Herbal Medicines For Wilson's Disease

Wilson's disease is a rare genetic disorder that impairs your body's ability to get rid of extra copper. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse states that Wilson's disease causes an accumulation of copper in your eyes, brain, liver and other organs. Elevated copper levels can cause serious organ damage over time. If you are considering using herbal medicines to help treat your Wilson's disease, first talk with your doctor about risks, benefits and alternative therapies.

Wilson's Disease

According to MayoClinic.com, copper plays a crucial rile in the development of your nerves, bones, connective tissue and other tissues in your body. In most people, excess copper from food is excreted through your bile -- a substance generated by your liver. However, if you have Wilson's disease, copper may accumulate to life-threatening levels. Wilson's disease causes several signs and symptoms, including clumsiness, depression, fatigue, joint pain, decreased appetite, nausea and skin rash.

Useful Herbal Medicines

According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," Wilson's disease affects about 1 in every 40,000 people worldwide. Balch states that many herbal medicines may be helpful in treating Wilson's disease, including alfalfa, ginkgo, gotu kola, kava kava, lobelia, parsley, oat straw, periwinkle, skullcap, astragalus, echinacea, pau d'arco, black radish, red clover, burdock, dandelion, cat's claw, cayenne, goldenseal, St. John's wort, Siberian ginseng, and valerian root.

Featured Herbal Medicine

Valerian root is an herbal medicine that is sometimes prescribed for Wilson's disease. According to Balch, valerian root is calming and it supports the health and function of your brain and nervous system. Valerian root may also be helpful in treating any swallowing difficulties that accompany Wilson's disease. Valerian helps improve your circulation, promotes greater sleep quality and has been used to treat anxiety, fatigue, high blood pressure, insomnia and irritable bowel syndrome. The roots and rhizomes of the valerian plant are used medicinally.

Warning

WIlson's disease can be fatal if it is left untreated. Discuss your treatment options with your doctor before using herbal medicines. Herbal medicines should not be used in lieu of other treatments suggested by your physician. Certain herbal medicines have known side effects and should not be taken by certain individuals. Seek the advice of a qualified health care professional, such as a licensed naturopathic doctor or allopathic doctor trained in herbal medicine, to learn about the herbs that may be best for you.