Herbal Treatment for Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy

Abstract

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) is a medical term used for a group of genetic disorders which are characterized by weakness and wasting of the muscles in the arms and legs. The condition particularly affects the shoulder girdle (the bony structure surrounding the shoulder area) and pelvic girdle (the bony structure which surrounds the hips). The treatment of LGMD includes therapies for managing the symptoms of the disorder. Planet Ayurveda herbal manufacturing company offers some beneficial herbal products for managing the symptoms of LGMD in a natural manner.

Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy: Overview

LGMD refers to a group of at least 18 rare, diverse and progressive neuromuscular disorders which cause atrophy (wasting) and weakness of the voluntary muscles in the limb-girdle — that is, the bony structure that surrounds the joints of the shoulders and hips.

The muscle weakness and wasting in LGMD affects the proximal muscles (the muscles closest to the center of the body). The muscles which are affected in LGMD include the muscles of the shoulders, upper arms, thighs, and pelvic area. Typically, in most cases, muscle weakness first appears in the shoulders. Due to muscle wasting, people affected by LGMD undergo noticeable changes in their posture and walking gait, as well as in the appearance of their shoulders, arms, and back.

In most LGMD patients, muscle weakness starts between childhood and young adulthood. Since LGMD is categorized as a progressive, muscle weakness and wasting gradually becomes worse over a period of time. Moreover, it also slowly spreads from the limb-girdle region to affect other muscles of the body. Progressive muscle weakness and wasting can adversely impact the daily activities of the patients, and may eventually lead to the requirement of a wheelchair. In addition, the condition can also lead to other potential complications, including contractures of the joints (joint stiffness), abnormal heart rhythms, and respiratory impairment.

LGMD is known by some other names, such as Proximal muscular dystrophy and Pelvofemoral muscular dystrophy.

Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy: Causes

The main cause underlying the group of diverse genetic disorders categorized under LGMD is mutations in a number of different genes – including the LMNA gene, the CAV3 gene, the CAPN3 gene, and the DYSF gene – which pass on from one parent or both the parents to the affected child. There can be various forms or subtypes of LGMD, depending on the specific gene mutations which cause the disorder.

The defective (non-working) genes which generally cause LGMD are the ones that provide instructions for production of proteins required for the maintenance and repair of muscles. The gene mutations lead to an abnormal function of muscle proteins, thereby resulting in muscle weakness.

Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy: Symptoms

Some of the common symptoms of LGMD are:

• Pelvic muscle weakness
• Shoulder muscle weakness
• Difficulty in climbing stairs
• Difficulty in lifting certain objects
• Unusual or waddle-like gait
• Pain in the lower back
• Palpitations
• Passing-out episodes
• Loss of muscle mass (causing thinning of some body parts)
• Difficulty in getting up from a chair without the use of the arms.

Furthermore, as the disorder progresses, the symptoms can also include large and muscular-looking calves (pseudohypertrophy), joint stiffness, weakness of facial muscles, and weakness in the muscles of the arms, hands, legs, and feet.

Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy: Treatment

There is no treatment for reversing the muscle weakness and wasting caused by LGMD. Hence, the treatment methods mostly include supportive therapies which can reduce potential complications. The treatments include physical therapy, mobility aids, respiratory care, heart monitoring, weight control, and (in some cases) surgery for treating any bone or joint problems.

Planet Ayurveda offers the following herbal products for natural management of LGMD symptoms:

1. Ashwagandha Capsules

For preparing these capsules, standardized extract of ‘Ashwagandha’ herb (Withania somnifera) is used. The herb is widely known in Ayurveda because of its anti-inflammatory properties and immense medicinal value.

The use of these capsules is beneficial in managing LGMD because of the ability of Ashwagandha herb to strengthen the muscles, support nerve functions, manage inflammation, boost mental health, enhance heart health, reduce metabolic imbalances, reduce hypertension, and balance Vata and Pitta doshas.

Dosage: 2 capsules, twice a day after meals with plain water.

2. Musli Strength

These capsules are prepared from standardized extracts of two extremely beneficial herbs — Safed Musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum) and Gokshura (Tribulus terrestri). The capsules are considered an excellent Ayurvedic formulation for ensuring an overall healthy life.

The symptoms of LGMD can be effectively managed with the help of these capsules because the herbal ingredients can improve blood circulation, treat muscle weakness, improve nervous disorders, strengthen the reproductive organs, and boost the immune system.

Dosage: 1-2 capsules, once or twice a day after meals with plain water.

3. Shatavari Capsules

Standardized extract of ‘Shatavari’ herb (Asparagus racemosus) is used for preparing these capsules. The herb is known for its antioxidant properties and its ability to enhance the overall strength of the body.

The use of Shatavari capsules can benefit LGMD patients because Shatavari herb has the ability to manage muscle weakness, boost energy levels, maintain a healthy immune system, support the reproductive system, and treat anemia, ovarian cysts, and uterine fibroids.

Dosage: 1-2 capsules, twice a day after meals with plain water.

4. Boswellia Curcumin

The preparation of these capsules involves two potent anti-inflammatory herbal ingredients — Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin (Curcuma longa). The Shallaki herb has the ability to fight inflammation and relieve pain, while Curcumin is an excellent antioxidant.

The use of these capsules is extremely beneficial for people affected by LGMD because of the combined ability of both herbal ingredients to support healthy functioning of joints, support the immune system, increase blood supply to joint tissue, and maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.

Dosage: 2 capsules, twice a day after meals with plain water.

5. Brahmi Chyawanprash

Brahmi Chyawanprash is a jam-like Ayurvedic product prepared from a combination of some extremely potent herbs — including Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Amla (Emblica officinalis), and several other herbs — which can synergistically improve overall health and well-being.

The use of Brahmi Chyawanprash is beneficial for managing the symptoms of LGMD because the herbal ingredients can rejuvenate the body, support a healthy brain, enhance the nervous system, maintain the coordination of bodily movements, and manage degenerative changes undergone by the body.

Dosage: 1 teaspoonful daily after breakfast.

Conclusion

Planet Ayurveda’s herbal products can be beneficial in managing Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) in a safe and natural manner because the products are prepared from 100% pure herbs. The products do not contain any chemicals, artificial colors, preservatives, fillers, or binders. However, it is advised that patients suffering from LGMD should use the products in consultation with an experienced Ayurveda practitioner.