Diagnosed with SLE at the age of 13, I understand the daily battles that lupus sufferers can go through. Extreme fatigue, joint pains and sore throats, were among the myriad of symptoms interfering with my schooling and previously active life. In my struggle to regain good health, I discovered natural therapies and have never looked back. Now, more than 15 years on since my diagnosis, I am a qualified naturopath and nutritionist, have been medication-free for over ten years, managing my condition with a combination of natural therapies.

Using natural therapies to treat lupus can be highly successful for many patients. As every lupus patient is different, the right combination of treatments must be found for each individual. Finding that right combination can be a challenge, and can only come from your own experiences, working with a qualified practitioner who can guide you in the right direction as well as patience and commitment.

A balanced approach is the best way to tackle lupus, using appropriate natural therapies that work in conjunction with your medical treatment. It is important to be under the care of a specialist or GP, who can monitor your condition and order medical tests as required, and you should keep both your doctor and your natural health practitioner informed of any medications and supplements you are taking.

Nutrition
The basis of treatment for any chronic condition is good nutrition. A balanced diet based on wholegrains, fresh fruit and vegetables and filtered water is essential, with as little as possible of fried foods and processed foods such as biscuits and cakes.

Specific foods to avoid include alfalfa (as it can cause lupus flares), artificial sweeteners and excessive dairy products and red meat as these can encourage inflammation in the body. Plants from the ‘nightshade family’ – potato, tomato, capsicum, eggplant and chilli contain a substance called solanine, which can interfere with enzymes in the muscles and may cause pain and discomfort in sensitive people. Testing and consequent treatment for food intolerances can also be helpful.

Foods to include in the diet are garlic, onions, celery, cinnamon, berries, ginger, turmeric, oily fish, fresh pineapple and fresh papaya which contain enzymes that reduce swelling, inflammation and pain.

Energy
Magnesium can help reduce fatigue and muscle pain, as well as relieve headaches and stress. Food sources of magnesium include wholegrains, nuts, leafy green vegetables and legumes. A magnesium supplement is often more effective, aim for 200-300mg per day. Coenzyme Q10 can also be beneficial, and if your blood tests show that you are iron deficient, a good iron supplement will lift your energy levels.

Inflammation & Joint Support
Omega-3 essential fatty acids primarily help reduce inflammation and pain, but as well, they can improve skin health, reduce depression and improve brain function, cardiovascular and immune health. Sources include oily fish, nuts, linseeds, avocado, or fish oil or flaxseed oil supplements. Other supplements that can help reduce inflammation and support joint health include glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, bromelain, boswellia and ginger. Topical ointments and liniments can give symptomatic relief, such as tiger balm or zen liniment.

Liver Health
In naturopathy, the liver and digestive system are often looked upon as being a contributor to many chronic illnesses, and so improving liver and digestive function are often key priorities. Simple ways to help boost liver function are drinking the juice of half a lemon in warm water first thing of a morning or taking 1 tspn of apple cider vinegar in warm water before meals. Herbs that can be useful to improve liver function include Cynara (Globe Artichoke), Dandelion Root and St. Mary’s Thistle, however it is best to seek professional advice before taking these herbs, as they can interact with medications.

Immune Regulation
Herbs are wonderful for treating lupus and tailor-made liquid tonics can be adapted to your needs. Astragalus is one of my favourite herbs for this condition as it helps to balance out and regulate the immune system.

Hormone Balancing
Many female lupus patients often have hormonal imbalances, evident by irregular periods, very heavy painful periods, prolonged PMS or severe menopause symptoms. As the liver is responsible for breaking down hormones, improving liver function and digestion, often balances the hormones indirectly. The herb Vitex is often useful as a hormone regulator, but this is best used under the supervision of a practitioner.

Physical Therapies & Exercise
Massage, acupuncture and shiatsu are great for keeping the circulation going and reducing pain. Gentle exercise done at your own pace such as yoga, walking, swimming and chi kung keep the body mobile and muscles supple, and can help relieve tension and stress without draining your energy.

Emotional Support & Stress Reduction
Emotional and mental health play a large part in any chronic illness, and because of the negative impact stress can have on the immune system, it is vital that stress is minimised. Having supportive family and friends who can offer both an ear to listen, and practical help when required is essential. The Lupus Association of NSW provides great support, literature, informative seminars and other resources to its members. Choose health care professionals that you feel rapport with, so you will feel comfortable to ask questions and voice concerns. Counselling or creative outlets such as art or writing can greatly help the expression of emotions. Supplements such as B vitamins can help with stress, as can herbs such as Oats, St. Johns Wort (not to be used with medications), Rhemannia and Licorice (not with high blood pressure). Flower essences come in a range of different types suited to support different emotional states and can be taken as drops under the tongue or mixed in with liquid herbal formulas.

Natural therapies can be very effective as a sole treatment or alongside conventional medicine in the treatment of lupus. As certain herbs can interact with medications, please consult with a qualified practitioner before taking any herbal medications.