There are 3 types of Lupus- it would be important to know which you have before recommending anything. The three types are: Discoid- limited to the skin systemic- which affect all systems. Drug- indused- more common in men and like systemic- caused by hydralazine ( med for high blood pressure) and procainamide( irregular heart beat med.) Capsaicin creams (cayenne) can be helpful in pain treatment with lupus. One thing I did find NO alfalfa at all- it can cause SLE systems and flare ups in people who have SLE. Any of the anti-inflammatory herbs can be made into salves or taken as tea or tinctures. I myself would tincture seperately in cause of allegic reaction- try each and then mix if needed. Salves can be combos and she would know if they work or not- Cayenne salve would work good- but it does burn a bit on application and works better the longer you use it. Good luck- let us know how all goes- June ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES Because of the nature and cost of the medications used to treat lupus, their potentially serious side effects and the lack of a cure, many patients seek other ways of treating the disease. Many therapies have been used, from herbal remedies and supplements to acupuncture and relaxation techniques. Many complementary physicians use substances to reduce inflammation such as: Flax seed oil Fish oils evening Primrose oil Borage seed oil B-group vitamins Magnesium-as a cofactor Other alternative approaches that have been suggested include: Special diets Nutritional supplements Fish oils Ointments and creams Chiropractic treatment Homeopathy Liquorice root and ginseng are believed to support adrenal function and can help to improve fatigue, but should not be used in patients taking beta blockers. Echinacea is widely used to treat cold and flu symptoms, but should not be used long-term if at all by lupus patients due to its' immune stimulating properties Acupuncture has been used to reduce pain, fatigue, malaise, insomnia and gastro-intestinal problems Anti- inflammatory herbs Arnica, Grape Seed, Irish Moss, Juniper, Licorice, Ma-huang, Marshmallow, Passion Flower, Pine Bark, Saw Palmetto, Shepherd's Purse, St. John's Wort, Turmeric, Valerian, White Willow, Wild Yam, Bilberry, Black Cohosh, Butcher's Broom, Calendula, Cat's Claw, Cayenne, Chamomile, Comfrey, Dong Quai, Echinacea, Garlic, Gential, Ginger, Ginkgo http://www.uklupus.co.uk/index.html ( lupus site) http://www.abouthealinglupus.com/bookdesc.html ( a book on alternative therapies) |
