Approximately a half million Americans at any given time are afflicted with multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic degenerative disease that attacks the central nervous system. It renders the victim susceptible to movement issues and plenty of pain. It can even affect one’s cognitive ability, hindering their ability to think clearly.
What MS actually does is attack a substance known as myelin, which when functioning properly works to coat and thus help protect the nerves throughout the body. This assault on this nerve coating results in a widespread disruption of the communication process among nerves, which in turn leads to progressively dysfunctional ability of the central nervous system.
Multiple sclerosis typically affects people in their early adulthood, and approved pharmaceutical medication options are few. Experts have identified two levels of the disease, a “relapsing-remitting” form distinguished by times of stability interrupted by MS relapses or attacks, and a secondary progressive MS (SPMS) type marked by continual worsening.
Although there is no known cure for multiple sclerosis, medications and the affordability and accessibility of natural remedies offer resources that can help tamp down the symptoms of MS, potentially enhancing the patient’s quality of life while maintaining a reasonable level of physical activity, such as walking and more.
7 Natural Remedies to Help Mitigate MS Symptoms
Following are seven of the supplements and herbs believed to have a positive effect for someone with MS. Be sure to discuss your use of any of these with your personal physician or other licensed healthcare professional before trying any of them.
Vitamin C. Not only can this popular vitamin ward off viruses such as colds, it apparently can stimulate the production of myelin as well as help protect your neurological system.
Vitamin D. Multiple sclerosis sufferers often show a vitamin D deficiency, which suggests its use can boost relief when it comes to the disease’s effects.
Fish Oil. Mackerel and salmon are types of fish that contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) which studies have shown capable of diminishing the incidence of MS relapses, reducing inflammation, and enhancing the overall quality of MS patients.
Gingko Biloba. This centuries-used Chinese herb is known mainly for its knack to boost cognitive performance. It has also been shown able to alleviate leg pain and overactive nerve responses, such as those associated with MS.
Milk Thistle. Research has indicated that this natural remedy appears to regulate immune system performance in those stricken with MS.
St. John’s Wort. Studies have shown that this herb can help counter symptoms of depression and inflammation, both of which are linked to the MS experience.
Turmeric. On the strength of its main ingredient curcumin, turmeric exhibits anti-inflammatory characteristics that suggest a potential for alleviating multiple sclerosis symptoms.
Although multiple sclerosis is a chronic condition that affects 500,000 Americans and has no cure, its debilitating symptoms can perhaps be reduced by natural remedies such as the supplements and herbs mentioned above. Again, be sure to discuss your possible use of any of them with a physician or other licensed healthcare professional.