Prednisone is often prescribed to treat people with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and asthmatic conditions, and is a steroid that offers fast and powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Prednisone is sometimes prescribed for painful conditions associated with the onset of cancer, as well. The steroid is associated with a number of harmful side effects, however, and some people would prefer using an herbal alternative to avoid the potential side effects associated with steroid use. Scientists are now beginning to reveal highly effective herbal alternatives to prednisone use.
Prednisone Use and Side Effects
Prednisone is a steroid with the ability to stop inflammation from occurring; this medication can be prescribed for the treatment of extreme allergies, skin disorders and rashes, ulcerative colitis, and breathing difficulties. The steroid is indeed powerful as an anti-inflammatory, but the numerous side effects make it a medication that is not good for long term uses. Prednisone can diminish immunological functioning, and the complete course of the medication must be taken exactly as prescribed to reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms.
If you use prednisone for an extensive period of time, you may suffer from a thinning of the skin, the accumulation of body fat in the waist, back, neck, and facial areas, sexual dysfunctions, and you may bruise with ease. If you are a woman, you may also face potential problems with menstruation when taking prednisone for long periods of time. Prednisone use is sometimes associated with insomnia, altered moods, the development of unwanted acne, the presence of dry skin, skin discoloring, slower healing of wounds, profuse sweating, vertigo, headaches, abdominal pain and nausea, and/or bloating. Finally, the extended use of prednisone is sometimes associated with severe depression, changes in personality, hypertension, and fluid retention.
Lig-Zhi, Ku-Shen, and Gan-Cao Herbal Combo
Recent testing conducted at the Weifan Asthma Hospital located in China, as well as studies conducted in New York at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, have unveiled Chinese herbs that can be utilized as an alternative to prednisone and other steroid medications. Researchers combined three distinct herbal extracts of Chinese origin identified as Lig-Zhi, Ku-Shen and Gan-Cao, which can be combined to offer the same positive effects of prednisone without the same negative side effects associated with steroid use. Patients were given 20 grams of Ling-Zhi, 3 grams of Gan-Cao, and 9 grams of Ku-Shen per day, which offered improved lung functioning in asthmatics without any side effects. Once the asthmatic condition passes, you can cease using the combination of non-steroidal herbs. These herbs can be purchased online or at a health store specializing in the sale of herbs.
Dong Quai
Dong Quai is an excellent alternative to prednisone being prescribed for pain control. Dong Quai offers natural anti-inflammatory properties as well as immunological boosting attributes. This herb also offers antispasmodic properties, and can be used for the treatment of pain in the abdominal region, arthritic conditions and for the treatment of headaches. Dong Quai can be safely consumed on a daily basis: the herb can be consumed at a dosage of two to four 530 mg capsules every day. Capsules should be consumed with a meal for ease of digestion, and pregnant and/or breast-feeding women should refrain from using the product. Dong Quai is sold in some drug stores, in health stores, and it is available online.
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