1. Fatigue - Panax Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)
Extreme fatigue is a common early symptom of lupus. Panax ginseng, known for boosting energy levels and overall well-being, could help combat this fatigue. Try incorporating Panax ginseng tea into your daily routine.
2. Joint Pain - Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
Lupus-related joint pain and stiffness can be managed with turmeric. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Learn how to make a healing turmeric paste for topical application and consider adding it to your diet for long-term relief.
3. Skin Rash - Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
For the characteristic lupus butterfly-shaped rash, pure aloe vera gel can be soothing and healing. Aloe vera contains acemannan, known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-repairing benefits.
Photo by Jacinto Diego on Unsplash
4. Photosensitivity - Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
Shield your skin from the sun with regular sunblock use and seek shade. Additionally, consider creating homemade calendula-infused sunscreen for added protection against photosensitivity.
5. Chest Pain - Hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata)
Heart involvement in lupus can lead to chest discomfort. Hawthorn, a heart-healthy herb, may help manage cardiac symptoms. Brew a cup of hawthorn tea using dried hawthorn berries.
6. Mouth Ulcers - Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Licorice root has anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve painful mouth ulcers. Learn how to create a licorice root mouthwash for soothing relief.
Photo by Viridi Green on Unsplash
7. Kidney Involvement - Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale)
Support your kidney health with dandelion root, which has diuretic properties. Learn how to make dandelion root tea to promote kidney function and reduce inflammation.
Anticancer Properties of Herbs
Certain herbs mentioned, like turmeric (Curcuma longa) and licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), are associated with potential anticancer properties. Curcumin in turmeric offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, while licorice root contains compounds like glycyrrhizin that may inhibit cancer cell growth.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can lupus be cured with natural remedies alone?
A: Lupus has no known cure, but natural remedies can assist in managing symptoms alongside medical treatment.
Q: Are there specific dietary recommendations for lupus patients?
A: An anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids is beneficial for lupus patients.
Q: Can lupus affect children?
A: Yes, lupus can affect individuals of all ages, including children.
Q: What exercises should lupus patients avoid?
A: High-impact or strenuous exercises may worsen lupus symptoms, so low-impact activities like swimming or yoga are recommended.
Q: Are there support groups for lupus patients?
A: Indeed, there are numerous lupus support groups and online communities that provide emotional support and shared experiences for individuals living with lupus.
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3659612/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5003001/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17182465/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3270572/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19596105/
- https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jf071263m https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24915351/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5852989/
