Ginseng improves quality of life and fatigue in multiple sclerosis patients

Monday, March 25, 2013 by: Katie BrindAmour
Tags: Ginseng, multiple sclerosis, clinical research

(NaturalNews) A recent double-blind, randomized pilot trial has found evidence that regular ginseng supplementation may reduce fatigue caused by Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Researchers at the Isfahan University of Medical Sciences also found that ginseng supplementation may improve patients' reports of quality of life indicators.

Over 50 participants completed the pilot study; subjects were assigned to receive either two placebo pills or two 250 mg tablets of ginseng for a period of three months. During this time period, no adverse events were reported. Both a reduction in fatigue and an improvement in reported quality of life (measured through questionnaires) were significant for individuals taking the ginseng supplement.

Although this small trial is not conclusive, it does indicate that ginseng supplementation may be a viable option for natural treatment of certain MS side effects. Fatigue and depression commonly factor among the long list of related ailments affecting people with MS. Ginseng may interact with some pharmaceuticals, but under consultation with a physician or pharmacist, it can often be safely taken and well tolerated.

Natural relief for MS symptoms

Ginseng is not the only herbal remedy for MS symptoms or the side effects of MS medications. Many natural treatments for MS exist, including vitamins, minerals, herbs, and supplements. Other treatments, such as yoga, speech therapy, bladder control training, and meditation have also received considerable support for their effectiveness at battling certain MS-related problems.

Many individuals with MS experience symptoms such as numbness or tingling in joints, nerve degeneration, mental deterioration, walking or balance problems, bladder infections or bowel dysfunction, vision problems, pain, spasticity, and other conditions related to nerve and muscle health. In some cases, tremors, swallowing problems, seizures, hearing loss, and breathing troubles may also occur.

CoQ-10, DHA, ginger, magnesium, multivitamins, sage, turmeric, and zinc are just a handful of the treatment options that show promise for people with MS. In most cases, additional research is needed but imminent. Such natural remedies often target fatigue, eye degeneration, memory and concentration, sleep problems, nerve pain or degeneration, infections, inflammation, and muscle strength. Because many natural treatments can interact with prescription medications, always ask a health professional about potential problems with any specific drugs currently being used.

Sources for this article include:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23301896
http://www.healthline.com
http://www.nationalmssociety.org

About the author:
Katie BrindAmour is a Certified Health Education Specialist and passionate health and wellness freelance writer. She enjoys cooking, yoga, gardening, searching for the perfect wine and chocolate combination, and spending time with friends. She has a Masters in Biology and is currently pursuing her PhD in Health Services Management and Policy. She also enjoys blogging for Women's Healthcare Topics and Healthline Networks.