Chronic fatigue syndrome is one of the more enigmatic disorders today. Characterized by conditions of extreme exhaustion lasting for a prolonged period of time, chronic fatigue syndrome also comes with several other symptoms such as muscle and joint pains, tenderness of the lymph nodes, recurring sore throat, impaired short memory, and severe headache. The underlying causes of this debilitating disease are not yet known.
Researchers have theorized that CFS might be caused by viral infections. This is supported by the fact that CFS and symptoms of flu are quite similar. However, rest and medication can relieve flu. Unfortunately, there is no known cure yet for chronic fatigue syndrome. Treatments and medications for CFS are mostly aimed at relieving the various symptoms that accompany a CFS attack. Doctors use a combination of non-drug therapies and medications to treat the symptoms of CFS.
Many doctors advocate the use of natural and herbal remedies to treat CFS. Herbal medicines have been used for centuries to treat various diseases. An herbal regimen for chronic fatigue syndrome may include tonics to help boost the immune system, increase the body’s energy level, improve digestive efficiency and restore strength to the muscles. Foods that help the body increase its absorption of minerals are also recommended. There are also deep immune tonics that strengthen the body’s supply of bone marrow and replenish the immune reserves.
Adrenal tonics and adaptogens also help boost the adrenal glands to enhance the body’s energy level and fight off stress. Antiviral herbs can be used to combat opportunistic viral infections, especially when combined with immune and adrenal strengthening herbs. Herbs can also be used to relax the nervous system and improve sleep. Some herbs have been used for ages to soothe frazzled nerves and combat stress. Here are some herbs that can be used to treat symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome:
Dang Gui This herb is a small, aromatic, fern-leafed plant native to China and related to the parsley family is best known for its blood strengthening properties. It revitalizes the blood and is also known to boost the health of the uterus and other female generative organs. Dan Gui is used to treat anemia, irregular menstruation, and for treating the symptoms of PMS and menopause. Dang Gui can be taken in various forms: tincture, capsule, tablet, powder and bulk herb.
Gentian This is a bitter tonic that acts as a digestive stimulant. It is usually taken15-30 minutes before meals and is typically combined with other herbs. Studies have reveled that gentian has immune-strengthening properties. It is usually given to patients to help in the absorption and assimilation of nutrients, enhancement of energy levels and improvement of immune function.
Ligustrum This herb can be used as a deep immune tonic to strengthen the immune system and fight off the harmful effects of overwork and stress. It is also used to nourish the liver and the adrenal glands and as a treatment for nausea, low back pain and palpitations. Ligustrum is even used in cancer treatments because of its potency.
Siberian Ginseng This herb has immune-regulating and adaptogenic properties. This makes Siberian ginseng a good treatment for fatigue, exhaustion, immune deficiency and other stress-related disorders. As an adaptogen, Siberian ginseng helps patients adapt to stress. This herb is also helpful in treating chronic inflammatory conditions. Taking Siberian ginseng also helps increase energy levels.