There are many herbal remedies to help ease the pain and discomfort of an immune system disorder.

Caused by either abnormally low activity or over-activity in the immune system, immune disorders include common diseases such as IBD and Graves’ Disease and affect millions of Americans every year.

Autoimmune diseases are particularly painful disorders caused by a malfunctioning immune system.

A healthy immune system’s main function is to detect infectious invaders and organisms in the body. After this detection system is triggered, the body creates antibodies to fend off the unwanted outbreak. 

Autoimmune disease is when the immune system over-extends itself, responding as if there’s an infection when there is no threat. The body needlessly produces antibodies that–instead of fighting infection–begin to attack its own tissues. Common autoimmune disorders include arthritis, diabetes, and Crohn’s disease.

Luckily, there are natural ways to alleviate some of the pain and discomfort of an autoimmune disorder.

Here are 4 recommendations to relieve the physical and mental strains of living with an autoimmune disorder:

King of Bitters

An herb commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, King of Bitters has been known to treat foreign diseases and respiratory tract infections. Containing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, king of bitters helps relieve joint pain and attain pain relief. 

Cayenne Pepper

Aside from being a great way to spice up a dish, these peppers are able to reduce inflammation and pain. Cayenne Peppers are often an ingredient found in medical creams used for stiff, painful, and swollen joints. 

Chamomile

Chamomile is an herb often consumed by drinking tea. Aside from relieving joint pain and digestive issues, chamomile also helps curb the effects of insomnia. Those suffering from the pains of an autoimmune disease often find difficulty in falling asleep, making chamomile a great herb to relieve stress and promote sleep.

Pau d’Arco

The bark of this South American-native tree helps defend against bacteria, fungus, and inflammatory-causing agents. The bark has been used to aid a number of infectious diseases. Thankfully, you don’t need the physical tree bark to reap the benefits of Pau d’Arco. Pau d’Arco can now be found in distilled pill and tincture forms.