A Natural Approach to the Treatment of Lupus
There are 2 types of lupus. These are systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and discoid lupus erythematosus.
SLE is a chronic inflammatory connective tissue disorder of unknown cause that can involve joints, kidneys, serous surfaces, and vessel walls and that occurs predominantly in young women but also children.
Discoid lupus is a chronic and recurrent disorder primarily affecting the skin and characterized by sharply circumscribed macules and plaques displaying erythema (redness), follicular plugging, scales, telangiectasia (dilated superficial blood vessels in the skin), and atrophy.
Both of these conditions are autoimmune conditions. Autoimmune conditions are disorders in which the immune system produces autoantibodies to an endogenous antigen, with consequent injury to tissues. This essential means the immune system starts attacking you own body’s tissues.
Natural treatment of Lupus
Natural treatment of lupus would be targeted at the autoimmune component of the disease. Homoeopathy can help tremendously in the treatment of autoimmune conditions; especially because it targets the individual symptoms each patient experiences. I shall not make any recommendations for the Homoeopathic treatment of lupus as it is best to consult a Homoeopath when treating this condition with homoeopathic medicines. I shall however make recommendations on nutraceuticals, herbs, and diet in the treatment of lupus.
Nutraceuticals
The number one nutraceutical I would recommend in the treatment of this condition would be glyconutrients. This is because of their ability to enhance and correct the cellular communication between organ systems in the body. This is vitally important in treating autoimmune conditions, as the body needs to get the immune system to recognize that the tissues of the body are not foreign and to turn off the immune response and thus the autoimmune condition. I have personally seen one of my patients who has discoid lupus be completely cured of her skin lesions by taking glyconutrients.
Other nutraceuticals that are helpful are Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) alleviates Lupus – many lupus patients experience total remission of symptoms following EPA supplementation (usually from Fish Oils). Fish Oils are an effective treatment for Lupus Erythematosus (Fish Oils have been found in mice studies to prolong survival in Lupus patients and to prevent the Nephritis that commonly occurs in Lupus patients; their effectiveness is believed to be due to the Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) content of Fish Oils reducing the production of Prostaglandin E2).
L-cysteine & L-methionine are also beneficial as they assist cellular protection and aid in skin formation. Glucosamine sulphate is important for healthy skin, bones and connective tissue. Pregnenolone (50 – 600 mg per day) is of some benefit to Lupus Erythematosus patients. Vitamin B12 (1 mg per day) alleviates Lupus lesions. Vitamin E (900 – 1,600 IU per day) alleviates Discoid Lupus Erythematosus.
Herbs
Ashwagandha modulates and regulates the immune system, which is important in lupus patients. Lupus patients have low level of CD8 cells in comparison to healthy individuals. CD8 cells are important in modulating in overactive immune system as is the case in autoimmune diseases. Ashwagandha helps to boost CD8 cells.
Supplements and herbs to avoid
Do not use the following: iron supplements, as they may worsen inflammation. Avoid herbs such as Echinacea, or any others that stimulate the immune system, as they can severely aggravate lupus. Tryptophan aggravates System Lupus Erythematosus – therefore SLE patients should not use supplemental Tryptophan.
Dietary suggestions for Lupus patients
Eat asparagus, eggs, garlic & onions; these foods contain sulphur which is needed for repair and rebuilding of bone, cartilage and connective tissue, and aids in absorption of calcium. Include brown rice, fish, green leafy vegetables, non-acidic fresh fruits, oatmeal, and whole grains. Eat fresh pineapple, as it contains bromelain for reducing inflammation. Eat some form of fibre daily.
Do not consume milk, dairy, or red meat. Avoid caffeine, citrus fruits, paprika, salt, tobacco and sugar. Avoid nightshade vegetables, e.g. peppers, brinjal, tomatoes, which may contribute to inflammation. Avoid alfalfa.
General Recommendations
Get plenty of rest and regular moderate exercise. Avoid strong sunlight, and use protection from the sun. Do not use birth control pills, as they can cause lupus to flare up.
Excessive use of supplemental Estrogens by post-menopausal females increases their risk of developing Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).
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Dr Shaun Hutchinsons,
Homoeopathic Practitioner, Glyconutrient Consultant, Tai Chi Instructor, Massage Therapist
http://drhutchinson.weebly.com
