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by Steve Ottariano
Author, Medicinal Herbal Therapy

DHEA and recommendations for its use for MS.

DHEA (dehydroepianrosterone) is a steroid hormone that is secreted by the adrenal glands. It is sometimes called a "precursor" hormone because it is used by the body to produce other hormones, estrogen and testosterone just to name two.

As we age, the levels of DHEA decline. It has shown to be of some value in some autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and MS. There seems to be an increase in energy and well being.

Unfortunately there are no studies on the long-term effects of chronic use of DHEA. Two of its more prominent side effects have been the development of mild acne and hirsutism (unwanted hair growth, especially in women). I usually suggest that people obtain a blood test to see if the really need to be on it.

For information on saliva and blood testing for DHEA levels, please click here.