Chronic fatigue syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by extreme fatigue, neurocognitive impairment, muscle, and joint pain, headaches, lack of quality sleep, sore throat, gastrointestinal disorders, low blood pressure, increased infection rate due to suppressed immunity, allergic reactions, anxiety, and enlarged lymph nodes. There are various treatment options available for chronic fatigue syndrome among them being herbal remedies that have been proven effective in alleviating symptoms associated with the disorder.
The various herbal remedies for chronic fatigue syndrome include;
Valerian herb
This is a root herb from valerian plant that is used to treat sleep disorders in chronic fatigue syndrome which when taken at least an hour just before bedtime it increases the activity of the GABA neurotransmitters of the brain resulting in increased serotonin production which facilitates quality sleep, reduced anxiety, and body refreshment. However, if taken for more than two months, it is associated with some side effects such as headache, restlessness, stomach upset and hangovers.
Siberian Ginseng
This is a herb rich in antioxidants which when consumed increases energy production within the body, boost immunity, increase concentration and reduce anxiety associated with chronic fatigue syndrome. However, Siberian Ginseng is known to interact with other drugs such as aspirin thus increase the risks of bleeding. It can also interact with immunosuppressant, cancer and diabetes drugs and thus not recommended for patients taking these drugs.
Licorice herb extract
When consumed, licorice helps combat fatigue and low blood pressure associated with chronic fatigue syndrome by increasing energy production and sodium levels in the body respectively. It can also help reduce anxiety by increasing the production of corticosteroids within the body.
Ginkgo
This is a herb rich in antioxidants which once consumed reduces the formation of free radicals within muscles and joints as a result of oxidative stress. This helps reduce muscle and joint pain associated with the disease. Ginkgo is also known to increase blood supply to the brain thus enhancing concentration.
Alfalfa
This is a herbal remedy for patients with chronic fatigue syndrome that helps in boosting energy production by enhancing appetite and proper digestion thus reducing fatigue.it can also help in correcting hormonal imbalance with reduced anxiety.
St. John’s Wort
This is an herb effective for treating anxiety and the lack of quality sleep in chronic fatigue syndrome. However, it is associated with some side effects such as drug interactions, skin rash, increased skin sensitivity, digestive problems, and headaches.
Because of some of the side effects they present, it is important to discuss with Home Doctors Melbourne on how to take them and the best herbal remedies for chronic fatigue syndrome.