Lupus is a complex chronic condition that can affect multiple systems of the body. Management typically involves medications that modify the immune system, but natural treatments may also help reduce symptoms.

Lupus is an autoimmune condition. It develops when the immune system mistakenly targets healthy tissue in the body. This, in turn, produces antibodies that circulate in the bloodstream and trigger inflammation.

While several types of lupus exist, the most common form is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). SLE can affect multiple organ systems and is often seen in the skin, joints, heart, and kidneys.

Natural treatments for lupus exist, but they’re generally used as complementary therapies alongside conventional treatments. No natural remedy for lupus has been proven to provide a cure on its own. But for some people, these options may help improve symptoms, quality of life, and overall health and well-being.

Natural treatment options for lupus include:

The use of specific vitamins as natural treatments for lupus is a complex topic. Low levels of certain vitamins, like vitamin D, have been associated with lupus. But the link between other vitamins and lupus remains unclear.

In general, research from 2018 suggests vitamins A, E, C, B, and D have beneficial anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate immune responses in lupus.

However, how much of a vitamin you take matters. The Lupus Foundation of America recommends avoiding excessive vitamin E and A due to adverse side effects.

Experts recommend eating a balanced diet to avoid vitamin overdose and ensure beneficial levels of these essential compounds without the risk of complications.

A doctor can monitor your vitamin levels through regular blood work. If certain values are low on your results despite a balanced diet, a doctor may recommend supplements.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is the supplement form of the amino acid cysteine. Cysteine is an important component in fighting free radicals in the body that cause oxidative stress.

Supplementing with NAC can raise cysteine levels. NAC also has antioxidant properties and helps combat the effects of oxidative stress, such as chronic inflammation.

In a 2023 randomized, double-blind clinical trial, researchers found that NAC supplementation at 1,800 milligrams (mg) per day may effectively reduce SLE disease activity and its symptoms.

Turmeric is a spice used in cooking and certain forms of traditional medicine. The active ingredient curcumin gives turmeric its beneficial properties as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant supplement.

Research on the use of turmeric in lupus is limited. According to a 2023 systematic review, it’s a supplement that holds promise as a complementary therapy for lupus. But more research is needed to determine a recommended dose.

Plant cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. They include tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), among others.

Your body has a natural cannabinoid network called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). ECS helps regulate pain, modify stress responses, and manage inflammation and immune function.

Emerging research suggests dysfunction in the ECS may exist in lupus, and using cannabinoid products could help some people manage symptoms of pain and inflammation. More research is necessary before this is considered a recommended practice.

To date, there’s no standardized lupus diet, but paying attention to what you eat and drink is still important in managing lupus.

Your diet ensures you’re getting the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients you need daily. Your diet also supports your other treatments by reducing inflammation and stress from inadequate nutrition.

In a 2020 systematic review, researchers found that a diet balanced in calories and protein but high in fiber, polyunsaturated fats (like omega-3), and micronutrients could help modify immune and inflammatory processes in SLE.

Mind-body interventions are therapeutic techniques that focus on balancing your mental and physical well-being. Examples include:

Mind-body interventions are about healing, reducing stress, and promoting relaxation. When combined with conventional therapies, they may help with lupus symptoms by reducing external factors (like stress) that add to inflammation in the body.

A small 2021 randomized controlled trial found that mindfulness-based stress reduction helped improve quality of life and reduce psychological distress and pain perception among participants living with SLE.

Natural treatments aren’t for everyone, and lupus affects each person differently. It may be helpful to consider the following questions to determine whether a treatment is right for you:

  • Why do I want to add a natural treatment to my management plan?
  • What’s the evidence supporting this treatment?
  • What specific symptoms can this treatment help with? Does this align with my needs?
  • What are the possible risks?
  • How long will it take to see improvements?
  • Could this treatment negatively affect my other medications or therapies?
  • Does my doctor support this decision?
  • How will I track my progress and safe usage?
  • Is this treatment sustainable in the long term?
  • Is this treatment affordable?

Even natural treatments for lupus can lead to side effects. They may not be right for everyone. So it’s important to consider individual factors like age, overall health, underlying medical conditions, and personal preferences.

Before starting any natural therapy, consider discussing the decision with a doctor first. They can walk you through any necessary testing you’ll need to ensure natural treatments are safe.

What are the natural treatments for lupus?

Natural treatment options for lupus include increasing the amount of vitamins you consume, such as vitamin D, and adding more turmeric into your diet.

What are the treatment options for lupus?

Treatment options for lupus typically include immunosuppressive medications, such as azathioprine (Imuran) and mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept).

Lupus is a chronic medical condition in which the immune system attacks healthy tissues. Conventional management involves medications and lifestyle modifications. But natural treatments can support the current therapy plan.

Before starting any vitamins, supplements, or new routines, consider discussing their safety and potential side effects with a doctor. Not all natural treatments for lupus are right for everyone or should be added without prior screenings and tests.