Exploring Lupus with Herbs – A Body Fighting Against Itself
Lupus, also known as SLE or ,Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, is an autoimmune disorder. Tissue damage and inflammation can occur from the body attacking it’s own immune system.It’s a disease most often experienced by women more than men and affects the heart, liver, kidneys, joints,blood vessels and nervous system.While there is no cure for Lupus, the survival rate has risen considerably, thanks to modern medicine.Usually, a side effect of Lupus is a butterfly eruption on the face and phototsensitivity. If a sudden attack does occur, a few possible herbal remedies might just be what you’re looking for.
Herbal Remedies for Lupus
Black Cohosh Root has long been used for all kinds of problems that mainly affect women.Since Lupus is associated more for women than men,Black Cohosh Root is one of the herbs that can be used for Lupus. Because it is an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever, Black Cohosh Root can be used to soothe the pain in the joints. Another herb that is commonly used for painful arthritis, is Cat’s Claw. The bark is generally used and it has been known to also help stimulate the immune system. One herb that is particularly beneficial for Lupus, is Ginger Root. Ginger Root has been documented to help relieve a wide variety of symptoms, from lowering blood pressure, to cold relief, to Lupus. It is an anti-inflammatory, and it works well when combined with Tumeric. Tumeric and Ginger can easily be added to dishes to reap the benefits of them. St. John’s Wort is exceptionally useful for Lupus, too. Aside from being an anti-depressant, St. John’s Wort is a nervine, which can help alleviate anxiety, and act as a tonic for the entire nervous system. It is widely used for many things, and Lupus sufferers could greatly benefit from it as well. St. John’s Wort is also an antioxidant. Astragalus is one of the top herbs recommended for those with Lupus. This Chinese herb, works with the body helping control and suppress the over activity of the immune cells. It’s an immunostimulant, and is greatly helpful for Lupus. Stinging Nettle is another anti-inflammatory. It helps eliminate the excess uric acid in the body, which is beneficial for the edema that often occurs with Lupus. Holy Basil is another herb that is great for uplifting the mood, but also is a known anti-inflammatory. A tea of Basil can help alleviate sore joints.
Benefits of Green Tea
Green tea has been around for thousands of years, and has always had great benefits when added to the diet. Aside from being an antioxidant, Green Tea has been known to possibly slow the progression of Lupus. In countries where Green Tea is a daily part of the diet, cases of Lupus are significantly decreased. Polyphenols in Green Tea may be to thank for this, as they may protect against cell death and inflammation. In addition to Green Tea, increasing the Omega-3 Fatty Acids has been shown to be greatly beneficial for those with Lupus. Omega-3′s can be found in fish, such as salmon, halibut, and sardines. Because Lupus is known to cause photosensitivity, upping the individuals intake of Vitamin D would be highly recommended. Vitamin D is essential to a healthy body, as it helps the body absorb calcium, repairs bones, and can help normalize the function of the immune system. Always talk to your doctor before taking any Vitamin D supplements, as too much Vitamin D can cause a toxic reaction. Cordyceps Mushrooms have also been used on those with Lupus. These mushrooms have been around for thousands of years, and have many positive effects on the body. It has natural antibiotic properties, supports liver and kidney function, improves respiratory function, increases blood circulation and protects the heart, and increases energy levels. All these things are exceptionally useful for Lupus. Adding Flaxseed to your diet, has also been proven to significantly decrease the symptoms of Lupus. It is rich in fatty acids, which is greatly effective.
Side Effects and Warnings
If you are considering taking herbs or herbal supplements, and are currently taking medication for Lupus, please ask your doctor first, as some herbs may react negatively with some medications. Pregnant or nursing women should practice extra caution. Recent studies have also shown that women who are taking birth control, may increase the chance of getting Lupus, especially within the first three months of starting.An increased dose of estrogen in already at risk women, could play a part in the onset of Lupus. Also, a diet that is high in excess calories, protein,fat, and iron, could most definitely play a role in an individual developing Lupus.Some doctors recommend a diet change, increasing fish and vegetable intake while decreasing sugar and sweet intake. Exercising, getting enough rest, and staying out of the sun, will greatly decrease the symptoms of Lupus, and generally speed up healing.
Category: HEALTH, HERBAL REMEDIES
