Withdrawal/depression endorphin deficiency update

[Ginger7]

Well, it's been awhile, but I have to say that it HAS helped. Oops, I'm referring to D-phenylalanine for treatment resistant depression - the only thing that ever made me feel good (and normal) was OC, and the theory is that some people who only report feeling "normal" on opiates may have a deficiency in natural endorphins.

BUT - I am also taking Kava Kava at night, and although d-phenyl may be helping the depression, Guarana is helping ENORMOUSLY with the fatigue - I actually feel sort of like I did when I first took opiates (before I abused them). NOT AS INTENSE, that's why the "sort of".

*Herbs can have interactions with other drugs, serious side-effects, etc. There is controversy over Kava Kava causing liver problems (from what I gathered, it was unfounded, but do the research - definitely don't go by anything I say ;))

I'm also taking a few other odds and ends, but the 3 that I believe have a real impact are: 1000mg D-phenyl for depression, 900mg Guarana for energy (VERY STRONG - most are only 200mg!!!) and kava kava at night for anxiety & sleep (works wonders for me) all less than $35 through iHerb.

This is NOT a blind recommendation! Research this stuff!

Vicki - if you read this, please put your two cents in about herbs? everyone listens to u, lol.

[Ginger7]

Thanks worried878 & vicki595 -

Yeah, the guarana can throw you - if youre used to taking supplements and vitamins and dont "feel" anything from them, this ones a tad different, lol. I actually bought a blood pressure cuff, because i figured there is no way something legal should have so much kick, but nope, all is well - mayba a little lower actually, but thats because im MOVING AROUND AGAIN!

Oh, and i shouldve mentioned Yerba Maté - the guarauna works better with it, but not at 900mgs of gurana - if you take both, the equivalent would be 450/450 - they both contain naturally occuring caffeine (no shakes, no crash in my experience), but STILL caffeine, so same warnings apply. Yerba M. also has a bunch of active compounds ONLY FOUND in Yerba M., so if nothing else has helped with the withdrawal fatigue, this might.

I do/have taken tyrosine, but never sure if it helped or not, but thats how most things i take are, including drug-drugs like anti-depressants. Well, except for oc unfortunately.

I am just grateful im not as deathly TIRED all the time!

Oh, and thanks Vicki. Didnt mean you were anti-herb, lol, but some of this stuff is suprisingly STRONG!  I know how many desperate withdrawal  situations  ive been in trying function - i could easily see myself thinking "an herb for energy??? Yeah - maybe if i take a handful"! Im always afraid when i post about something im taking (especially the sub) how id feel if i sent even one person into an even worse direction, or added to this hell.

God knows i combed the threads looking for solutions, ideas, ANYTHING. There were times i wouldve gargled bleach if someone said it helped them.

[vicki595]

LOL   Hi!

I agree that herbs have a significant place in detox and depression. We can always take too much of anything but it sure doesn't hurt to get some non harmful chemicals in.  I believe in vitamins and minerals,as well.

I'm glad the phenyl is working for you so far.

I agree with your endorphin theory!

[worried878]

Tyrosine is also a good amino acid for energy   2000-3000 mgs a day in at least 2 divided doses.  I have not taken guarana before but glad u r doing well.  I do know with stimulants, high blood pressure can be a concern for those afflicted with hypertension so good idea to keep an eye on heart rate and blood pressure.

keep posting