An autoimmune disease is a condition where the body’s immune system becomes weakened and the regular defense mechanism is compromised. This causes the immune system to attack healthy cells. Medical experts regard it as fighting against one’s self. Depending on the kind and causative agents, an autoimmune disease can affect any body tissue or organ. This often causes damage, dysfunction, and altered growth of organs.
Autoimmune diseases affect up to 50 million Americans. It is often genetic. Statistics show that 75% of those affected are women. Most of the known autoimmune diseases have similar symptoms making specific diagnosis even more difficult.
# Coconut OilAside from its skin and hair care benefits, coconut oil is useful in preventing atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a heart condition which occurs where lipid profiles are stored, resulting in high cholesterol levels and hypertension.
Coconut oil contains lauric acid, a component that reduces the level of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and protects the arteries from damage. It is advisable to consume two or three tablespoons of coconut oil daily to combat this condition. It is also recommended for maintaining the lipid profiles of pre-menopausal women.
# GingerAlthough widely used as a spice, ginger is effective against many autoimmune diseases due to its natural healing properties. It is an analgesic, detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant agent. These therapeutic properties strengthen the immune system and alleviate nausea, arthritis pain, and dysmenorrhea.
Steep in boiling water, add honey and sliced orange to make a relieving brew. Alternatively, ground ginger may be used to spice dishes and cure dysmenorrhea.
# PineapplePineapple is another outstanding home remedy for autoimmune diseases. Bromelain, the primary component present in all parts of the pineapple plant is a mixture of proteolytic enzymes. Bromelain has been found useful during pregnancy, allergy season, and anticoagulation therapies.
Peel and dice fresh pineapple and refrigerate for twenty minutes and eat daily. Put freshly peeled and diced pineapple in juicer alongside pieces of turmeric roots. Blend for a few minutes. Drink the juice three times daily to combat inflammation.
# Turmeric
Turmeric, an herbaceous plant of the ginger family, contains beneficial chemical components called curcuminoids. The turmeric plant has excellent anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. It has been used in treating various internal disorders such as indigestion, throat infections, the common cold, liver ailments, and skin sores.
To gain benefit from this home remedy, you can either add turmeric powder to meals or take 500 mg supplements of turmeric three times in a week, but consult a doctor first (if you are planning on using turmeric supplements).
# Moringa
Research has shown that Moringa affects blood lipid profile. Extracts from leaves contain low contents of polyphenol, a compound with many medicinal benefits. Mature seeds yield 38-40% clear and odorless edible oil.
Mash and cook to make soup to aid digestion. You can also consume 31% daily value per 100g to combat iron deficiency.
# HoneyHoney gets its sweetening flavor from naturally occurring sugars. Studies have proven the efficacy of honey in curing various autoimmune diseases. Below are use some of the ways that you can use honey to treat the symptoms of your autoimmune disorder-
- Honey contains a trace amount of hydrogen peroxide and can be used in dressing wounds and burns.
- For a chronic or an acute cough, a blend of honey and lemon is advised.
- Honey is considered a controlling agent for chemotherapy in cancer treatment.
- Apply honey on blisters and acne thrice daily.
- Honey therapy can be used to cure methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
# CucumberCucumber is commonly used as a detoxifier because of its high water content. Consuming cucumber can help eliminate and neutralize the presence of harmful toxins in the body. Cucumber skin has been discovered to contain cucurbitacins (resulting from their unique triterpene). Scientists have concluded that this blocks the development of cancer pathways and inhibits it spread.
Consuming cucumber also helps tone the skin. Applying its juice on skin conditions like acne and blackheads can also help clear blemishes.
# WaterOf course, water consumption is essential for maintaining body homeostasis. Dehydration causes an imbalance in the neurotransmitter composition of the brain. The proportionate depletion of some primary elements can result in health problems such as insulin-dependent diabetes, sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, Parkinson’s disease, as well as other pathological conditions. Warm water treatment also helps soothe joint pain and stiffness.
# Vitamin C and EFoods rich in vitamin C and E are essential for a functional immune system. It is important that you include them in your diet to help reduce the impact of autoimmune diseases. Foods rich in vitamin C and E include oranges, guava, vegetable oil, seeds, and papaya.
# Cayenne PepperConsuming cayenne pepper disrupts the chemical activity of pain neurotransmitters in the brain. Cayenne pepper is, therefore, useful for rheumatoid arthritis and spinal spondylitis pain. In addition, it improves overall blood circulation, prevents stiff back and painful joints.
- Mix one teaspoon each of cayenne pepper and honey. Take two or three teaspoonfuls daily.
- Add a half teaspoon of cayenne pepper to water and drink daily.
- Mix two tablespoons of cayenne pepper in half cup of coconut oil and use the mixture to massage affected area in rheumatoid arthritis cases.
# CinnamonCinnamon is a common treatment for diabetes and high blood pressure. It contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it excellent for relieving pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. It can also help inhibit the bacteria that line the gut in ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
Mix one teaspoon of cinnamon in warm water and add a minute amount of honey.
For relief in spondylitis and the rest, mix cinnamon in honey and apply on the affected area.
# Oregano OilOregano oil contains polyphenols including flavonoids, which are popular for removing free radicals from the body. It is also anti-inflammatory making it an important treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and spondylitis.
To use this home remedy to treat your autoimmune disorder, you can either add three drops of oregano oil to your tea or mix two drops of oregano oil in a tablespoon of coconut oil and apply to the affected area.
# Green TeaTaken from the dried leaves of Camellia sinensis, green tea is a popular beverage consumed all around the world. It has anti-inflammatory properties (from polyphenolic compounds) and is beneficial for treating rheumatoid arthritis. Drink this tea up to three times a day to treat your autoimmune disorder symptoms.
# SpirulinaSpirulina is a blue-green cyanobacterium consumable by human and animals. Dried spirulina contains about 60% complete protein containing all essential amino acids. It is an adequate natural remedy for autoimmune disorders. Its rich minerals, vitamins, fats, and carbohydrates make it a dietary supplement for people with diabetes. It is also used in poultry and aquaculture industries. Spirulina also increases the quantity of infection-fighting immune factors in the body. In other words, it boosts immunity.
# YuccaAlthough this herb is not popular, it is an effective natural remedy for autoimmune diseases. When consumed in its natural form, it acts as a pain reliever and can ease joint pain and stiffness associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
# Rosehip
In a study conducted to ascertain the efficacy of rosehip herb on rheumatoid arthritis, the patients were given a daily dose of 5g rosehip powder. At the end of the experiment, the patients had substantial relief from arthritis pain.
# Avoid GlutenGluten, a protein commonly found in wheat, barley, and rye, could trigger allergic reactions and contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases like celiac sprue. Ensure you avoid it entirely.