In addition to medical treatments, many people with HS also seek complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to help manage their symptoms. This may include diet and lifestyle changes such as the Autoimmune Paleo (AIP) Diet or eliminating trigger foods.
Supplements and natural home remedies, like tea tree oil, honey and turmeric, can complement traditional treatment for HS. However, these therapies have yet to be proven effective stand-alone HS treatments.
Massage
Massages are a wonderful way to reduce stress, promote circulation and bring nutrients into the cells. Massage also reduces inflammation and increases flexibility in muscles and joints. You can do it on your whole body or a specific area like your feet. This is a good option for those with trouble sleeping, as it relaxes the mind and body.
Hidradenitis suppurativa is an inflammatory disease that causes painful abscesses on skin folds such as armpits or groins. The cysts can be filled up with pus that produces an unpleasant odor. Cysts can rupture, leaving painful scars or a wound that does not heal. Tunnel-like tracts may form beneath the skin to connect the cysts.
The traditional treatment for HS focuses on treating the symptoms through medication such as steroids and antibiotics. These drugs, however, can cause serious side effects and do not address the underlying causes of the disease. A holistic approach to your health is more effective in promoting remission.
Acupuncture
Hidradenitis suppurative (HS) is an inflammatory condition that produces painful pus-filled lesions, often in areas where skin touches the skin, such as the armpit, groin and anogenital region. These recurrent, painful, draining boils can scar the skin and lead to infections. They can flare around the menstrual cycle. This chronic disease has no cure, but several treatments can help control symptoms and prevent future infections.
Naturopathic approaches can support this disorder’s underlying drivers and help reduce symptoms. These natural therapies are safe to use in conjunction with standard medical treatment, and they can be used either topically – as a poultice for the boils – or internally – in the form of herbs and supplements aimed at correcting imbalances in the body.
Acupuncture can improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, boost white blood cell activity, balance hormone levels, control blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and lessen tension and anxiety. According to certain research, it also aids in lowering the frequency of HS flares and enhancing the general quality of life.
Ayurvedic Medicine
The causes of hidradenitis suppurativa are poorly understood, but it is considered an autoimmune condition. Primary care physicians, such as those in family and internal medicine, pediatrics, or obstetrics and gynecology, frequently see patients with HS, and they may be the first medical practitioners to diagnose hidradenitis suppurativa.
The principles of global connectivity, a person’s unique constitution (Prakriti), and life energies (doshas) are all part of the holistic approach to health and wellness known as Ayurvedic practice. It promotes healthy living through self-care practices like oil pulling, incorporating seasonal foods and spices into your diet, yoga, meditation, and herbal remedies.
It also emphasizes a strong connection to nature, which can help you feel calm and grounded. This can lead to an inner experience of self-compassion and confidence that can strengthen your resilience against stress and anxiety, contributing to the development of hidradenitis suppurativa. Ayurvedic practice is available at select integrative health centers. It can be used as a complement to your regular healthcare regimen with guidance from an integrative doctor or certified Ayurvedic practitioner.
Chinese Medicine
HS can be devastating for those who suffer from it, especially because it can be difficult to find effective treatments. HS can typically worsen or recur if left untreated, leading to permanent scarring. A naturopathic approach using natural (homeopathic) herbs, detoxification procedures, and changing dietary habits can help to prevent or manage HS symptoms.
Traditional Chinese medicine is based on the understanding that disease results from imbalances in the body and mind. This differs from the Western medical model, which focuses on a linear sequence of events leading to illness.
Naturopathic modalities used in Chinese medicine for HS include herbal medicine, cupping, therapeutic massage (tuina), qi-based practices such as taichi and qigong, and dietary advice. Herbs can be applied topically as a poultice or taken internally to address the underlying drivers of HS and bring the body back into balance. A nutrient-dense diet is important as it can significantly influence the skin and gut microbiome, digestion, and immune function. Ideally, the diet should contain seven servings of vegetables per day.
Homeopathy
Homeopathy is a holistic medicine that treats the person individually and examines each disease. It uses a combination of traditional and natural solutions to help manage symptoms of hidradenitis. Tea tree oil can soothe itchy skin, and avoiding tight clothing is an important at-home solution. Having good sleep habits and reducing stress levels is also important.
Homeopathic treatment for HS involves healing the lumps, nodules and cysts with natural medicines. It also helps to stop the recurrent nature of these symptoms. It helps reduce pain, heals the ulcers and eradicates the pus discharge.
The exact cause of hidradenitis suppurativa is still unknown, but research points to an underlying problem with immune dysregulation and potential autoimmune issues. It also involves several other triggers, including hormonal and environmental factors. Talk with your doctor to explore a holistic approach to managing your hidradenitis suppurativa. They may have suggestions for practitioners in your area. It is a journey, and finding the right mix of treatments for you will take time.