# Alternative treatments for systemic lupus erythematosus
In systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), many patients seek supplements to or alternatives for standard treatment. This tab describes treatments outside regular medical practice, and what current research shows about them. It is important to know that SLE is a serious autoimmune disease in which standard treatment (corticosteroids, immunosuppressants) has proven ability to prevent life-threatening complications.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and herbal preparations
ResearchediPositive results in clinical studies, not yet standard treatment
Various TCM formulas have been tested in laboratories and animal studies for possible effects in SLE. Examples include Jianpi Zishen Formula, Xijiao Dihuang Decoction and Jieduquyuziyin prescription. These studies measure changes in inflammatory markers and immune cells, and examine mechanisms such as changes in fat metabolism and cellular signaling pathways.
So far, these studies have mainly been done outside the body (in cells and animals) and not directed at actual patients with SLE. There are no large, well-conducted clinical trials showing that these preparations improve SLE symptoms or progression. Without evidence of efficacy and safety in human patients, these treatments cannot be said to help. Moreover: herbs can interfere with regular SLE medications and damage the kidneys, which is extra risky in SLE.
Tripterygium glycosides
ResearchediPositive results in clinical studies, not yet standard treatment
Tripterygium (a plant from Southeast Asia) contains substances that can suppress inflammatory responses in test tubes and animals. Some small studies in SLE patients noted reductions in swelling and muscle complaints. However: the amount of research in human patients is still small, and side effects (stomach complaints, sometimes severe reactions) are well documented. Whether it truly works better than standard treatment has not been demonstrated.
Cupping therapy
Advised againstiProven ineffective or harmful, or dangerous in combination with your treatment
Cupping is used in some traditional practices for various conditions, including SLE. There is no scientific evidence that cupping helps with the autoimmune disease itself. Moreover: cupping can cause skin damage and infections, and in patients with a weakened immune system (such as in SLE) infections can have serious consequences. In extreme cases, complications such as nerve damage have been reported.
Diet changes and dietary supplements
ResearchediPositive results in clinical studies, not yet standard treatment
Many patients try to adjust their diet, for example by eating anti-inflammatory foods or by avoiding or adding certain fats. Theoretically logical, because diet and immune function are connected. In practice, however, research into diet in SLE is very limited. There is no proven diet that helps SLE.
A few nutrients (omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, antioxidants) have been examined in small studies, but without clear results. Vitamins and supplements can also interact with SLE medications and may strain the kidneys.
**Caution is advised:** patients with kidney disease as a result of SLE must limit fluid intake and certain minerals (potassium, sodium) – something only the treating physician should decide.
Homeopathy
UnproveniNo scientific evidence that it works
Homeopathic remedies are recommended by some for autoimmune diseases. There is no scientific evidence that homeopathy works in SLE. Homeopathic preparations usually contain no active substances (due to dilution), so they cannot treat SLE. The risk is that patients delay or discontinue regular treatment.
Acupuncture
ResearchediPositive results in clinical studies, not yet standard treatment
Acupuncture has been examined for some symptoms that patients with SLE have, such as pain complaints and fatigue. The evidence is weak and the studies usually small. Whether acupuncture improves the underlying autoimmune disease has not been demonstrated.
For certain symptomatic relief (for example pain) acupuncture can sometimes be part of total care, but never instead of standard treatment.
Herbal-derived multi-target therapies
ExperimentaliOngoing in study setting, outcome still unknown
Recent research attempts to map molecular circuits in SLE (for example the interferon signature and immune cell balance) and searches for herbal-derived substances that can intervene at multiple points simultaneously. This is theoretically interesting research, but still completely in the laboratory. No plant or extract has been clinically tested so far.
What you need to know before trying anything
- **Tell your healthcare provider everything:** herbs, supplements and alternative treatments can interfere with your regular medications (corticosteroids, immunosuppressants) or damage your kidneys.
- **No replacement:** alternative treatment can never replace standard medications. SLE can cause severely damaged organs without proper treatment.
- **Safety first:** many "natural" substances are not safer than medicines – they are simply less well researched.
- **Unlikely promises:** be careful with practices or products that promise to "cure SLE". They don't.
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_This information never replaces a doctor's judgment. Always discuss your situation with your own healthcare provider._