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Holistic Treatment for MS

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease that affects the central nervous system. It causes inflammation and destruction of myelin sheaths, which cover the nerves, leaving the nerves open to damage. Symptoms depend on which nerves are damaged. Some experience relapsing MS, where there are periods of acute attacks and recovery, and some suffer from progressive MS, which has no periods of stability. There are natural methods that can ease symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Be sure to tell your doctor about any supplements you choose to take.

  1. Herbal Treatments

    • Ginkgo improves blood flow to the brain and can help prevent relapses. Take 180 milligrams once a day. Soy lechithin reduces TNF production. TNF is a chemical produced by immune cells. MS causes this chemical to mistakenly attack nerve cells. Take 300 milligrams daily.

      Do not use ginkgo if you are taking blood-thinning medication. Soy lechithin can cause mild diarrhea when first used.

      People with MS should stay away from cistanche, ginseng and maitake. These herbs stimulate production of certain proteins that can cause the immune system to attack nerve cells in people with this condition.

    Chinese Formulas

    • Four Substance Decoction can provide relief from the blurred vision and dizziness often experienced by people with multiple sclerosis. Ophiopogonis Decoction alleviates the respiratory distress that usually accompanies MS. It also increases the effectiveness of steroid drugs sometimes used in treatment. Sairei-to also increases the effectiveness of steroid treatment.

      Avoid Ophiopogonis Decoction if there is a fever. Do not use Sairei-to if taking alpha-interferon.

    Other Suggestions

    • Eat a low-fat diet, but be sure to include essential fatty acids. A study of 150 people published in a 1998 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming fewer than 200 calories a day from fat greatly reduced the level of disability from the disease. Take 500 milligrams twice daily of black currant oil and flax seed oil capsules. Adequate vitamin D production helps prevent MS flare ups. Be sure to get 20 to 30 minutes of early morning or late afternoon sun exposure daily. This recommendation comes from a study published in the October 1997 edition of Proceedings of the Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine. Drink at least eight glasses of water daily to prevent toxins from accumulating in the muscles.

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