1. Introduction
A 48-year-old woman, had been living with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus since 2019. Despite initial treatments at various hospitals using medications such as Wysolone and HCQS, her symptoms persisted. In 2020, she sought care at SLNS Hospital, where a multidisciplinary team implemented a holistic treatment plan combining modern medicine and naturopathic therapies. After four years of consistent care, Shakuntala has achieved remarkable progress, culminating in the tapering of all medications. Today, she proudly declared “Non-SLE,” underscoring the success of this integrative approach.
2.Patient Information
Shakuntala, a 48-year-old woman, has been struggling with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus for five years. Her symptoms began in 2019 and she first experienced joint pain in her fingers. This pain was soon accompanied by a burning sensation in her palms and progressively worsened, affecting her shoulders and knees.
In the same year, she sought medical attention at JAYARAM HOSPITAL in NASHIK, where an ANA test confirmed the diagnosis of SLE. Initially, she was prescribed WYSOLONE 20 MG, but her condition did not improve.
In 2020, she consulted OMKAR HOSPITAL, where she received HCQS 200 mg in addition to WYSOLONE 20 mg. Unfortunately, these treatments did not alleviate her symptoms. Subsequently, she went to MSR HOSPITAL, there they referred her to visit SLNS HOSPITAL for further care. Despite these efforts, Shakuntala continued to struggle with her symptoms and ultimately came to our hospital for help.
At our hospital, we have assembled a multidisciplinary team focused on managing Shakuntala’s SLE. After starting treatment, initially she experienced some improvement. Our approach includes developing a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to her specific needs. We aim to address her symptoms effectively and improve her overall quality of life by utilizing the latest medical treatments and therapies
After four transformative years of naturopathic therapeutics, the SLNS Hospital team is thrilled to announce that we’ve successfully tapered all her medications. Today, we celebrate a remarkable milestone—she is officially non-SLE! This victory is a testament to the power of holistic healing and our dedicated medical team.
3.MEDICATION HISTORY:
| S.No | Present medication | Medication (After Treatment) | Mechanism of the drug |
| 1 | PREDNISOLONE (1-0-1 ½) | Tapered | It binds to the glucocorticoid receptor inhibiting proinflammatory signals and promoting anti-inflammatory signals. |
| 2 | HYDROXYCHLOROQUININE SULPHATE 200 mg (1-0-1) | Tapered | Inhibits protein synthesis in susceptible organisms by inhibiting DNA and RNA polymerase. It also inhibits inflammatory mediators such as IL -1 TNF alpha, prostaglandins. |
Through the incorporation of naturopathic therapeutics, both Prednisolone (initially 1-0-1½) and Hydroxychloroquine Sulphate (200 mg, 1-0-1) were successfully tapered. Prednisolone, which binds to glucocorticoid receptors to inhibit proinflammatory signals and enhance anti-inflammatory responses. Similarly, Hydroxychloroquine, known for inhibiting protein synthesis and reducing inflammation by targeting IL-1, TNF alpha, and prostaglandins, was also tapered. The progression achieved through naturopathy played a significant role in reducing dependency on these medications, highlighting the effectiveness of holistic healing in managing inflammation and autoimmune conditions.
4. Naturopathic and Lifestyle Interventions:
Dietary Changes: Anti-inflammatory foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains); avoidance of processed foods and refined sugars.
Herbal Supplements: Turmeric, ginger, and ashwagandha for inflammation and immune support.
Physical Therapies: Yoga and pranayama for stress reduction and flexibility improvement.
Detox Therapies: Herbal teas, fasting, and sauna sessions to remove toxins.
Stress Management: Yoga, pranayama, meditation, and proper sleep hygiene to reduce autoimmune flare-ups.
Hydration: To support kidney health and detoxification.
5. Results and Follow-Up:
| S.No | PARAMETERS | BEFORE TREATMENT | AFTER TREATMENT |
| 1 | LIPOPROTEIN A | 182 | 73.16 |
| 2 | VITAMIN D | 15.16 | 76.5 |
| 3 | LYMPHOCYTE AC | 4.66 | 2.26 |
| 4 | HBA1C | 7.3 | 5.8 |
| 5 | TESTOSTERONE | <7 | 22.2 |
| 6 | VITAMIN B-12 | 319 | 447 |
| 7 | INSULIN FASTING | 59.2 | 2.97 |
| 8 | TRIGLYCERIDES | 320 | 91 |
| 9 | GGT | 51 | 14.64 |
| 10 | UREA | 55.17 | 21.1 |
| 11 | ANA | 4+ | negative |
After undergoing a tailored treatment plan, significant improvements were observed across various health parameters, bringing numerous benefits to overall well-being. Lipoprotein A levels reduced from 182 to 73.16, lowering the risk of cardiovascular issues. Vitamin D levels increased substantially from 15.16 to 76.5, enhancing bone health and immune function. Lymphocyte AC improved from 4.66 to 2.26, indicating better immune system regulation. HbA1c dropped from 7.3 to 5.8, reflecting improved blood sugar control and reduced diabetes risk. Testosterone levels rose from <7 to 22.2, supporting hormonal balance and energy levels. Vitamin B-12 increased from 319 to 447, aiding nerve health and red blood cell production. Fasting Insulin levels dramatically decreased from 59.2 to 2.97, improving insulin sensitivity and metabolic function. Triglycerides were reduced from 320 to 91, lowering cardiovascular risk. GGT levels dropped from 51 to 14.64, signaling better liver function. Urea decreased from 55.17 to 21.1, reflecting improved kidney function. Lastly, ANA levels were reduced from 4+ strong positive to negative, suggesting a decline in autoimmune activity. These improvements collectively highlight the success of the treatment in promoting a healthier, more balanced state.
6. Discussion:
Shakuntala’s journey highlights the transformative potential of a multidisciplinary approach to autoimmune conditions like SLE. Combining modern medicine with naturopathic therapies allowed her to overcome persistent symptoms, achieve medication independence, and reclaim her health. Her case serves as a testament to the efficacy of integrative care in managing chronic autoimmune disorders, offering hope for similar cases worldwide.
7. Conclusion:
Through the comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach at SLNS Hospital, her symptoms were systematically addressed. Her joint pain gradually subsided, allowing her to regain mobility and perform daily tasks with ease. The burning sensation in her palms was alleviated, providing her much-needed relief from constant discomfort. Chronic inflammation, which had been a hallmark of her condition, was successfully reduced through a combination of naturopathic therapies and lifestyle modifications. After four transformative years of treatment, Shakuntala achieved an extraordinary outcome—she was officially declared non-SLE.