Can Herbal Supplements Help with MS? A Look at the Evidence

Introduction

Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) often means seeking ways to reduce inflammation, calm symptoms, and boost resilience—naturally. Alongside traditional treatments like disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), many people turn to herbal supplements in hopes of gaining extra support. But can herbs truly make a difference for MS? And more importantly, are they safe?

Let’s explore the latest evidence around herbal remedies for MS—from ancient botanicals like turmeric and ashwagandha to more niche options like lion’s mane and ginkgo biloba.

Looking for supplements for people with MS? Click here.

🧪 What Are Herbal Supplements?

Herbal supplements are plant-based extracts or compounds used for their medicinal properties. They come in the form of capsules, teas, powders, or tinctures, and are often used to support immune function, energy, mood, or inflammation.

Unlike pharmaceuticals, herbs aren’t always standardized, and their effects can vary depending on the formulation and dose. That’s why understanding the evidence and safety profile is essential—especially if you’re living with MS.

🧭 MS, Inflammation, and the Promise of Herbs

MS is a neuroinflammatory autoimmune condition that damages the central nervous system. Most MS therapies work by slowing immune system activity, modulating inflammation, and protecting myelin.

Herbs with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, or neuroprotective properties may offer additional symptom relief, particularly when it comes to:

Fatigue
Cognitive issues ("brain fog")
Stress and anxiety
Spasticity
Sleep issues

But not all herbs are safe—some stimulate the immune system and may interfere with DMTs or worsen the disease process.

✅ Promising Herbal Supplements for MS

Let’s look at several herbs with scientific or traditional use for MS-related symptoms.

1. Curcumin (Turmeric Extract)

Category: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
Mechanism: Inhibits NF-κB signaling, reduces oxidative stress, protects neurons.

Curcumin is the main active compound in turmeric and one of the most studied herbs in relation to inflammation. It’s been shown in animal studies to protect against demyelination and reduce immune system overactivity.

🧠 MS Relevance: May reduce flare-up risk and calm systemic inflammation.
💊 Form: Use with black pepper (piperine) or liposomal delivery for better absorption.
⚠️ Interactions: Mild blood thinning—caution if on anticoagulants.

Research: Animal studies suggest curcumin may reduce demyelination and oxidative stress [1].

Looking for supplements for people with MS? Click here.

2. Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus)

Category: Nerve growth, cognitive support
Mechanism: Stimulates Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and supports brain plasticity.

Lion’s mane has gained attention for its potential to promote nerve regeneration and improve cognitive function—an appealing benefit for MS-related brain fog or cognitive decline.

🧠 MS Relevance: May support remyelination and brain clarity.
💊 Form: Look for high-quality dual extracts (fruiting body only).
⚠️ Safety: Generally safe—avoid if allergic to mushrooms.

Research: Some human studies show cognitive benefit; remyelination effects in animals [2].

3. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Category: Adaptogen, stress reducer
Mechanism: Lowers cortisol, enhances GABA, supports mitochondrial health.

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that may help MS patients cope with fatigue, stress, and sleep issues by regulating cortisol and calming the nervous system.

🧠 MS Relevance: May reduce anxiety, improve energy and sleep.
💊 Form: Root extract (KSM-66 or Sensoril are well-studied).
⚠️ Interactions: May interact with sedatives or thyroid medications.

Research: Known to reduce anxiety and stress in human trials [3].

4. Ginkgo Biloba

Category: Cognitive enhancer, circulatory support
Mechanism: Increases blood flow to the brain, antioxidant effects.

Ginkgo may help with cognitive symptoms and fatigue by improving oxygen delivery and protecting against oxidative stress.

🧠 MS Relevance: May support attention, memory, and mental fatigue.
💊 Form: Standardized extract (EGb 761).
⚠️ Interactions: May interact with blood thinners and seizure medications.

Research: A 2012 study found no significant fatigue improvement in MS, but individual responses vary [4].

5. Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)

Category: Circulatory, cognitive, skin/nervous system support
Mechanism: Enhances microcirculation, supports collagen and nerve regeneration.

