Autoimmune disease refers to illnesses that occur when body tissues are attacked by its own immune system. Common autoimmune diseases include theumatoid arthritis, lupus, Sjogren's syndrome, scleroderma, vasculitis, thrombocytopenic purpura, Graves' disease, inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis and other hard-to-cure diseases.
Western medicines for autoimmune diseases include corticosteroids and immunosuppresants. While controlling symptoms quickly,long-term use increases the risk of infection and reduced adrenal function, and can affect the bone marrow. As patients become aware of these side effects, they seek treatment with Chinese herbal medicinals.