Introduction:

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons, leading to muscle weakness and eventual paralysis. While modern medicine offers symptomatic relief, there is currently no cure. However, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), as documented in ‘Bencao Gangmu’ (Compendium of Materia Medica), provides herbal remedies that may help alleviate symptoms, slow down degeneration, and improve the quality of life for ALS patients. In this article, we explore the best herbs for managing ALS symptoms, their dosages, and how they work in the body.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Remedies for ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) from Bencao Gangmu

Key Herbs for Treating ALS Symptoms

Ginseng (Ren Shen – 人参)
- Dosage: 3-9 grams
- Properties: Ginseng is known for its ability to tonify the qi, improve vitality, and nourish the body’s systems. It strengthens the muscles and promotes better energy flow, making it ideal for addressing muscle weakness and fatigue in ALS patients.
- How to Use: Ginseng is typically consumed as part of a tea or decoction and can be taken daily to support energy levels and overall strength.
Rehmannia (Sheng Di Huang – 生地黄)
- Dosage: 9-30 grams
- Properties: Rehmannia is used to nourish the blood and yin, which helps to support nerve health and protect against degeneration. It is particularly effective for managing ALS symptoms related to weakness and neurological decline.
- How to Use: Rehmannia is included in decoctions and can be combined with other herbs to improve nerve function and slow down degeneration.
Astragalus (Huang Qi – 黄芪)
- Dosage: 9-15 grams
- Properties: Astragalus is a powerful herb that strengthens the immune system and promotes better circulation, which helps ALS patients by improving muscle tone and reducing fatigue.
- How to Use: Often consumed as a tea or in soups, Astragalus supports overall vitality and helps improve muscle health in those with ALS.
Polygala (Yuan Zhi – 远志)
- Dosage: 6-12 grams
- Properties: Polygala is known for its ability to open the mind and improve communication between the heart and kidneys, which is essential for managing emotional symptoms and maintaining cognitive function in ALS patients.
- How to Use: It is commonly brewed as tea or included in herbal formulas to support cognitive and emotional health.

Herbal Formula for ALS Symptom Management (Based on Bencao Gangmu)

Ingredients:

Ginseng (Ren Shen): 6 grams
Rehmannia (Sheng Di Huang): 12 grams
Astragalus (Huang Qi): 10 grams
Polygala (Yuan Zhi): 8 grams

Preparation:

Boil the herbs in 600ml of water for 20-25 minutes until the water reduces to half.
Strain the decoction and divide it into two servings.
Drink one serving in the morning and the other in the evening to help alleviate muscle weakness and support nerve health.

External Application for Muscle Support

For muscle support, create an herbal oil using Astragalus and Polygala. Heat the herbs gently in sesame oil and massage the oil into the affected muscles. This can help reduce pain, improve circulation, and promote muscle health in ALS patients.

Why TCM is Effective for ALS

Traditional Chinese Medicine takes a holistic approach to managing ALS by focusing on nourishing the body’s vital energy, supporting nerve health, and improving circulation. These herbal remedies work by addressing the root causes of weakness, degeneration, and fatigue, helping to slow the progression of the disease while improving quality of life. While ALS remains a challenging condition, TCM offers a complementary approach that can be integrated into a patient’s care plan to promote strength and vitality.

Conclusion:

The remedies found in ‘Bencao Gangmu’ offer a natural way to manage the symptoms of ALS, supporting nerve function, reducing muscle weakness, and improving overall well-being. Although ALS is a complex condition, TCM provides valuable herbal treatments that can help patients live more comfortably. For those looking to incorporate natural treatments into their care, these herbs offer a safe and effective solution.

References:

Li Shizhen. “Compendium of Materia Medica” (Bencao Gangmu), 1596.

Introduction: