Living with scleroderma can be a daunting journey. This chronic autoimmune condition, which causes hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues, can lead to a wide range of symptoms, from skin discoloration and stiffness to digestive and respiratory complications. While there is no known cure, the search for relief often drives people beyond traditional medications toward more holistic options. If you’ve been wondering what else you can do to manage symptoms naturally, the best herbal treatment for scleroderma that you may not have tried yet.
Why Go Herbal?
Herbal medicine has been used for centuries to support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote overall wellness. For people with autoimmune diseases like scleroderma, where the body attacks itself, herbs can offer a gentler, complementary approach to healing. The key lies in targeting inflammation, boosting circulation, supporting detoxification, and enhancing immune function—all areas where herbal remedies excel.
Before incorporating any new herbal supplement for scleroderma into your routine, it's crucial to consult your healthcare provider, especially if you’re on prescribed medications. That said, many people with scleroderma have found significant improvements by integrating herbal remedies into their treatment regimen.
Let’s explore the best herbal remedies that could change your life—some you might already know, and others you haven’t tried yet.
1. Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica)
The Skin Rejuvenator
Gotu kola is often overlooked, but this ancient Ayurvedic herb has powerful properties that benefit scleroderma patients. Known for enhancing circulation, reducing scar tissue, and supporting skin elasticity, Gotu kola is a fantastic herbal treatment for scleroderma, especially for those dealing with tight, hardened skin.
How It Helps:
· Promotes collagen production
· Reduces fibrosis and scarring
· Boosts circulation in affected areas
How to Use:
· Capsules or tinctures (300–500 mg daily)
· Topical creams for localized skin issues
2. Turmeric (Curcuma Longa)
The Anti-Inflammatory Powerhouse
Turmeric is a star when it comes to fighting inflammation, thanks to its active compound curcumin. In autoimmune conditions like scleroderma, chronic inflammation contributes to tissue damage. Turmeric works as a natural COX-2 inhibitor, reducing inflammatory pathways.
How It Helps:
· Reduces systemic inflammation
· Supports liver detox (important for autoimmune disease)
· May improve skin tone and texture
How to Use:
· 500–1000 mg of curcumin daily
· Combine with black pepper (piperine) for better absorption
This common herbal supplement for scleroderma is readily available in powder, capsule, or liquid extract form.
3. Boswellia Serrata
Nature’s Joint and Tissue Protector
Often referred to as Indian frankincense, Boswellia has shown promise in managing autoimmune diseases. It blocks leukotrienes—compounds that cause inflammation and tissue breakdown.
How It Helps:
· Reduces inflammation in joints and skin
· Helps with pain management
· Supports connective tissue repair
How to Use:
· Capsules (300–500 mg 2–3x daily)
· Combine with turmeric for a synergistic effect
This is one of the more potent but underutilized herbal supplements for scleroderma that may offer real relief.
4. Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera)
The Stress-Relieving Adaptogen
Ashwagandha helps regulate cortisol, the body’s stress hormone. For those with scleroderma, managing stress is crucial because stress can trigger immune flare-ups. This adaptogenic herb supports the endocrine and immune systems simultaneously.
How It Helps:
· Lowers inflammation and stress
· Enhances immune modulation
· Improves energy and resilience
How to Use:
· Capsules or powder (500–1000 mg daily)
· Best taken in the evening or with meals
5. Burdock Root (Arctium Lappa)
The Blood Cleanser
A staple in traditional herbal medicine, burdock root is known for detoxifying the blood and supporting liver function. Toxins can exacerbate autoimmune flare-ups, and detox herbs like burdock can provide foundational support.
How It Helps:
· Purifies blood and lymphatic system
· Supports liver detox
· Reduces skin eruptions and inflammation
How to Use:
· Decoction (tea), tincture, or capsules
· Take daily for long-term support
This gentle yet effective herbal treatment for scleroderma supports inner cleansing and outer healing.
