Chronic Fatigue and Herbs

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Chronic Fatigue and Herbs

JoAnn Guest

Feb 15, 2004 01:05 PST

 

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a condition that is debilitating with a

variety of symptoms that resemble those of flu or other viral

infections.

 

This is why it is mistaken many times for other disorders. Often

mistaken by some to be a result of infection with the Epstein-Barr

virus, which is a member of the herpes family and the same virus

that causes mononucleosis. There can be many ways to find temporary

relief.

 

Medical specialists consider exercise and stress reduction as

important as nutritional therapy. Chronic fatigue syndrome is not a

lifelong sickness. Many people have recovered well after being sick.

 

Exercise,stress reduction and good nutrition all have amazing

effects and will help with the ups and downs, with the downs

becoming less severe and less frequent.

 

Herbs such as Garlic, raw or in tincture form, should be taken twice

daily. Take Echinacea or Astragalus root for its antiviral and

immunity-enhancing properties. Two doses daily.

 

Newer research suggests that CFS may be partially due to low adrenal

function resulting from different stressors such as mental stress,

physical stress, and even viral illness impacting the normal

communication between the hypothalamus,

pituitary gland, and the adrenal glands.

 

Licorice root is known to stimulate the adrenal glands and to block

the breakdown of active cortisol in the body. It takes 2.5 grams of

licorice root daily to make a significant improvement in CFS.

While there have been no large clinical trials to test licorice in

patients with CFS, it may be worth a trial of six to eight weeks

using 2–3 grams of licorice root daily.

Adaptogenic herbs may also be useful for CFS patients—they not only

have an immunomodulating effect but also help support the normal

function of the hypothalamic-

pituitary-adrenal axis, the hormonal stress system of the body.

 

These herbs are useful follow-ups to the six to eight weeks of

licorice root and may be used for long-term support of adrenal

function in persons with CFS.

 

Andrew Pacholyk LMT, MT-BC, CA

Peacefulmind.com

Alternative medicine and therapies

for healing mind, body & spirit!

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Natural Remedies for Mononucleosis & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

JoAnn Guest

Feb 13, 2004 19:56 PST

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Researchers are only beginning to target possible causes of

Mononucelosis and CFS. Many suspect that it is caused by thyroid,

adrenal, liver, or immune system dysfunction. Another theory is that

CFS and mono is caused by a virus similar to the herpes virus, i.e.

Epstein-Barr virus.

 

 

Diet can play an important role in CFS and Mono treatment. Patients

often discover that by modifying their diet, they can greatly

improve their symptoms. By choosing organically grown nutrient-rich

foods which are easily digested, patients can begin to take control.

 

Good dietary choices include:

Organic vegetables, fruits, Legumes, Whole grains, Seeds, Raw Nuts

and cold-water Fish such as Alaskan Salmon. Patients may also find

that certain foods intensify their

symptoms. Foods that require more energy to digest may increase

fatigue in CFS and mono patients.

 

Some foods that CFS patients may want to avoid include:

Dairy products, Red meat and poultry, Alcohol, Refined Sugar,

Processed foods containing hydrogenated fats, Caffeinated beverages

including regular and diet sodas, coffee (both

caffeinated and decaf, and chocolate.

 

The most debilitating symptom of CFS is a complete lack of energy.

Some herbs used for energy enhancement may include:

 

Ginger

 

Ginkgo

 

Licorice Root

 

Dandelion Root

 

Alfalfa

 

Nettle

 

Organic Blackstrap Molasses

 

In a study at the University of California Department of Medicine,

Echinacea and Astragalus extracts enhanced cellular immune function

in both healthy individuals and patients with depressed immune

systems.

 

Other herbs that are recognized for immune system

enhancement include:

 

Reishi and Shitake Mushrooms

Garlic

Leeks, Onions, &

Scallions

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IMPORTANT SUPPLEMENTS:

 

Dietary supplements can provide great relief to individuals

suffering from CFS and Mononucleosis. In a study of fibromyalgia CFS

and Mono, patients reported a significant improvement in symptoms

after taking nutritional supplements. Experts recommend the

following nutritional supplements for these

patients.

 

Vitamin C is an important antioxidant known to support immune

function. Under stressful conditions, the body needs additional

vitamin C to help the immune system function normally.

Vitamin C - promotes healthy adrenal function, which is especially

helpful for women who suffer from stress. In one study of 411

couples,

researchers found a clear correlation between fatigue and low levels

of vitamin C.

 

Magnesium- is important for energy production, protein formation,

and cellular replication. A majority of Americans are deficient in

this mineral.

 

Iron deficiency can lead to chronic fatigue and anemia.

Spinach, kale, dandelion, beets and asparagus are important food

sources.

 

Vitamin B-complex- consists of 11 B vitamins, including folic acid,

vitamin B6, and vitamin B12.

Vitamin B6 deficiency has been implicated in fatigue and anemia.

Vitamin B12 deficiency is implicated in elevated homocysteine

levels.

 

High levels of homocysteine are believed to contribute to heart

disease, the number one killer in the U.S. Elevated levels of

homocysteine are characteristic of CFS and Mono

patients. Researchers have also discovered that CFS patients have

lower levels of B vitamins than healthy patients.

 

Vitamin E--an important antioxidant, protects cells against damage

from toxins. It can enhance imune function and has antihistamine

properties.

 

Potassium-- deficiency has been linked to fatigue and muscle

weakness. Potassium may help restore energy in some CFS patients.

 

Pantothenic Acid helps our body make its own thyroid glandular.

Blackstrap molasses, Brewers Yeast, coconut milk and pineapple are

rich in pantothenic acid.

 

Stress Reduction:

Most experts agree that stress plays a part in CFS.

Meditation induces relaxation. Try thinking affirmative thoughts.

Visualization may be combined with calming music to reduce stress

Focus on positive imagery.

Yoga can improve circulation and may increase energy

Massage can also improve circulation and reduce stress as well.