Health & Wellness

Adding healthy herbs and supplements to any diet can improve overall motor and cognitive functioning, but for those with multiple sclerosis, these natural additives can be especially helpful. Many doctors suggest naturally occurring herbs and minerals to help patients counteract common MS symptoms. Although they should not replace prescribed medications, taking these following herbs can help you manage your MS symptoms by reducing inflammation and strengthening the immune system.
  Ginger is a sweet substitute for honey that can help alleviate muscle and joint pain. As a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory, it can reduce the inflammation around the nerves and muscles that causes the stiffness and physical pain common with MS. Cutting up ginger root and adding it to some of your favorite meals or choosing to make a warm cup of tea out of it can bring delicious and healthy improvements to your daily lifestyle. Like ginger, chamomile can ease tension and relax muscles by reducing inflammation. Because of its relaxing tendencies, many patients choose to drink it in a tea. This can prove to be especially effective at night if physical pain prevents you from getting a full night’s sleep. Its sweet taste also makes for a delicious cake or glaze which can be paired with fresh fruit for a refreshing summertime snack. Dandelion is a fine substitute for caffeine and can help alleviate the fatigue that is brought on by the physical pain caused by MS symptoms. Dandelion comes in supplement form for those wary of eating a weed, but if you’re willing to take the risk, drinking it in a tea is a healthy option. Dandelion greens are also popular in salads, as they are rich in iron to help strengthen the immune system and provide energy. You can even mix them into hummus or pesto.

The list of herbs and supplements available to MS patients is extensive, but remember to moderate your consumption of these plants and vitamins until you are certain of how your body will react to them. They can never act as replacements for regularly prescribed medication but can be added to help alleviate tension, fatigue, and other conditions that are caused by or exacerbate symptoms.

Check with your doctor before you make any changes to your diet, and remember to stop eating something if it makes you feel ill. However, if your doctor gives you the green light, herbs can be a great alternative remedy to helping you reduce inflammation in your body and ultimately manage your symptoms.