Herbal Remedies for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

If you have experienced unexplained exhaustion that has lasted for more than six months which has been accompanied by several other symptoms such as sore throat, muscle and joint aches, lack of energy, short-term memory loss and severe headache, then there's a high chance you are suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome.

As yet, doctors have been unable to determine the exact cause of chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS, as it is sometimes called, but most researchers and doctors believe that a number of factors help trigger this debilitating disorder.

Plain 'ol immune deficiency is at the top of this list.

One major problem of isolating the cause, or causes, of chronic fatigue syndrome is that the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome are also classic symptoms of other viral infections such as flu. Viral infections have no known cure yet, and there is also no known cure for CFS.

However, although the cause and the cure are both unknown, there are many ways to treat the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and help alleviate the discomfort and illnesses that the patient experiences.

Starting with the concept that chronic fatigue syndrome is probably caused by viral infections, among other things, it is obviously important to keep the immune system strong.

Herbal remedies for strengthening the immune system are becoming more popular as people, and researchers alike, discover the wondrous effects of natural herbs in promoting health and fighting different types of viruses.

Specifically for combating chronic fatigue syndrome, the following herbal treatments are recommended:

Ginkgo Biloba

This herb, long a staple of traditional Chinese medicine, is known to improve circulation and brain function. Ginkgo biloba supplements can help with memory and cognitive impairments that are common symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome.

Korean Ginseng

Another herb long used in Oriental medicine to boost energy (and also as an aphrodisiac), Ginseng also strengthens the immune system and helps fight viral infections. It also helps relieve many of the harmful effects of stress.

It should be used with caution, however, as this herb is quite powerful. If you have high blood pressure or heart disease, you probably should not use ginseng. Consult an herbalist or doctor of naturopathy first if you are sensitive to the effects of caffeine and similar stimulants.

Echinacea

This powerful herb, related to the daisy, prevents pathogens such as bacteria and viruses from entering the body and causing several disorders. Basically, Echinacea protects cells from infections. Recommended dosage is about fifteen to twenty drops in liquid form three times a day for two days. This is approximately 300 – 325 mg taken three times a day.

Astragalus

Another effective herb used to strengthen the immune system, astragalus encourages the production of white blood cells that help fight off and get rid of pathogens that have already entered the body. Astragalus seems to be effective in treating flu and head colds but should not be administered if the individual is also suffering from a fever.

The recommened dosage of Astragalus is 150-250 mg taken three to four times daily.

Licorice Root

This herb has long been recognized for its efficacy in relieving cough and as an expectorant. But, even many who use herbal remedies do not realize that licorice is also effective in purging out toxins from the body. Licorice root also supports the endocrine system.

However, as with many another herbal remedy, it is not advisable to take this herb for more than seven days in a row. Another warning is that, if you have high blood pressure, you should not take licorice root. If do you plan on using licorice for extended periods, make sure you also increase your intake of foods rich in potassium.

Also, as with other medications, it is important to use a proper dosage when using these herbal remedies to achieve the best effects. It is also best to consult a doctor and a herbalist to help you identify which herbs work best for your chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms, and how much dosage you should take.

Vitamins and Minerals

Although not herbal remedies for chronic fatigue syndrome, many vitamins and minerals are also good for strengthening the immune system. Among the vitamins are vitamin A, vitamins C, E, B6, B12 and folic acid. Minerals which contribute to a stronger immune system are copper, selenium, and zinc. It is easy to get these supplements in the form of a good daily multivitamin.