Gotu kola is traditionally used for wound healing and brain support. Some practitioners use it to aid nerve regeneration.

🧠 MS Relevance: Potential support for nerve repair and circulation.
💊 Form: Tea, capsule, or tincture.
⚠️ Interactions: Avoid with sedatives or liver issues.

⚠️ Herbal Supplements to Avoid in MS

Some herbs can stimulate the immune system—a red flag for people with MS who are trying to suppress overactivity.

❌ Echinacea

Often used for colds, echinacea boosts immune function and may trigger MS flare-ups.

❌ Astragalus

Another immune stimulant that may counteract DMT effects.

❌ St. John’s Wort

Used for depression but interacts with many medications and can increase photosensitivity.

❌ High-Dose Ginseng

While ginseng is sometimes used for fatigue, high doses may overstimulate or interfere with DMTs.

Looking for supplements for people with MS? Click here.

🔄 Can You Take Herbs with MS Medications?

In many cases, yes—but with caution. Some herbs have mild interactions with liver enzymes (e.g., CYP450) that metabolize medications like fingolimod, dimethyl fumarate, or cladribine.

Tips for Safe Use:

✅ Check with your neurologist before adding any herbs.

✅ Start one supplement at a time to track effects.

✅ Use high-quality, third-party tested herbal products.

✅ Monitor for allergic reactions, fatigue changes, or symptom flare-ups.

✅ Don’t rely on herbs alone to treat MS—use as part of a holistic approach.

🧠 Can Herbs Help With Remyelination?

No herb is a guaranteed remyelination agent—but some, like lion’s mane and gotu kola, are being studied for their nerve-regenerative effects. These herbs may support the internal environment necessary for healing, especially when combined with a nutrient-rich diet, adequate vitamin D, and healthy lifestyle practices.

🧾 Summary Table: Herbal Supplements & MS

Herb	Primary Benefit	Safe with MS Meds?	Notes
Curcumin	Inflammation, antioxidants	✅ Likely Safe	Boost absorption with black pepper
Lion’s Mane	Nerve health, cognition	✅ Likely Safe	Dual extract preferred
Ashwagandha	Stress, sleep, fatigue	✅ With Caution	May affect thyroid and sedative meds
Ginkgo Biloba	Cognition, fatigue	⚠️ Caution	May interact with anticoagulants
Gotu Kola	Nerve regeneration	✅ With Caution	Liver and sedation concerns
Echinacea	Immune stimulation	❌ Avoid	May provoke MS immune activity
Astragalus	Immune stimulation	❌ Avoid	May counteract immune suppression
St. John’s Wort	Depression	❌ Avoid	Major drug interactions

🙋FAQs

Can I take herbs with interferon beta or ocrelizumab?

Yes, but consult your neurologist. Avoid immune stimulants and always watch for interactions.

What’s the safest herb for MS?

Curcumin and lion’s mane are generally considered safe and promising for MS symptom support.

Do herbal supplements cure MS?

No. MS is a chronic condition. Herbs can support symptoms or general well-being—but they are not a replacement for DMTs.

🧩 Final Thoughts

Herbal supplements can be part of a comprehensive MS wellness plan—but only when used wisely and under professional supervision. The right herbs can calm inflammation, reduce stress, improve sleep, and even support nerve health.

Stick with evidence-informed options like curcumin, lion’s mane, and ashwagandha, and steer clear of anything that could overstimulate the immune system. As always, work closely with your healthcare team before making changes to your routine.

Looking for supplements for people with MS? Click here.

📚 References

Dolati, S. et al. Curcumin and autoimmune diseases: A comprehensive review. Journal of Cellular Physiology, 2018.

Zhang, Z. et al. Protective effects of Hericium erinaceus mycelium on neurodegeneration. International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, 2016.

Chandrasekhar, K. et al. A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of Ashwagandha root extract. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, 2012.

Lovera JF, et al. Ginkgo biloba for the improvement of cognitive function in MS: a randomized trial. Neurology, 2012.