Evidence supporting the use of: Water
For the health condition: Addictions (general remedies for)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Water is not considered a direct treatment for addiction in the sense of curing substance dependence or withdrawal, but it plays a supportive role during recovery processes. Scientifically, maintaining adequate hydration is essential for general health, especially when the body is under stress from withdrawal or detoxification. During withdrawal from substances like alcohol, stimulants, or opioids, dehydration is a common risk due to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, or decreased fluid intake. Proper hydration can help alleviate some withdrawal symptoms, support metabolic processes, and promote organ function during detox. However, there is no evidence that water itself directly treats the psychological or neurobiological components of addiction. Instead, it is a recommended part of supportive care in both hospital and outpatient settings, often emphasized alongside nutrition, rest, and medical supervision. Some addiction treatment guidelines mention hydration as a general supportive measure, but not as a primary or standalone therapy. Traditional medicine systems do not attribute specific anti-addictive properties to water, but all systems recognize water’s essential role in health maintenance. In summary, while water is vital for overall health and supportive care during addiction recovery, it should not be seen as a remedy for addiction itself, and the evidence for its use is based on general physiological needs rather than targeted addiction treatment.

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