Lupus is also known as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). More than five million people are affected by all over the world. This is a disease that affects the immune system that attacks the tissues causing chronic inflammation in the body. Lupus is a chronic disease which is capable of affecting a variety of organs in the body.
Findings reveal that Lupus affects more women are affected than men. Women between the age group five to fifteen fall victims to Lupus. SLE affects all the major organs of the body like heart, skin, lung, joints, blood vessels, kidney, liver and the nervous system.
The treatment of lupus is made difficult due to the ignorance of people and lack of awareness about the disease. Most symptoms are misleading and taken for arthritis or multiple sclerosis. There is no specific test that can determine the presence of Lupus.
Ayurveda For Lupus
Ayurveda is an ancient and holistic medical system that dates back to 50000 years ago. This system focuses on letting the body heal itself through natural process by correcting the disturbed energies. These energies are known as doshas in Ayurveda and the balance of these three doshas is necessary for good health. Ayurvedic treatment therefore comprises of herbal medicines, diet adjustments and lifestyle adjustments. Ayurveda texts recommend palliative treatment in cases with the same symptoms like those of Lupus.
Symptoms Of Lupus
Symptoms and are fever, joint pains, malaise and fatigue. The typical “butterfly rash” begin to appear on the face. It may manifest as ulcers on other areas like mouth, nasal and vagina. Some patients may develop Anemia and low hemoglobin levels. When the disease reaches an advanced state other symptoms relating to the heart, kidney and liver may also begin to manifest.
Ayurvedic treatment of Lupus
A wholesome and healthy diet that includes all the necessary vitamins and minerals is the most effective way to prevent and treat lupus. It should be ensured that the patient gets good nutritious diet and exercise. Breathing exercises and meditation are also recommended to patients with Lupus for calming the nervous system. It can also calm the patient and significantly reduces the risk of skin flare ups.
Ayurveda treatments involve the use of immune-modulatory medicines present in herbs such as Withania somnifera, Asparagus racemosus, Tinospora cordifolia, Glycerrizha glabra, Piper longum and Rubea cordifolia. For treating joint and muscular pains Ayurveda suggests the use of a mixture of powerful medicinal combinations with ingredients like Embelia ribes, Vetiveria zizanoides, Cedrus deodara, Carum roxburghianum, Allium sativum, Tribulus terristeris, Pluchea lanceolata and Zingiber officinale. When there are skin rashes the treatment involves the use of local ointments and also oral medications that contain black bitumen, Balsamodendron mukul, Terminalia chebula, Phyllanthus emblica, Plumbago zeylanica and Picrorhiza kurroa.
When there is hair fall which is mostly associated with SLE, the treatment involves the use of oils and other oral medications like Cocculus lack and Cissus quadrangularis. In some cases SLE may cause nervous disorders like convulsions, paralysis, depression and psychosis. These conditions are cured by using medicines like Bacopa monnieri, Nardostachys Jatamansi and Raulwofia serpentina. If the lungs are affected, the condition is treated with potent herbs like Inula racemosa. Herbs such as Terminalia arjuna and Embelica officinalis are useful in the treatment of Reynaud’s phenomenon. The treatment of kidney dysfunctions involves the use of a medicine prepared by a macerating the paste of Terminalia chebula in cow’s urine.
Lupus Nephritis
Lupus nephritis is a condition where there is irritation of the kidney caused by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a disease of the immune system. SLE is directly responsible for the damage that happens to the skin, joints, kidneys, and brain.
Causes of Lupus Nephritis
The causes of Lupus may one or more of the following:
1. Gender - SLE is more common in women than men
2. Genetics - hereditary factors
3. Infections - Viruses
4. Environmental reasons
Symptoms of Lupus Nephritis
Symptoms of lupus nephritis normally seen in patients with Lupus Nephritis are
1. Blood in the urine
2. Foamy look to urine
3. High blood pressure
4. Swelling of any region of the body
Treatment of Lupus Nephritis
The treatment focuses on restoring the proper function of the kidneys.