Chinese meds for MG
 

I have read that Astralgalus root, Reisi Mushrooms and Huperzine A have been used for centuries in China and Europe to treat a variety of diseases including MG. There are several medical papers about them. I have taken the mushroom extract for about a week and seem to feel stronger. Huperzine A is used as a substitute for Mestinon because it also inhibits Acetylcholinerase and has no side effects like diarrhea and water retention.

There are some side effects with Astagalus but I have talked to patients on other support groups and they say that they no longer take Predinisone or any other drugs.

What do you think? Can you please check in your data base?
Thanks, Fandangoman

I can't relate to those specific supps you're taking, fandango man, but I have been taking many vitamins, and minerals (manganese, vit. d, b, c, etc., etc.), for the past three years - plus changed my diet - in an effort to heal my adrenals and thyroid. I have Hashimoto's thyroiditis, which is also an autoimmune disease, as well as MG. I think my body is stronger because of this regimen, and when MG hit me one year ago last summer (with slurring speech, difficulty swallowing, double vision, weakness in my arms), I was able to fend it off. I have been in remission for months now.

I'm not on any pharmaceuticals.

I saw the neurologist Thursday and he said it's remarkable that I'm in remission, that he doesn't see many patients like me, but if I should experience a return of symptoms down-the-line, to come see him and he would prescribe some medication. I tried to tell him of my diet, etc., but he didn't want to hear about it. Alas.

You're definitely going against the current, Fandangoman, but trust your gut and go with what works for you. And keep reading, reading, reading.

Ask you Neuro
 

Finuch, why don't you ask your neuro bout the chinese herbs I my post. I am asking mine next week. Does he have MyChartwhere you can send him the question?

Huperzine A
 

I just bought "Huperzine A" ($18) today. I will let you all know if I see any difference in my fatigue and mental factor. Stress is really taking me down and wasting my voice so I am hoping for a positve responce. I have not been perscribed anything yet as my next appointment is 30 days out so I am being pro active.

I'd like to add a caution here. While alternative meds are quite useful, that does not mean they can't be harmful.

The strength of Huperzine A is not closely regulated. You can still have an overdose of acetylcholine, resulting in a cholinergic crisis. So please proceed cautiously. Also, inform your doctors of what herbs or supplements you're taking.

It's also good to try only one at a time, so that you know which one is making you better—or worse.

Annie