Multiple Sclerosis and Complementary Health Approaches

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A variety of complementary health approaches have been studied to see if they can help people manage multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms.

  • Certain substances from cannabis (marijuana) may help to reduce spasticity or pain in people with MS, but no cannabis-derived medications have been approved for this purpose in the United States. It’s unknown whether smoking marijuana is helpful for MS; there isn’t enough research to show whether its potential benefits outweigh its risks.

  • Fish oil and ginkgo supplements have been studied for MS but have not been shown to be helpful.

  • Low blood levels of vitamin D may be a risk factor for long-term disease activity and progression. However, more studies need to be done to determine whether taking vitamin D supplements is beneficial.

  • Practicing yoga may help with fatigue and mood in people with MS, but yoga hasn’t been shown to improve mobility or thinking ability.

 

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