MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS)

What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common autoimmune disorders, in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. MS causes inflammation within the central nervous system (CNS). Gradually, damage to nerve fibers and myelin (a fatty substance that coats and insulates nerve fibers within the CNS) disrupts normal CNS functions. People with MS may experience a range of neurological symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, and vision problems. MS can be difficult to diagnose, because symptoms vary so widely. MS sufferers generally experience relapses and remissions, making it unpredictable.

The exact cause of MS is not fully understood, and there is no known cure. However, there are a number of ways to manage symptoms and alleviate discomfort. In western medicine, treatments include medication to relieve pain and spasms, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, steroids and beta-interferon. Disease-modifying drugs may slow the progression of MS.

Many MS patients seek out alternative treatments, including Chinese herbal formulas and acupuncture. Many common MS symptoms may be alleviated through Chinese herbs and a series of acupuncture sessions.

Chinese Medicine & Multiple Sclerosis

From a TCM perspective, multiple sclerosis (MS) is known as a type of wei zheng, which is a type of Atrophy Syndrome (a part of the body to be reduced in size and therefore strength, or, more generally, to become weaker). Invasion of external Dampness is an important cause of disease in the beginning stages. External Dampness can invade the legs first and creep upwards.

According to Chinese Medicine theory, the organs usually involved are the Spleen, Liver and Kidneys. There are two basic patterns of Multiple Sclerosis: Damp-Phlegm with Spleen Deficiency and Liver and Kidney Deficiency. Both can be treated with acupuncture and Chinese herbs formulas which are prescribed to help considerably alleviate symptoms and slow down the progress of multiple sclerosis.

There is evidence that acupuncture has neuro-protective effects in other degenerative disorders, including Parkinson’s and dementia. Acupuncture may inhibit the accumulation of toxic proteins, modulate glucose metabolism and depress neuronal apoptosis. The earlier the treatment is started, the better.

Acupuncture for Multiple Sclerosis

Acupuncture treatment dredge the meridians and blood vessels, reconcile yin and yang, and ward off evil by applying needle on acuppoint on the scalp, limbs and abdomen. Studies have pointed out that scalp acupuncture can stimulate the function of the cerebral cortex to promote the repair of cortical nerve cells and improve the function of nerve conduction; Acupuncture on the limbs is to clear the meridians, improve limb weakness and movement disorders. Abdominal acupuncture points such as Qihai and Guanyuan have the effect of benefiting kidney qi and regulating qi.

By selecting different acupoints and manipulations, acupuncture can refresh the brain and clear the meridians, which can improve sleep, fatigue, and limb weakness for MS patients. If treatment begins at the very early stages the symptoms can be completely eliminated and the disease halted indefinitely. You may refer to the article ” Can Acupuncture Help Treat Multiple Sclerosis“, if you want to know more about how acupuncture help with Multiple Sclerosis(MS). 

4 Chinese herbal medicine for Multiple Sclerosis

Chinese herbal medicine are used to fortify the body’s ability to remove the phlegm and ensure proper fluid circulation and metabolism.

• Gotu kola（积雪草）: Gotu kola is a popular traditional medicine in Chinese history. It’s been promoted as an herb that can lengthen life and improve symptoms of eye diseases, swelling, inflammation, skin conditions, and fatigue.
• Ginkgo biloba（银杏）: Renowned for its potential to improve memory and mental clarity, ginkgo has been used for a wide variety of ailments over the centuries.
• Chinese hemp seed(火麻仁) : This traditional Chinese medicine, used for its sedative properties for a variety of illnesses, is believed to soothe problems of the nervous system.
• Myrrh（末药）: Myrrh has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It’s believed to have antiseptic abilities and the power to treat diabetes, circulation problems, and rheumatism.