Are there any natural treatments for lupus?

Share on Pinterest

Currently, there is no cure for lupus. Treatments aim to lessen symptoms, reduce organ damage, and prevent flares.

Natural treatments for lupus do exist, but their effectiveness is uncertain. According to the Office on Women’s Health, some people who try natural treatments claim to benefit from them, but research has not produced conclusive evidence regarding benefits and potential harm.

No, it is not possible to self-treat lupus. While some medications that may help reduce symptoms are available over the counter, such as pain medication, lupus can cause damage to the body that a person cannot see, which may have lasting consequences.

Only a medical professional can monitor this. They can also recommend evidence-based treatments that are tailored to a person’s situation.

If someone is considering natural treatments for lupus, it is best to talk with a doctor first, wherever possible. Natural treatments can have risks and may interact negatively with other medications.

There is no specific diet that helps with lupus. Instead, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend eating a range of nutritious foods to generally support health. People with lupus should also avoid alfalfa, as there is some evidence linking it with flare-ups.

Nutritious foods include:

• fruits and vegetables
• whole grains, such as oats, whole wheat, or quinoa
• lean proteins, such as chicken, fish, or tofu

A doctor may recommend avoiding or eating more of certain foods based on individual needs.

There are several supplements that researchers have examined for their potential positive effects on lupus.

Curcumin

Curcumin is a compound in turmeric. Research has shown that curcumin has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties in people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Curcumin may also have immunomodulatory effects, which means it may help reduce the immune response.

According to a 2022 review, previous studies suggest that curcumin may help treat SLE by preventing B cell activation and oxidative stress and by inhibiting antibody production. However, more large-scale trials are necessary to determine its safety and effects.

Omega-3 fish oils

Omega-3 fatty acids are substances that occur naturally in several foods, particularly fish. They can have anti-inflammatory effects, making them potentially useful for lupus.

A 2022 systematic review examined fish oil’s effects on both SLE and cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE), which is a form of SLE that only affects the skin.

In one study, omega-3 fish oils improved skin findings and positively affected the Systemic Lupus Activity Measure (SLAM) index, which is what the researchers used to measure disease severity.

Vitamin D

Many people with SLE have vitamin D deficiency. One review suggests that vitamin D deficiency could aggravate SLE or be a potential risk factor for it, and SLE, in turn, may also reduce vitamin D levels.

This is important because vitamin D has regulatory effects on the immune system. However, one of the main sources of vitamin D is sunlight, and sunlight can trigger lupus symptoms. As a result, it may be helpful for people with the condition to take vitamin D supplements instead.

The review examined multiple studies, one of which showed that pro-inflammatory cytokine levels improved with vitamin D supplementation after 12 months. However, more research is necessary.

Green tea

Green tea contains a compound called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Previous research has shown that EGCG may benefit the immune system by:

• increasing the number of regulatory T cells
• modulate cytokine production
• suppress autoimmunity

However, research on green tea’s effects in patients with SLE is limited, and its efficacy is uncertain.

DHEA

DHEA is a steroid hormone that helps control inflammation. Some people with SLE have reduced DHEA, leading some to speculate that it might be helpful for people to take it as a supplement.

However, studies that have examined DHEA supplementation for SLE offer mixed results. Some participants experienced mild benefits, but people also reported side effects, including acne, excessive hair growth, and lowered “good” cholesterol.

Mind-body therapies are a group of complementary treatments that focus on how the mind and body work together, influencing mood, concentration, and memory. They may help a person cope with the impacts of the condition.

Cognitive rehabilitation

Many people with lupus experience cognitive dysfunction, regardless of whether the condition is directly affecting their brain or nervous system. This can cause symptoms that affect a person’s attention, memory, and ability to tell where objects are in space.

Cognitive rehabilitation focuses on restoring cognitive function through education and cognitive training exercises, such as playing chess. Rehabilitation can also include memory aids, prioritization, and time optimization training.

Cognitive behavioral therapy

In addition to the physical effects of lupus on cognitive function, living with the condition can also be challenging and affect a person’s mental health.

Cognitive behavioral therapy may assist with this by helping a person identify difficult emotions and what is causing them. A therapist then helps a person learn coping skills, stress management, and relaxation techniques.

People with lupus who are considering trying natural treatments should speak with a doctor beforehand. They will be able to advise on whether the treatment is safe for them or whether it is likely to be beneficial.

People should also speak with their doctor if they experience any treatment side effects or new symptoms while using natural treatments or if their current regimen is not working.

Below are frequently asked questions about lupus.

What is the life expectancy with lupus?

Life expectancy with lupus depends on several factors, such as the severity of the condition and an individual’s response to treatment. However, with close monitoring and treatment, 80–90% of people with lupus can have a typical life expectancy.

Can people with lupus live alone?

It is possible to manage lupus and even reach a stage of remission. A person with lupus can live alone, but having a strong support network is often of great benefit. For example, severe flares can impair a person’s mobility and can make seeking care difficult; having people around in these instances can be a great help.

What triggers lupus?

Lupus will affect people differently. However, common lupus triggers include:

• lack of rest
• UV and other light exposure
• injuries
• infections
• medication cessation
• medication interactions

Does lupus get worse with age?

Tissue damage from lupus can accumulate over time, meaning that symptoms such as joint stiffness and chronic pain may worsen with age. However, with proper observation and management, many people with lupus can live healthy, productive lives.

Can lupus be cured permanently?

There is no cure for lupus. Treatments aim to lessen symptoms, reduce organ damage, and prevent flares.

No form of treatment can cure lupus. However, there is some evidence that certain natural treatments may help reduce the symptoms and inflammation it causes. These include curcumin, omega-3s, vitamin D, and green tea.

Natural treatments cannot replace medical treatment for lupus. The disease can cause damage to the body, and despite some limited evidence suggesting that the above supplements are beneficial, there is no evidence that they can treat lupus on their own.

People with lupus require support from a doctor. Anyone considering natural options should speak with a doctor before trying them, as they may not be suitable for everyone.