herbs for a child with RA

[Guest guest]

hello all

I just thought I would like to share this with you - I was asked to

send a list of possible herbs that I might use for a 10 year old child

with RA whose parents are being told that he must go on methotrexate.

The parents have been trying to keep him off methotrexate and just on

herbs and diet, but I had only seen him for 3 weeks before the

paediatrics team stepped in so not long enough to have any real

effects. I had already been told that he couldn't have tinosporia and

gotu cola, and so I sent them this list, and this is what I got

back......

here is the information from the Pharmacy team

As there is currently no safety data of any herbal medicine in

children, the team would have to actively discourage the use of herbs

for this child.  However, this is the relevant information found on

the different supplements.

Milk Thistle: This has an effect on the immune system, according to

one report only; it has Anti-TNF activity (it has an effect on a

specific cell involved in the normal inflammatory process, which in

children with arthritis is excessive). There are no human data for

long-term safety. It is widely used to protect the liver. One study in

children being treated for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia showed some

beneficial effects on liver function.

Boswellia (known as Indian incense): This has anti-inflammatory

properties. There are no human data on safety for use beyond 12 weeks.

Commiphora (Myrrh): This has been used as an immunostimulant, but its

efficacy is unproven. If myrrh has immunostimulant properties, it

would counteract the effect of methotrexate.

Turmeric, this is a very widely used curry spice, which may have

anti-inflammatory properties. It is likely to be safe.

Filipendula (Meadowsweet): This contains salicylates and is therefore

contra-indicated in children due to the risk of them developing Reye’s

syndrome.

Betula (Birch): This has diuretic properties. The effect on excretion

of methotrexate is unknown, but in general diuretics do not increase

the toxicity of methotrexate.

Dioscoria (Wild Yam): This has oestrogenic properties (having an

action similar to that of an oestrogen) and should not be administered

to children.

Chamomile: This may also have oestrogenic effects and should not be

administered to children

Liquorice: This has anti-inflammatory effects. It can cause fluid

retention and hypertension, it may reduce testosterone levels. It

should not be administered to children in large doses.

Withania (Ashwagandha): May have immunostimulant properties and could

counteract the effect of methotrexate.

Sorry this isn’t more positive, but as I said although we like to

support parents in their choices for their child’s health needs, we

are also bound in giving advice that is supported with cold, hard

scientific proof.  I hope this information is somewhat useful, and a

way forward can be found.

I'm going to use milk thistle, liquorice, boswellia and turmeric as

they seem to have grudgingly ok'd these. I don't really think it is

worth challenging them - but chamomile - CI in children because it is

oestrogenic !!!

Just thought you might like to see it though - any other ideas about

herbs to consider would be welcomed.His digestion is already pretty

good.

all the best for Solstice, Christmas and New year

--

Herbert

Herbalist and allergy therapist

15 Queens St

Spooner Row

Norfolk NR18 9JU

01953 603056

www.christineherbert.co.uk