Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system and may cause unpleasant symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, and problems with balance and coordination. Certain herbs have been explored for their brain-health benefits, and some may even help with the management of MS symptoms. We’ll examine the facts behind herbs for multiple sclerosis.
A significant health condition or illness diagnosis can be a single blow to your existing wellness routine and schedule. From cancer to diabetes and heart disease, many illnesses can create lifelong challenges in maintaining wellness and disruptions to daily routines. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an illness that affects many of the body’s systems and can be challenging to manage. With roughly one million Americans living with the condition, there have been significant claims about how to treat the disorder. In this article, we’ll briefly overview MS, its origins, symptoms, and current medical treatment options and examine some holistic, herbal alternatives that may relieve some disease symptoms.
You May Also Like:
Health Benefits Of Ground Turmeric
THE BENEFITS OF ANTI AGING HERBS
Herbs for multiple sclerosis:
MS overview
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a lifelong, chronic neurological disorder where the body’s cells attack the myelin or the protective coating surrounding nerve endings in the central nervous system. With MS, the protective covering around nerves gets destroyed, which causes the formation of scar tissue around the nerve endings. Once damaged in this manner, the nerve endings fail to communicate the electrical signals appropriately to and from the brain.
As MS impacts the ability of some nerve endings to conduct electrical signals, the symptoms associated with MS can vary greatly. These can include physical symptoms like tingling sensations or experiencing unexplained weakness in the body. In addition, vision changes, lack of coordination, cognitive issues, and mood disruptions are common symptoms in MS patients.
Herbs for multiple sclerosis:
MS causes and treatments
Though substantial research surrounds MS, the exact cause or causes for developing the condition are still vastly unknown. However, several factors appear to play a role in MS. These include genetic factors, some infectious diseases, some autoimmune diseases, and some environmental factors like smoking or spending long periods in the sun, which are all thought to either contribute to the development of the disease or to increase the risk of developing MS.
Diagnosis of MS typically occurs after a series of tests and can include MRI, lumbar punctures, blood work, and more. Though there is no cure for MS, treatment options are available to help reduce and manage the symptoms experienced with the disease. Medical treatments, such as corticosteroid injections, infusions, and oral medications, are commonly used to help reduce flare-ups.
Herbs for multiple sclerosis:
Holistic approaches
In addition to medical treatments, several holistic remedies are said to help with the symptoms of MS. Though there is little research to support these claims, some holistic means of symptom treatment include managing factors like diet and exercise, using therapy options, and taking herbal supplements or remedies for relief. Alternative treatments like massage therapy, acupuncture, reflexology, magnet therapy, and isolation tanks are standard holistic treatment options to provide relief for MS patients. Additionally, numerous herbal supplements purport to aid in managing MS symptoms, but only a few have undergone research to determine their potential benefits.
Herbs for multiple sclerosis:
Three herbal supplements for MS
Lion’s Mane (or Hieraciums erinaceus) is a mushroom native to parts of Europe, America, and Asia. For centuries, it has been a holistic remedy for numerous ailments, including neurological disorders such as MS. It supports and encourages healthy brain function with a bio-active ingredient for nerve growth factor. However, while there have been claims about Lion’s Mane having restorative properties for damaged nerve endings, studies have not yet confirmed these benefits. Therefore, though Lion’s Mane has not shown common adverse effects during use, it is still advisable to consult a physician beforehand.
Another commonly used herb for cognitive function is Ginkgo Biloba. Ginkgo is said to have restorative properties that help aid memory and mood. Unfortunately, some studies have shown that examining the potential benefits did not result in significant improvement for MS patients. Still, ginkgo is a frequently consumed supplement touted for its holistic benefits to cognitive function.
Salvia is another herbal remedy often suggested for MS patients. Salvia is an herb typically found in parts of Mexico and is thought to contain some psychoactive properties. For example, salvia affects the brain’s opioid receptors and may create a sense of mild euphoria. In addition, it has anti-inflammatory properties and has been used to improve cognitive function as a holistic remedy for years.
Herbs for multiple sclerosis:
Medicine Man Plant Co.’s The Brain Pill
When looking for herbal supplements to add to your daily routine, one of the most important factors to consider is the quality of the ingredients. Medicine Man Plant Co. prides itself on its products: “We seek out the highest-quality plants and mushrooms and acquire them responsibly & sustainably.” The Brain Pill is a proprietary blend of herbs and neurotrophins to improve memory, focus, and attention. With salvia, Lion’s Mane, and ginkgo, The Brian Pill may be an herbal supplement that can help support MS symptom relief.
Herbs for multiple sclerosis:
Final thoughts
MS is a lifelong condition that presents an array of challenges and complications. While research has focused on providing treatment options, much is still unknown about the disease’s origins or potential treatments. Holistic remedies are one means that MS patients may use to help provide temporary relief from some symptoms. While herbal remedies are generally safe, it is essential to consult a physician before consuming them.
For further reading:
Bottaro, A. Natural treatments for multiple sclerosis
Johns Hopkins Medicine. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Lovera JF, Kim E, Heriza E, Fitzpatrick M, Hunziker J, Turner AP, Adams J, Stover T, Sangeorzan A, Sloan A, Howieson D, Wild K, Haselkorn J, Bourdette D. Ginkgo biloba does not improve cognitive function in MS: a randomized placebo-controlled trial.
Mayo Clinic. Multiple sclerosis
Margetts G, Kleidonas S, Zaibi NS, Zaibi MS, Edwards KD. Evidence for anti-inflammatory effects and modulation of neurotransmitter metabolism by Salvia officinalis
Medical News Today. Lion’s mane and multiple sclerosis: Is it effective?
Mount Sinai. Multiple sclerosis
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Multiple sclerosis
National MS Society. Preliminary Results of MS Prevalence Study Estimate Nearly 1 Million Living with MS in the U.S.
Important Note: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional in order to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.
Regarding Nutritional Supplements Or Other Non-Prescription Health Products: If any nutritional supplements or other non-prescription health products are mentioned in the foregoing article, any claims or statements made about them have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and such nutritional supplements or other health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