6. Milk Thistle (Silybum Marianum)
The Liver’s Best Friend
Liver health is often compromised in autoimmune diseases, which is why supporting detoxification pathways is crucial. Milk thistle contains silymarin, a compound that regenerates liver cells and protects against toxins.
How It Helps:
· Enhances liver detox
· Reduces oxidative stress
· Supports digestion (often affected in scleroderma)
How to Use:
· Standardized extract (150–300 mg daily)
· Capsules or tincture form
7. Cat’s Claw (Uncaria Tomentosa)
The Immune System Modulator
Native to the Amazon rainforest, Cat’s Claw is an anti-inflammatory herb that may help regulate an overactive immune system without suppressing it completely.
How It Helps:
· Balances immune response
· Reduces joint and tissue inflammation
· May improve circulation
How to Use:
· Capsules or tincture (250–500 mg daily)
· Often combined with other immune-supportive herbs
This is a lesser-known herbal supplement for scleroderma with promising immune-balancing effects.
8. Ginger (Zingiber Officinale)
The Circulation Booster
Ginger improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and supports digestion. Since many people with scleroderma deal with gastrointestinal issues and poor peripheral blood flow, ginger is a must-have.
How It Helps:
· Improves nutrient absorption
· Enhances blood flow to extremities
· Fights inflammation naturally
How to Use:
· Fresh ginger tea
· Powdered capsules (500–1000 mg daily)
· Add to meals daily
9. Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma Lucidum)
The Immunity Enhancer
Reishi is a medicinal mushroom that acts as an adaptogen and immune modulator. It can help calm an overactive immune system while boosting resistance to stress and illness.
How It Helps:
· Balances immune activity
· Reduces chronic inflammation
· Supports overall vitality
How to Use:
· Capsule or tincture (500–1500 mg daily)
· Best taken in the morning or before sleep
This mushroom isn't just a trend—it’s one of the most powerful herbal supplements for scleroderma.
10. Schisandra Berry (Schisandra Chinensis)
The Five-Flavor Tonic
Schisandra is an adaptogenic berry that supports the liver, improves skin clarity, and helps manage stress. It’s been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries to tonify all major organ systems.
How It Helps:
· Enhances skin resilience
· Reduces fatigue and inflammation
· Supports liver and adrenal function
How to Use:
· Powdered extract or tincture
· 500–1500 mg per day
Honorable Mentions: Herbal Blends & Topical Remedies
Sometimes, the best herbal treatment for scleroderma isn’t a single herb but a combination. Here are some powerful blends and applications worth exploring:
Herbal Blends:
· Autoimmune Support Blends with turmeric, reishi, and boswellia
· Lymphatic Detox Teas with cleavers, red clover, and burdock
· Skin Healing Oils with calendula, comfrey, and St. John’s Wort
Topical Applications:
· Calendula Cream: For inflammation and irritation
· Castor Oil Packs: For tissue softening and detox
· Gotu Kola Salve: For scarring and tight skin
These remedies work synergistically with internal herbs and can provide localized relief.
Lifestyle Tips to Maximize Herbal Effectiveness
To get the most out of your herbal supplement for scleroderma, consider integrating these healthy habits:
1. Stay Hydrated
Herbs need a hydrated body to be effectively processed and circulated.
2. Eat Clean
A plant-rich, anti-inflammatory diet amplifies herbal effectiveness.
3. Get Gentle Exercise
Movement enhances circulation and detox, essential for scleroderma patients.
4. Practice Mind-Body Techniques
Yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can reduce stress-induced flare-ups.
Final Thoughts: The Natural Way Forward
Herbal remedies may not be a miracle cure for scleroderma, but they offer a deeply nourishing path to symptom relief and improved quality of life. When used consistently and in combination with a healthy lifestyle, they can be powerful allies in your healing journey.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with scleroderma for years, these under-the-radar remedies could be the missing piece you’ve been looking for.
If you’re ready to explore a herbal treatment for scleroderma, start small, go slow, and listen to your body. And remember—nature has been healing long before modern medicine.