Asperger's syndrome is a developmental disorder that affects social and communicative ability. Conventional medicine is most commonly used to treat the syndrome and although there is no specific 'herbal' remedy, there are a number of alternative medical treatments that are effective for managing and treating both Asperger's and autism.
What is Asperger's?
Asperger's syndrome is a mild form of autism, which is characterized by a limited social ability. Asperger's and autism are neurological conditions that impair language and communication skills, the severity of which can vary significantly. People with Asperger's typically have repetitive rituals, routines or thought patterns. They also usually have clumsy body movements and usually learn to walk later than other children. The name Asperger's syndrome is named after the Austrian pediatrician who, in 1944, observed four children who had difficulty integrating and socializing with other children. Lorna Wing, and English doctor, published a case study in 1981 of children with similar symptoms and named it Asperger's syndrome.
The Symptoms
Symptoms of Asperger's usually manifests as a complete obsession with one or several topics. Asperger's patients will usually give all of their attention to this topic and will have difficulty focusing on and talking about anything else. Their speech is usually formal, they may also display stiff, formal body language, they may talk in a monotone voice and have a lack of facial expressions.
Environmental Causes
Dr. James Smith, of the Heartland Regional Medical Center, calls autism syndrome a man-made epidemic. The reason, Dr. Smith explains, is that the condition is related to an increase in immunizations, overuse of antibiotics, poor diet and environmental toxins such as heavy metals. Between 1969 and 1994 in California, 5,100 cases of autism were diagnosed, yet between 1994 and 1999 a further 5,100 cases were diagnosed and between 1999 and 2002 a further 5,100 cases were diagnosed. The rapid increase in autism diagnosis is, according to Dr. Smith, due to the increase in artificial environmental factors.
Food Allergies
Two types of food especially have been linked to autism. These are gluten and casein. Gluten is found in certain grains such as wheat, oats, rye and buckwheat. Casein is found in dairy products such as milk and cheese. A study conducted at the University of Florida in 1994 concluded that 87 percent of autistic children were allergic to gluten and 90 percent were allergic to casein.
Alternative and Herbal Medical Treatments
Vitamin B6, Vitamin B complex and magnesium have been shown to help significantly with Asperger's and autism. Use up to 500mg of vitamin B6 and 400mg of magnesium. These vitamin and mineral supplements have no ill side effects. Vitamin C may also be helpful for people suffering from Asperger's syndrome and autism. Vitamin C helps the brain to function and relieves depression and confusion. Both of these are common symptoms in people with Asperger's syndrome and autism. Consult your doctor for more information.
References
- RX Alternative: Autism Alternative Treatment; James Smith
- Mayo Clinic: Asperger's syndrome
- Autism Research Institute: Vitamin B6 (and Magnesium) in the Treatment of Autism
- Web Health: Autism and Asperger Syndrome
- Scielo: Autism and Asperger Syndrome; Ami Klin; May 2006
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Asperger Syndrome Fact Sheet
