Fatigue, or a lack of vitality, is one of the most common complaints among people today. The body normally recovers from physical fatigue with sufficient rest. Fatigue that is not related to physical exertion is often caused by dietary deficiencies or abuse of caffeine or other stimulant drugs. Or, it may be a symptom of an underlying health problem such as anemia or hypothyroidism. Also, emotional stress saps energy. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause is essential for successfully treating fatigue. Chronic fatigue syndrome is an increasingly common illness characterized by extreme exhaustion, recurrent sore throats and respiratory infections, low grade fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle and joint pains, intestinal discomfort, sleep disturbances, irritability and depression, and difficulty in concentrating. Although a definite cause for the syndrome has not been identified, a weakened immune system and impaired adrenal function are underlying factors. Chronic fatigue can persist for years and requires a comprehensive approach that includes sufficient rest and relaxation, gentle aerobic exercise, and diet and supplements to strengthen immune function and the adrenal glands. Chiropractic Care Nutrition and Supplements Herbal Remedies Homeopathic Remedies Essential Oils Chiropractic Care  coming soon BACK TO MENU Nutrition and Supplements Fatigue is a common symptom among people who are deficient in iron, potassium, B vitamins, or zinc. A balanced, whole foods diet and an "insurance level" daily vitamin and mineral supplement can often provide immediate benefits. (Take supplemental iron only if recommended by your health care practitioner.) Reducing exposure to drugs, pesticides, and other chemicals is essential. Eat frequent small meals of fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains, raw nuts and seeds, and lean proteins. Avoid all stimulants such as caffeine, alcohol, and sugar because they deplete energy and stress the adrenal glands. The following supplements can help restore vitality: High-potency daily multiple vitamin and mineral supplement B complex supplement, 100 mg daily vitamin C, 2-5 grams daily or to bowel tolerance In cases of chronic fatigue, add: acidophilus, 1/2 teaspoon of powder or two capsules daily: to increase "friendly" bacteria in the intestines and improve nutrient absorption thymus gland extract, one to two tablets two times daily: to improve functioning of the immune system shitake, reishi, and maitake mushrooms, one to two capsules two times daily: potent immune system enhancers BACK TO MENU Herbal Remedies astragalus, 1/2 teaspoon of tincture or two capsules three times daily: as a tonic to strengthen the immune system Siberian ginseng (eleuthero), 1/2 teaspoon of tincture two to three times daily: to strengthen the adrenal glands and increase stress resistance ginseng (Pannax spp.), 1/2 teaspoon of tincture, 1 cup of tea, or two capsules two to three times daily: to increase energy oats (Avena sativa), 1/2-1 teaspoon of tincture three times a day: to relieve exhaustion and depression; look for preparations that contain oat seed along with the straw In addition, the following herbs are helpful for chronic fatigue: goldenseal, 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of tincture or 250-500 mg in capsules three times daily: to stimulate white blood cell function. (Do not take goldenseal during pregnancy.) echinacea, 1/2 teaspoon of tincture or 500-1,000 mg freeze-dried in capsules three times daily, take in cycles of four days on and four days off. to enhance immune function BACK TO MENU Homeopathic Remedies Chronic fatigue is a complex problem and homeopathic remedies should be prescribed by a health practitioner. Possible remedies for fatigue include: Arsenicum: for severe weakness and exhaustion, anxiety and restlessness, with symptoms worse at night Gelsemium: for mental and physical weakness, accompanied by feelings of tiredness and heaviness Also available are combination remedy formulas that are prepared with some or all of the above single remedies. BACK TO MENU Essential Oils Methods for using essential oils for combating fatigue include massage, baths, and inhalations. Use any of the following: basil: nervine, restorative, tonic rosemary: stimulant, tonic spearmint: stimulant, nervine PAGE TOP Powered by ProfessionalPlanets.com™ Copyright 1999 © ProfessionalPlanets.com™ All rights reserved. Terms of Use