Sickle cell anemia is a type of anemia caused by a genetic mutation that causes the body to produce abnormal hemoglobin. Red blood cells that contain this hemoglobin take on a stiff, crescent shape resembling a sickle. They are unable to carry oxygen and can get stuck moving through small blood vessels and capillaries, resulting in fatigue, jaundice, bouts of extreme pain, leg ulcers, gallstones, kidney problems, difficulty breathing, eye damage, swelling, delayed growth and an increased risk for developing serious infections. For generations, herbs like spirulina, stinging nettle and the roots of dandelion, burdock and yellowdock have been used as folk medicine treatments to control anemia. However, there are a number of dangers connected with their use and none should be used as a substitute for medical care. Speak to your doctor before using any of these herbs to treat sickle cell anemia.
Spirulina
Spirulina is one of several blue-green algae types. It contains a high concentration of a number of vitamins and minerals, including iron, an essential component of hemoglobin. Because of its high iron content, alternative medicine practitioners consider it an effective treatment for anemia, although health professionals have not approved its use for sickle cell anemia. Two species of spirulina, Spirulina maxima and Spirulina platensis, are available as a powder, in flakes and in 500 mg pills. The University of Maryland Medical Center advises that a daily dose of 1 tsp. spirulina powder or flakes or four to six spirulina tablets may help decrease the symptoms of anemia. However, spirulina should be avoided by people suffering from autoimmune diseases like lupus or multiple sclerosis and by people with phenylketonuria. Spirulina use may interfere with the function of certain medications, including prednisone, cyclosporine, methotrexate and azathioprine.
Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle, also known by its scientific name Urtica dioica, has traditionally been used to treat muscle and joint pain, including the pain associated with sickle cell anemia crises episodes when misshapen red blood cells block blood flow in the joints, abdomen or chest. Stinging nettle is commonly administered as a sickle cell anemia treatment in the form of a tea prepared by steeping 3 to 4 tsp. of the dried root or leaves in boiling water, in an alcohol-based tincture, or in a dried or fluid extract. Do not use stinging nettle if you are pregnant or if you are taking any of the following medications: diuretics; diabetes medications; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; blood thinners like aspirin or warfarin; and blood pressure-controlling drugs like elaropril, verapamil and propranolol.
Alfalfa, Dandelion, Burdock and Yellowdock Roots
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the roots of the four plants alfalfa, burdock, dandelion and yellowdock have traditionally been used both separately and together in a tea that may help increase hemoglobin levels and lessen anemia symptoms. A typical dosage consists of 1 tbsp. of any combination of the herbs' roots for every cup of water boiled for approximately 20 minutes, then strained and consumed. Use of these plants may cause side effects like rashes, digestive system irritation and heartburn. Do not attempt to use this tea as a treatment for sickle cell anemia unless you are under the direction and supervision of a physician.
Warning
Spirulina, stinging nettle, burdock, yellowdock and dandelion root supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, none of the commercial products you may purchase containing these herbs have been checked for safety, effectiveness or purity. Reputable health institutions like the Mayo Clinic and the University of Maryland Medical Center acknowledge that herbs have been used in the past to help control anemia, but strongly warn that you should not attempt to do so without first discussing the possible side effects and dangers with your personal physician. Medications that relieve pain and prevent infection and procedures like blood transfusions and stem cell or bone marrow transplantation remain the most effective treatment for sickle cell anemia and its symptoms.
