Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disorder that affects the central nervous system. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks myelin, the protective covering around nerve fibers. Damage to myelin disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Common symptoms include muscle weakness—often in the arms and legs—tingling or burning feelings, numbness, long-term pain, problems with balance and coordination, fatigue, vision disturbances, and bladder control difficulties. Some individuals with MS may also experience depression or problems with memory and clear thinking.

MS is the leading disabling neurological condition among young adults. It most often appears between the ages of 20 and 40 and is more common in women than in men. Approximately 400,000 people in the United States and about 2.5 million people worldwide are affected. The most frequently diagnosed type is relapsing-remitting MS, marked by periods when symptoms worsen followed by times of partial or complete recovery.

Although there is currently no cure for MS, standard medical treatments can help manage symptoms, reduce the frequency and severity of relapses, and slow disease progression. Many individuals also explore complementary health approaches, including specialized diets—such as low–saturated fat plans that emphasize polyunsaturated fats like those found in fish—and the use of dietary supplements.

Bottom Line

Certain complementary practices, such as yoga, may offer relief for some MS symptoms. However, no dietary supplement has been proven to effectively treat MS.

• Psychological and Physical Approaches: Yoga may reduce fatigue and improve mood, but research has not shown meaningful benefits for mobility or cognitive function. Some small studies have explored acupuncture for MS symptoms, though positive findings have been questioned due to study design limitations. Reflexology, which involves applying pressure to specific areas of the feet, may lessen burning or tingling sensations, but larger and better-designed studies are needed to confirm these effects.

• Practicing yoga may help with fatigue and mood, but not with mobility or thinking ability.

• Research on acupuncture for MS has produced limited and methodologically weak evidence.

• Reflexology may reduce burning or prickling sensations, though stronger evidence is required.

• Dietary Supplements: Studies have not shown fish oil supplements to be beneficial for MS. Ginkgo has not demonstrated improvements in cognitive performance in people with MS. A large five-year study suggests that low vitamin D levels in the blood may be linked to increased disease activity and progression. Still, more research is necessary to determine whether vitamin D supplementation is helpful.

• Fish oil supplements have not been proven effective for MS.

• Ginkgo has not been shown to improve thinking or memory in MS.

• Low vitamin D levels may be associated with greater disease activity, but the benefits of supplementation remain uncertain.

• Other Complementary Health Approaches: Studies of pulsed magnetic therapy, which uses devices that create magnetic fields through electrical currents, have produced mixed findings for MS-related fatigue. Bee venom therapy, involving intentional bee stings, does not appear to improve symptoms or slow disease progression. Compounds in marijuana known as cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, may help relieve muscle spasticity or pain in some people with MS. Certain prescription cannabinoid mouth sprays are approved in some countries for MS-related muscle stiffness. However, it is unclear whether smoking marijuana provides benefit, and there is not enough large-scale research to determine whether the whole plant’s advantages outweigh its risks.

• Pulsed magnetic therapy has shown inconsistent results for fatigue.

• Bee venom therapy has not demonstrated benefits for MS symptoms or progression.

• Cannabinoids may ease spasticity or pain, but evidence regarding smoked marijuana is insufficient.

Safety

• Yoga and reflexology are generally regarded as safe for most individuals.

• Acupuncture is considered safe when performed by a properly trained practitioner.

• Bee venom therapy carries a risk of severe allergic reactions, including potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis.

• Prescription cannabinoid medications, when used under medical supervision, are usually well tolerated. Possible side effects include dizziness, anxiety, and short- or long-term memory and concentration problems. Some individuals may also experience nausea, vomiting, constipation, or dry mouth.

• Marijuana can lead to dependence.

• Regular marijuana smoking may cause respiratory problems similar to those seen in tobacco smokers, such as chronic cough, excess mucus, and increased risk of lung infections, and it may also affect heart health.

• Keep in mind that “natural” does not automatically mean “safe.” Dietary supplements can cause side effects or interact with medications and other supplements. High doses of certain supplements, including vitamin D, may be harmful or even dangerous.

For More Information

NCCIH Clearinghouse

The NCCIH Clearinghouse offers information about complementary and integrative health approaches, including publications and searches of Federal scientific and medical literature databases. The Clearinghouse does not provide medical advice, treatment recommendations, or referrals.

Toll-free in the United States: 1-888-644-6226

Telecommunications relay service (TRS): 7-1-1

Website: nccih.nih.gov

Email: [email protected]

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)

NINDS supports and conducts research on the brain and nervous system and on treatments for neurological disorders, including MS.

Toll-free in the United States: 1-800-352-9424

Website: ninds.nih.gov

Know the Science

NCCIH and the National Institutes of Health provide educational resources to help the public understand scientific research and health information. These materials include interactive tools, videos, and explanations of clinical studies to support informed health decisions.

PubMed®

PubMed is a database of scientific and medical journal citations and summaries maintained by the National Library of Medicine. It includes research on multiple sclerosis and complementary health approaches.

Website: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

MedlinePlus

MedlinePlus offers reliable health information from the National Institutes of Health and other trusted organizations to help answer medical questions.

Website: medlineplus.gov

This material is in the public domain and may be freely reproduced. It is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your health care provider regarding treatment decisions. Mention of specific products or therapies does not constitute endorsement.