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[N72]Natural Remedies For Fatigue

by Dr Eony, Dr

Misunderstood and ignored by traditional medical practitioners, adrenal fatigue was not an accepted term until Dr.Wilson wrote the book, Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st Century Stress Syndrome, to bring this syndrome to the notice of the medical community.

Although traditional medical practitioners do not recognize it as a valid syndrome caused by chronic stress, herbal and alternative practitioners have a number of remedies to treat a range of non-specific symptoms and address the root cause of stress by helping our bodies adapt to stressful situations better.

Many of these herbs are adaptogens herbs, used to regulate endocrine hormones and the immune system and buffer the effects of stress by helping the body adapt to it better. They can down-regulate an over-functioning system or boost and stimulate an under-functioning one to help the body reach a balance. Here are some natural remedies commonly used to treat the symptoms of adrenal fatigue syndrome:

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

This herb is native to North America and known for its calming effects on the nervous and muscular-skeletal system. It was traditionally used by North American Indians as therapy for nervous tension, anxiety, convulsions, and adrenal fatigue symptoms. The flavonoids and amino acids in skullcap are thought to be responsible for its relaxant action.

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)

Also know as Golden Root or Roseroot, Rhodiola grows in cold regions of the world and has been used for centuries to cope with the cold climate and stressful life. It is an adaptogen and has been shown to boost physical and mental performance, and diminish fatigue.

Rhodiola is used to improve mood, alleviate depression. It works by regulating serotonin and dopamine levels and has an effect on the mood-regulating chemicals known as endorphins. In laboratory animals, it was shown to effectively prevent changes caused by stress such as those that affect appetite, physical activity, weight gain and the estrus cycle.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has been used for thousands of years by Ayurvedic practitioners in India. The root contains flavonoids and withanolides that help regulate physiological function in the hormonal and nervous system.

Ashwagandha can alleviate the effects of stress, boost memory and cognitive function as these are often impaired during adrenal fatigue and burnout. It has been used to combat fatigue, improve stamina, and enhance immune response and adrenal function.

Green tea

Green tea contains a substance known as L-theanine (gamma-ethylamino-L-glutamic acid). This unique, neurologically-active amino acid is a relaxant and mood enhancer. It acts by creating a sense of relaxation created by the direct stimulation of alpha brain waves-a state achieved in meditation. It is also used by the body to manufacture the neurotransmitter, gamma amino butyric acid (GABA), that influences the levels of dopamine and serotonin.

Most of us have experienced fatigue, especially after performing a very difficult and strenuous task, regardless of the physical condition of our bodies. Such fatigue is normal and only occurs when we have over exerted ourselves. However, sufferers of chronic fatigue immunodeficiency syndrome, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome, experience long-time - usually six months or more - debilitating fatigue.

CFIDS, short for chronic fatigue immunodeficiency syndrome, is believed to be triggered or caused by viral infection, such as flu. Thus, suffers of CFIDS experience slight fever, sore throat and headache, severe tiredness, nutrition deficiency and muscle and joint aches. Some experts believe that CFIDS is linked to the herpes-like EBV, or Epstein-Barr virus.

Unlike bacteria, viruses cannot be cured by anti-biotic or other drugs. In fact, there is no known cure for viruses. Thus, people suffering from viral infections should boost their immune system in order to defeat the virus, which is self-limiting. Since CFIDS is linked to viral infections, one of the best ways to conquer the condition, or at least diminish the symptoms, is through natural remedies.

Ideal Diet For Chronic Fatigue Immunodeficiency Syndrome Sufferers

1. Eat more vegetables and fruits

Most, if not all illnesses, can be managed through eating nutritious and balance diet. Thus, you need to increase your intake of green leafy vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Fruits and vegetables are also good sources of vitamins and minerals that you badly need. It is also advisable that you minimize intake of sugar and processed food, which is usually high in fat and salt.

2. Choose high-quality protein

Fish, nuts, beans and soy products are good sources of quality protein, particularly because such food is low in saturated fat. Instead of red meat, you should try eating more chicken and fish, which can also contain omega 3, 6 and 9.

3. Drink plenty of water

The number of glasses of water our body need is about 8 to 10. Furthermore, choose water that is clean, such as spring or distilled water.

4. Increase intake of garlic and onion

You need to raise your intake of onion and garlic because these two are known for their virus-inhibiting abilities. You can take them raw or cooked. If you don't like the taste of garlic and onion, you can just buy supplements that contain adequate amount of garlic and onion.

Exercise And Other Physical Activities

People who are suffering from CFIDS tire easily and are lethargic. Even if you have chronic fatigue immunodeficiency, however, it does not mean that all you have to do is rest and sleep all day. You need to combat your fatigue and lethargy by slowly adding exercises and physical activities to your everyday routine.

Adding at least 15-30 minutes of mild exercise per day, plus another 30-minute vigorous exercise or activity, such as aerobics, swimming, tennis, and brisk walking, could help make your heart stronger and function better.
Another thing you need to address, if you have CFIDS, is stress. If your stress level were high, other symptoms of your condition, such as insomnia, depression and general feeling of malaise, would more likely be intensified. Conquer your stress through stretching, relaxation exercises and meditation. You can also see a counselor to help you better manage stress.

Common Herbs Used To Treat Chronic Fatigue

Most of the medicines and drugs that we use come from herbs and plants. Hence, you should not be afraid to take herbal medicine and supplements. However, it would be advisable if you consult your physician first before taking anything. They need know what types and of herbs and dosage you are taking.

The following are suggested herbs, together with their dosage, that will help manage chronic fatigue:

Echinacea Root

This herb is known to boost the immune system. You can take this in tablet or capsule form, or as a tincture or tea. You need to drink Echinacea tea or tablets (two at a time) at least three times a day.

Ginseng Root

Ginseng is widely believed to increase energy. In fact, this is used in oriental countries as an aphrodisiac. A single dose, which should be not be taken together with vitamin C, twice a day is good for people who are suffering from chronic fatigue. For best results, you should take ginseng capsule or tablet on an empty stomach.

Licorice, Golden Seal and Poke Root can also be taken to help improve your condition.

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Both Dr Eony & Lee Dobbins are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.

Dr Eony has sinced written about articles on various topics from Skin Care, Panic Attacks and Alternative Medicine. and