Multiple
sclerosis
This degenerative disease, most prominent in those
of Caucasian and Nordic descent, involves damage to the myelin sheath
of the nerves. Nervous impulses, both somatic and autonomic, become
compromised and erratic, leading to a loss of motor control and
balance, and often presenting moderate to severe pain. Since any
nervous tissue can be affected, symptoms can be cognitive, emotional,
sensory, or involving autonomic organs (i.e. increased urinary frequency,
constipation, etc…)
There is usually a cyclic nature, with exacerbations and remissions,
to M.S., which provides a useful way to measure subjective improvement
over “baseline”.
Treatment Goal(s):
· Tonify nervous system and supplement adrenals as necessary
to reduce symptoms; reduce inflammation.
Primary Treatment:
· Administer Avena sativa (Oats) in large and frequent doses.
· Use adaptogens such as Rhodiola rosea and Eleutherococcus
senticosus (Siberian Ginseng) to increase stamina and endurance.
· Administer Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) to reduce inflammation
and pain while also supplementing adrenal function.
Supportive Treatment:
· External applications of cool compresses (perhaps containing
Peppermint) can be helpful.
· Heat usually exacerbated the condition. Shade the patient
from intense sun and consider staying indoors at the hottest time
of the day.
· An elimination diet may isolate aggravating factors (sugar,
caffeine feature prominently).
Differential diagnoses, cautions, and other considerations:
· Ensure that there is no underlying infection present (Epstein-Barr,
Lyme disease, etc…)
· Often, depressive components will be present as well. Monitor
the patient closely for signs of depression, despondency and apathy;
provide the requisite support or refer to a qualified care provider
as indicated.
