Complementary treatments for schizofrenia

[Kathy ParksStudent]

I am concerned with the side effects of antipsychotic medication, such as weight gain, akathisia, the possibility of tardive dyskinesia, parkinsonism, and a host of others. Does anyone know what herbs would be safe to take with anti-psychotics that could help lower the amount of medication needed and minimize the chance of side effects? I have read about ashwagandha, ginseng, ginkgo biloba, fish oil, B vitamins and melatonin, but there’s conflicting info on the web. The drug prescribed is paliperidone. Any experience or info would be appreciated.

[Dr. Patrick JonesHomestead Instructor]

I don’t recommend herbs which affect the nervous system in conjunction with mental health medications, particularly antipsychotics. The potentially catastrophic consequences of interfering with those sorts of meds make experimentation with combinations of herbs and drugs too risky.

Don't use herbs or combine herbs with medications or use them during lactation or pregnancy without talking with your healthcare provider.

[GlendaStudent]

Do vitamins qualify as herbs? Would a vitamin B complex or brewer’s yeast help without affecting meds? Breathing therapy can help calm frazzled nerves (and no contraindications😉). Some doctors say a low-carb diet helps, which means the leaky gut protocol should help, too.

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