An herbal extract holds promise for lupus patients as well. A 1996 study by Japanese researchers demonstrated licorice root to be helpful against autoimmune diseases. The root was known to be effective against inflammation, and researchers found that an extract of licorice significantly reduced the levels of immune complexes that are related to autoimmunity. Many people with lupus suffer from moderate to severe digestive problems. Health professionals had explained that lupus is a complicated condition and there may be many underlying imbalances, such as food allergies, nutrient deficiencies and Candida growth.
Probiotics are essential to good gastrointestinal health.
Prednisone and cortisone, common steroid treatment for lupus, are particularly destructive to friendly flora. Dysbiosis, an imbalance of flora, raises the intestinal pH, encouraging the growth of harmful substance. Hostile flora can cause a wide range of digestive complaints, as well as serious systemic disorders like food allergies and rheumatoid arthritis. The natural antibodies produced by L. acidophilus, L. bulgaricus and the bifidobacteria kill these disease-causing agents. It is imperative then to supplement with a multi-strain product.