According to the Scleroderma Foundation, there are approximately 300,000 people in the United States diagnosed with scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis. This is a rare but chronic autoimmune disorder affecting the body’s connective tissues. Its causes are still unknown, but it is associated with excessive production of collagen. Although the condition is potentially fatal and has no cure, there is a natural remedy for scleroderma. In fact, there are several natural remedies that you can try that do not require a doctor’s prescription.
Herbal Remedies
Admittedly the effectiveness of herbs in the treatment of systemic sclerosis is yet to be scientifically proven. However, it has been proven that many well known herbs have healing properties that help alleviate specific symptoms. Used for many years, Gotu Kola is helpful in reliving joint pain, soothing hard skin, and improving finger-joint movement. Other herbs such as cleavers and red clover are used to reduce respiratory complications associated with the condition.
Horsetail, rich in silica, is used to alleviate and eventually stop the degeneration of connective tissues. Herbs such as comfrey, Siberian ginseng, devil’s claw and sassafras help in detoxifying the skin to ease skin hardening and improve elasticity. To benefit from these herbs, you should prepare them as herbal tea and use as advised by an herbal expert.
Evening prime rose is a medicinal herb and oil containing high levels of gamma-linoleic acid (GLC). GLC is an essential fatty acid, which aids the body in anti-inflammatory functions. The use of evening prime rose oil reduces tissue inflammation and aids in nerve development when used over a period of time.
Mind-Body Techniques
Raynaud’s phenomenon, a common and potentially fatal symptom of scleroderma, is caused by the constriction of blood vessels in the fingers and toes. It is triggered by stressful conditions such as cold temperatures and emotional distress. To reduce emotional and body stress, regular practice of mind-body techniques such as meditation, yoga, acupuncture and visualization is recommended. These techniques will boost the immune system and enhance blood flow to the extremities. It is preferable to eliminate stress as much as possible.
Lifestyle Remedies
Adopting a healthy diet is one of the best approaches toward alleviating systemic sclerosis symptoms. It is advisable to limit the amount of fat intake per calories and to consume a low protein, high carbohydrate diet.
Using mono-saturated oils such as olive or peanut oil and limiting cholesterol intake to 300 milligrams a day, is recommended. Regular, non-intensive exercises boost healthy blood flow. Patients should keep warm and stay away from smoking to avoid complications associated with pulmonary hypertension. Highly acidic foods such as those containing caffeine, tomatoes or citrus juices trigger an over accumulation of acid in the esophagus, causing severe heartburn.
In conclusion, it is advisable to consult a medical physician and a nutrition specialist before undertaking any natural remedy for scleroderma. Due to the varied symptoms and risk factors for people with this condition, remedies such as herbs and supplements may react differently from one person to another.
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