Herbal Treatment Worldwide, Thailand is probably most famous for its herbal
treatments for opiate addiction. There has been recurrent interest in its efficacy in the
treatment of drug dependence. Detailed records of systematic study date back to the reign of
King Rama V in the 19th Century (Perngparn et al 1994). The herbal medicines often
contained opium dross. Three main advantages were noted from these studies. First, the
treatment was suitable for all opium users regardless of length of use, provided the user did
not suffer from tuberculosis or fever. Second, the user was not only free of cravings but also
was repulsed by the smell of opium smoke. Third, because of the repulsion, relapse could
only occur through determined effort, not because of cravings. Another remedy tested at this
time was known as “Japanese Medicine” but it was quickly realised it had dependence
forming potential so was not seen as an effective treatment for withdrawal