Multiple sclerosis, states the National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a condition in which your immune system attacks your brain and spinal cord -- two important components of your central nervous system. Multiple sclerosis arises when your myelin sheaths are damaged. Myelin sheaths are a protective covering that surrounds your nerves and helps preserve the speed of impulses sent from your body to your brain, and vice versa. Herbal medicine has often been used to treat symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis.
MS Information
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society states that multiple sclerosis symptoms may range from mild to severe, depending on the specific case. Some of the more common indications that you may have multiple sclerosis include numbness, fatigue, balance and coordination problems, bowel and bladder dysfunction, vision problems, dizziness and vertigo, emotional problems, pain, sexual dysfunction, depression, muscle spasticity and cognitive declines. The Society states that about 200 people in the United States are diagnosed with this condition every week.
Common Herbal Medicines
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that herbal medicines are usually a safe way to improve the strength and tone of your body's various systems. Herbs, notes the Center, may also effectively treat symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis. The following herbal medicines are recommended in the treatment of multiple sclerosis: ginkgo, green tea, rhodiola, milk thistle and bromelain. Other important herbal medicines for this condition include remedies that detoxify your body such as goldenseal, burdock and echinacea.
Highlighted Herbal Medicine
Rhodiola is an herbal medicine that is often used by health care practitioners in the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Rhodiola, a perennial plant that thrives in the cold regions of the world and at high altitude, possesses antioxidant action, helps reduce stress and improves your immune system activity. According to the University of Michigan Health System, rhodiola has been used in traditional medicine systems to treat many ailments, including nervous system disorders, fatigue, low physical endurance and infections.
Additional Information
Multiple sclerosis is a serious health problem and can lead to numerous health complications, including cognitive impairment, depression, swallowing problems, an inability to live independently, decreased bone mineral density, pressure sores, urinary tract infections and other problems. If you experience any of the symptoms of multiple sclerosis, visit your doctor for a full examination and check-up. Although the prognosis for this condition varies, and although there is no known cure for this condition, your doctor can provide you with many treatment options that may help manage your symptoms.
