Systemic lupus erythematosus, or simply lupus, is a long-lasting autoimmune condition. This condition, notes the National Center for Biotechnology Information, typically affects your joints, skin, kidneys and certain other organs. Lupus is many times more common in women than men, and it may manifest at any age, although people between 10 and 50 years old appear to be most commonly affected. Herbs may be a helpful adjunct therapy in treating your lupus, but you should only use herbs after discussing their limitations with your doctor.
Lupus Information
Although there is no precise cause of lupus, states the Lupus Foundation of America, certain factors may play a role in the onset of this condition, including genetics, environmental factors and hormonal abnormalities. There are numerous signs and symptoms associated with this condition, including a rash that spreads across your cheeks and nose, fatigue, joint pain and swollen joints, headache, decreased red blood cells, hair loss, and ulcerated tissue in your mouth and nose.
Useful Herbs
Expert herbalist Ed Smith, author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," recommends Centella asiatica, also called gotu kola, in the treatment of lupus. Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," recommends goldenseal to help combat inflammation and mouth sores and yucca to help treat arthritis-like symptoms. Licorice root is another herbal remedy that may be useful in treating your lupus, due to its ability to diminish lupus symptoms. Talk to your physician before using herbs to treat any medical condition.
A Commonly Used Remedy
Yucca is a commonly used remedy in treating your lupus-related symptoms. Yucca, notes Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician, herbalist and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," is often used in treating arthritis-like symptoms, which are are extremely common among those suffering from lupus. Yucca possesses spear-shaped leaves and is indigenous to certain arid climates throughout the world. The roots of the plant contain the majority of yucca's medicinal substances. Discuss the use of yucca with your doctor.
Considerations
Lupus can cause damage throughout your body and may lead to several serious health complications, including blood clots in your legs or lungs, stroke, decreased red blood cell count, endocarditis, and various pregnancy complications. If you have this condition, talk with a knowledgeable health care provider about effective and safe treatment measures. A botanically trained health care practitioner can guide you in the use of herbs for this condition and tell you what herbs to avoid.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
- Lupus Foundation of America: Understanding Lupus
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
