Lupus

Although much research has been done on this autoimmune disease, we still are not sure on what causes this ailment.

What we do know is that lupus flare ups can be extremely uncomfortable for sufferers and while there is no known cure, there are many home remedies that can be useful in reducing the discomfort of Lupus.

Causes of Lupus:

Lupus is an autoimmune deficiency disease where the body attacks its own tissue.

There has been a general consensus that lupus is caused by a mixture of variables that can include genetics and hereditary factors, hormone imbalances, viruses/bacterial infections, medications and environmental stresses such as exposure to ultraviolet light and toxic chemicals.

Symptoms of Lupus:

The tell-tale signs of lupus are the bright red rash marks that frequently appear as a ‘butterfly’ shape across the cheeks and nose.

The main feelings that are experienced during a flare up are similar to the flu: fatigue, loss of appetite, fever, aches and pains, swollen glands and nausea. Some people also experience hair loss and depression as a result of lupus.

Natural Cures for Lupus:

If you suffer from lupus but do not want to resort to costly prescriptions that can have ill side effects, using alternative therapies and natural cures may be a good choice for you.

The list of natural cures for lupus flare up discomfort includes reiki, acupuncture and homeopathy, but there are also many things that you can do at home to try and ease the pain.

Food

Many lupus patients find that a great natural cure to reduce lupus flare ups is to exclude refined foods from the diet, most notably white sugar, salt, white flour, white pasta, and dairy.

It is also believed that eating a diet that reduces acidity in the body is an effective home remedy to lupus flare ups.

To reduce acid in the body, include plenty of fruits, lean protein, ginger, garlic and vegetables.

A whole foods diet is a great natural cure to controlling lupus.

Dietary Supplements

Lupus patients have difficulty absorbing vitamins and minerals from food sources, which can make symptoms worse.

Give your body a boost in fighting a flare up by taking dietary supplements that include calcium, folic acid, vitamin e, vitamin c, vitamin d, zinc, magnesium, biotin, potassium, selenium and beta carotene.

Herbs

To reduce inflammation, supplements that contain omega 3 fatty acids (also found in oily fish), flaxseed oil or cat’s claw are useful.

Stress Reduction

Lupus flare ups occur more frequently in times of stress; therefore it is wise to do at least one of the following activities to keep stress levels down:

• Exercise (yoga and tai chi are recommended)
• Get lots of rest
• Meditation