Lupus is a kind of an autoimmune disease or disorder in which the immune system of the body starts attacking the normal healthy cells and tissues as it becomes hyperactive. This can result in a number of things such as swelling, inflammation as well as damage to the kidneys, skin, blood, lungs, the heart and the joints.
In normal conditions, the immune system makes certain proteins known as antibodies to fight and protect against the antigens like bacteria and many viruses but when lupus occurs, the condition makes the immune system unable to differentiate between antigens and normal and healthy tissues.
While there are many treatment methods to cure this disease, a lot of people like to follow natural or herbal treatments. Before following herbal methods or remedies, one must always consult with a doctor, especially if they are being used in addition to the traditional conventional treatment. The following are the best herbal treatment methods for lupus:
Fish Oil
Fish oil is one of the most effective and natural methods of treating lupus and is helpful because fish oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids which are effective against the problem. But one must remember that there can be certain side effects of using fish oil and these include nausea, fishy taste in the mouth and belching.
Vitamin D
Another effective naturally occurring treatment for lupus is the use of vitamin D. If vitamin D is taken in supplementary form, then it can be effective against the autoimmune disorder and may go a long way in treating it.
Dehydroepiandrosteron(DHEA)
DHEA is a hormone which has been shown to reduce the dose of steroid needed stabilize the various symptoms which are observed in people with lupus. This very fact makes it an effective form of treatment against lupus. DHEA supplements are available in the market and can be taken on the doctor’s recommendation.
Which herbs to avoid
While taking the above mentioned herbs and natural treatment can be effective against lupus, it is also said that some of the herbs must be strictly avoided so as to prevent the condition from worsening. The following is a list of the herbs one must avoid:
Alfalfa
Any one suffering from lupus must completely avoid taking supplements containing alfalfa because it has been found that this herb can induce or exacerbate lupus in humans.
Hormone Melatonin
The hormone melatonin is another natural herb or treatment which must be avoided by those suffering from lupus because this hormone modulates the immunity system and has been found to increase the activity of some immune cells like T helper cells. Melatonin is a hormone which is ideally used to avoid jet lag and regulate sleep.
Echinacea
This herb must also be avoided because there have been a few cases that suggest that taking this herb during lupus only tends to worsen the condition or has even induced it in some of the cases.
It is best to consult your doctor before taking any herbal medication.
