Penn Herb Wellness Guide
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Fish Oil | Up to 20 grams fish oil per day after consultation with a doctor |  [3 stars] Supplementing with fish oil may improve symptoms and decrease disease activity.
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DHEA | Take under medical supervision: 50 to 200 mg daily |  [2 stars] Treatment with DHEA may improve symptoms and decrease disease activity.
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Pine Bark Extract (Pycnogenol) | 60 to 120 mg per day | [2 stars] In a small, controlled study, Pycnogenolseemed to help decreasesystemic lupus erythematosus activity, measured with a combination of signs, symptoms, and blood measurements.
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Tripterygium wilfordii | Take under medical supervision: an herbal extract equivalent to 30 to 45 grams daily | [2 stars] This Chinese herb may relieve symptoms such as malaise and joint pain.
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Vitamin D | Refer to label instructions | [2 stars] In a double-blind trial, people who took vitamin D daily experienced a decrease in disease activity and flare-ups. |
Astragalus | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] Though a safe amount has not been established, one preliminary trial found that this herb could decrease overactive immune function in people with this disease.
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N-Acetyl Cysteine | 600 mg three times per day | [1 star] In acase report, a woman with kidney disease due to SLE (lupus nephritis) may have had an improvement in her kidney function due to treatment with N-acetylcysteine (NAC).
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.