Sjogren's syndrome is also known as sicca complex and is a chronic, autoimmune disorder causing drying and lymphocytic infiltration of the exocrine glands. This condition is seen more in women and is characterized by symptoms which include dry eyes, dry mouth, fatigue, muscular pains, dry skin, vaginal dryness, involvement of lymph node and parotid gland, polyneuropathy, and diseases of the kidney. This condition does not involve increased mortality; however, it can cause considerable disability from the symptoms.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment for Sjogren's syndrome is aimed at treating the symptoms as well as removing the root cause of the disease, and also addressing the issue of autoimmune origin. Herbal medicines which have a specific action on the exocrine glands are used in high doses and for prolonged periods in order to normalise the secretions from these glands, which in turn cause remission of symptoms of this condition.
Herbal medicines are also used to treat the lymphocytic infiltration in order to prevent further damage to the organs and prevent long-term complications. Immunomodulatory herbal medicines are especially important in the management of this condition since this is a chronic autoimmune disorder. Immunomodulation helps in obtaining early relief from the symptoms, reducing treatment time, bringing about a complete cure, and preventing a relapse.
Herbal medicines which reduce inflammation and strengthen the nervous system as well as the lymphatic circulation and lymph nodes are useful in the management of this condition. Medicines which have a protective action on the kidneys are also required to treat this condition and prevent long-term complications. Since Ayurvedic treatment for this condition requires some time to bring about a remission of symptoms, moisturizers can be utilised in the initial phases of the treatment in order to bring about an early relief from symptoms.
Depending upon the severity of the condition, most individuals affected with this condition require Ayurvedic herbal treatment for 4 to12 months. Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment thus has a significant role in the management and treatment for Sjogren's syndrome .
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com
