Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is characterized fatigue, mental as well as physical that is chronically present for about 6 months or more.
It may follow an illness (which is why it is also known as post-viral fatigue syndrome) or may otherwise manifest itself along with other symptoms such as weakness, poor concentration, hypersensitivity, digestive disturbances, orthostatic intolerance, poor immunity, awakening tiredness from a full night’s sleep and cardiac/respiratory problems.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can considerably hamper quality of life and full recovery is not common, however it is possible to control symptoms using a number of alternative and/or complementary treatments:
Ginseng
Siberian Ginseng is thought to improve conditions relating to the immune system and increase count of T-lymphocytes, which are found to be low in people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Ginseng is also thought to enhance the immune response of people who are HIV positive.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants can help sufferers feel more energy by aiding the absorption of iron, metabolism of cells etc and can also help wounds heal faster. Vitamins A, C and E, selenium, beta carotene are also seen to help with CFS.
Ayurveda
The traditional Indian medicine system of Ayurveda can help to improve digestion and rid the body of toxins. This healing method depends upon the individuals’ own constitution or personality type, and formulation having constituents such as ashwagandha, amla, bala, triphala, and lomatium in different proportions may be prescribed.
Chinese Traditional Medicine
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) and Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) are thought to be helpful as treatment since they have natural antiviral, anti oxidant, anti inflammatory and anti bacterial properties.
Other herbal supplements
St John’s Wort is known to be useful in controlling certain symptoms such as depression, anxiety and sleeplessness among sufferers. Energy levels and appetite are also seen to increase, while inflammation is controlled.
Valerian is also seen to be a very effective natural sleep aid for CFS sufferers, without the harmful side effects of pharmaceutical sleep aids.
Licorice is also thought to improve levels of cortisol in the body that can offer an energy boost to CFS sufferers. Caution should be exercised with this supplement however if one is seen to suffer from hypertension, heart or liver disease.
Aromatherapy for CFS
Essential Oils are thought to offer redress for many of the symptoms of chronic fatigue. They can make a person feel revitalized and reenergized, help in pain management and foster feelings of positivity.
