Abraham Hoffer, MD, Ph.D., author of The New Orthomolecular Nutrition , found that there was an excessive conversion of adrenaline into adrenocrome in schizophrenics. He later discovered that Vitamin B3, a very important vitamin, is helpful in reversing this problem because it has cerebral vascular and anti-allergy effects, produces a mass action in cellular metabolism, inhibits NADase activity, is antagonistic to schizophrenic toxins, and restores acetycholine esterase activity. Hoffer's therapy involved giving patients from one to three grams of niacin a day. Herbal teas are also useful in assisting the schizophrenic to have a more relaxed and realistic outlook on life. St. John's Wort has a gentle calming effect combined with a restorative tonic effect on the nervous system and also promotes healing.
Lavender is a tonic with relaxing properties for the nerves.
Horehound is a helpful relaxant. Betel nut has been found by a study in Palau, Micronesia to reduce symptoms. According to a report in the August issue of the British Journal of Psychiatry , people who regularly chew betel nut fare better than those who do not. Ironically, medications given for schizophrenia further damage the liver, kidney, and spleen. Aromatherapy can be used in conjunction with herbal teas or alone as a therapy for schizophrenia.