Re: Help Please -- Bromide & GABA Receptors???!!!

i think your idea of getting her back on the drugs and then slowly tapering off was a really good one.

however, since that is not an option you may want to consider the herbs that work in a similar manner to the BZD's. the two main ones are valerian and kava kava. these will not have near the affect of the drug, but may be able to take the edge off your mom's worst symptoms if taken in large enough doses. this is definitley something to look into.




http://www.smartbomb.com/sleepandrelt.html


VALERIAN (Valerian officianalis) Valerian grows naturally in Europe and has been used as a medicinal herb for centuries. The valerenic acid found in valerian depresses the central nervous system, acting as a sedative. It helps relieve anxiety, improves sleep quality; and combats insomnia (Hobbs, p. 9). Drugs like Valium and Xanax work by displacing benzodiazepines from their receptor sites. Valerian's relaxing effects are similar to mild doses of Valium or Xanax, however, since it is not a benzodiazepene drug, people using valerian report fewer 'hang-over' feelings or sluggish after-effects. Also, Valerian has been found to be non-addictive. Many people suffering from benzodiazepine withdrawal find valerian to help immensely.



KAVA KAVA (Piper methysticum) Kava kava is native to the South Pacific and is a relative of the pepper family. For years islanders have used Kava for relaxation and anxiety relief. Kava is a wonderful natural alternative to many synthetic prescription sedatives and anxiety medications, without the usual side effects. The substances found naturally in kava that are responsible for its sedating effect are called kavalactones. Kavalactones have been shown to reduce anxiety, help with insomnia, and act as a muscle relaxant. Perhaps kava's greatest advantage, however, is that it relaxes the body and eases anxiety without giving the mind the sluggish feeling often associated with benzodiazepines and other prescription medications.