessive drinking, more studies are needed to draw definitive inferences.
• Herbal supplements
  If one is looking for natural treatments for alcohol and substance abuse, certain herbal supplements made from the Withania somnifera plant have healing properties. These have been used in traditional medicines as well, and studies performed on alcohol-addicted rodents showed a reduction in anxiety levels due to the supplements. Though the effects have not been proved for humans, the supplements are considered to be effective for dealing with alcohol withdrawal and cravings.
• Detoxification
  Several nutritional therapies recommend detoxification and periodic fasting for treating alcohol disorder and substance abuse issues. Supervised detoxification may help reduce withdrawal symptoms and also flush out the toxins accumulated in the body.

Since alcohol and substance abuse disorders can lead to several emotional and social problems, it is important to seek treatment from qualified professionals at the earliest. Also, while natural treatments for alcohol and substance abuse may prove to be useful with fewer side effects, their administration must be monitored by a healthcare team.