As I learned more and more about EB, and realized that there are no therapies available and that the best advice given to us is to use Polysporin and Vaseline daily (yuck!), I started to do some research of my own.

I have used herbal supplements for over 14 years for my own health concerns with amazing results. After the first four years, I found myself working in the field of naturopathic remedies. With the help of many including nurses, nutritionists, and medical doctors, I started to look into various supplements for Tatum. First, though, I educated myself on what causes EB and what and how many systems in the body it affects. Here is what I've discovered, but do not try supplements on your own. Always consult a naturopathic doctor first. None of the products I mention are paid-for endorsements.

Nutritional supplements
I give Tatum various supplements that help her with many areas of her health: constipation, tissue healing, pain, tissue growth, and nourishment. She take LGlutamine (an amino acid that naturally occurs in the body), which is great for constipation, tissue healing, bowel healing, brain functions, and so much more. LGlutamine is popular with Crohn's and Colitis patients because it helps replenish the bowel's mucosal lining, making LGlutamine right up our alley. Tatum has been using LGlutamine for four years now - and it has done wonders for her. This supplement is available at Herbal One, where I work. In fact, Herbal One has been generously donating LGlutamine to Tatum since she started taking it! It comes as a powder that you add water to, and it tastes great! Tatum calls it her fizzy drink (because it fizzes).

Check back every month for more natural ideas!

Natalie Blackwell
Tatum's mom