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Natural treatments and home remedies for chronic fatigue syndrome

This is an illness that is characterized by extreme fatigue which lasts for more than 6 months. This type of fatigue cannot be explained by an underlying medical condition. Chronic fatigue syndrome can result in strained relationships with friends and family, especially if it remains untreated or undiagnosed. Chronic fatigue syndrome can often start suddenly with flu-like symptoms. The most common symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome are digestive disorders like IBS; night sweats; chills; headaches; enlarged lymph nodes; loss of memory; poor concentration; muscle pain; joint pain that moves from one spot to another. Also, people who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome can experience depression; anxiety; panic attacks; mood swings, and significant alterations in levels of irritability. The cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is not known. Some contributing factors for chronic fatigue syndrome are nutritional deficiencies; chronic low blood pressure; viral infections; poor immune system response and hormonal imbalances. Also, chronic fatigue syndrome can be linked to food allergies; food sensitivities; Celiac disease, and oxidative stress. You need to talk with your doctor if you suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome before you start using some of the below-mentioned home remedies.

20 Home remedies for chronic fatigue syndrome

Potassium

This mineral is responsible for the proper electrolyte balance in the body. You should include foods that are rich in potassium in your diet, such as mushrooms, dried apricots, acorn squash, bananas, white beans, kefir and yogurt, coconut water, sweet potatoes, spinach, and avocadoes. The most common symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome which include symptoms of potassium deficiency are muscle cramps, irritability, and fatigue [1]. You should eat a diet rich in potassium to get relief from these symptoms, particularly when foods that cause allergies have been removed.

Ginseng

This is an herb that has been used in Asia for centuries to increase energy and combat fatigue. It is considered a tonic herb that can help with fatigue, especially if it is mild. There was one study with 155 participants in which was found that ginseng is one of the most helpful treatments for chronic fatigue syndrome and 56% of these people have noticed positive results [2]. Talk with your doctor about the recommended dosage for your condition.

Gingko Biloba

This natural cure can help to improve alertness and concentration by boosting the blood flow to the brain [3]. It is an antioxidant that can help to protect the muscles from oxidative damage which could lead to muscle pain in people who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome. You need to talk with your doctor about the recommended dosage for you.

Rest

This means that you need to sleep more. You should dedicate one day per week to sleep more when you do not have commitments or responsibilities. You should truly commit to a day full of rest. This will give your mind and body a much-needed respite which will help you to fight against exhaustion, anxiety, and stress. It is very important to not overtax yourself if you have a particularly difficult day. Regular exercise will support wellness and it can help to diminish the stress. Those people who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome need to exercise at a controlled intensity. If you are doing high–intensity workouts, then they can leave you drained for several days.

Avoid stimulants

You should avoid tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine because these stimulants can cause additional restlessness at night. You should exercise at least 4 hours before you go to bed because the exercise can act as a stimulant and it can create restless sleep.

Licorice root

It is recommended to take 1000 mg on a daily basis of licorice root because this can help to increase cortisol levels [4]. Also, this home remedy can increase blood pressure so you need to talk with your doctor if you have decided to use it as your natural treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome. You should not use this home remedy for more than three to four weeks in a row.

Coenzyme Q10

Those people who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome may not produce enough ATP which is the energy currency of the cells of the body. Coenzyme Q10 can help your body to produce more ATP. This natural cure is also an antioxidant so it can help with muscle pain and boost immunity.

Garlic

Doctors are recommending eating two cloves of raw garlic on daily basis as a natural treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome.

Stay hydrated

It is very important to stay hydrated if you suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome. If you are not drinking enough water, then it can cause or contribute to fatigue.

Stress–reduction exercises

You should do breathing exercises on daily basis and you should practice a relaxation technique such as meditation or yoga on a regular basis [5].

chronic fatigue home treatment

Alfalfa

There are some studies which are shown that this home remedy can improve digestion and increase appetite which will provide the body with energy and increased functionality to fight against the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. Also, it can improve cognitive ability and reduce stress and anxiety. You should know that the hormonal production can be compromised by chronic fatigue syndrome and the hormonal boost which comes from the alfalfa can counter that and it can keep the body’s system functioning normally.

Ashwagandha

It is also known as Indian ginseng. This is an effective adrenal gland tonic and anxiety support herb [6]. You should take 250 mg of this herb once per day. There are some studies in which is said that people who were taking ashwagandha on daily basis have noticed improvements in their energy levels. They have increased energy levels by 79%.

Olive leaf extract

If you have a viral infection and you suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome, then it is recommended to take 500 mg of this natural cure, three times per day.

Exercise

It has been shown that exercise therapy can help to improve depression, mental clarity, and fatigue in people who have chronic fatigue syndrome [5]. It is recommended to do aerobic activities at the clinic, two times per month in a combination with home exercises for five to fifteen minutes in duration, 5 days per week.

Oregano oil

It is recommended to take 500 mg of oregano oil, three to four times per day or take the recommended dosage from your doctor.

Valerian

This natural cure can give you a good night’s sleep which can also help you in the fight against chronic fatigue syndrome [7]. It is recommended to take valerian at night for a period of two months as a natural treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome.

Essential fatty acids

It is known that people who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome have low levels of essential fatty acids which are very important for reducing inflammation and boosting immunity. There was one study in which people were taking essential fatty acids and they noticed fewer symptoms after eight to twelve weeks. You can take fish oil or evening primrose oil because they have essential fatty acids.

Magnesium

There are some studies which are shown that people who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome have low magnesium levels which lead to a low red blood cell count. In this study, people were taking magnesium supplements and they have noticed improved energy levels, less pain, and a more balanced emotional state. At the end of this 6 – week study all patients who were taking magnesium, had their red cell magnesium levels returned to normal [8]. If you suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome, then you should include foods rich in magnesium, such as bananas, dark chocolate, figs, avocados, black beans, almonds, kefir, yogurt, pumpkin seeds, chard, and spinach. These foods can help you to overcome chronic fatigue which is one of the symptoms of magnesium deficiency. Also, these foods can regulate blood pressure, support healthy blood sugar levels, and healthy nerve function.

Astragalus

This home remedy boosts visibility and it provides bursts of energy that can counter the general weakness of the muscles and body if you suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome. Also, it has boosting properties that can prevent viral and bacterial infections. This natural cure shortens the recovery period after surgery or illness which can prevent weakness and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Oats

These grains are energy sources and they will give you the necessary nutrition. They can help to regulate the cardiovascular system and ease heart palpitations. Also, they can counter insomnia by guaranteeing a good night’s sleep. This natural cure is good food for the brain which means that it can stimulate the mental acuity and clear the mind of any fogginess brought on by excessive exhaustion.

References:

[1] Lennon-Edwards S, Allman BR, Schellhardt TA, et al. Lower potassium intake is associated with increased wave reflection in young healthy adults. Nutrition Journal. 2014;13(39).

[2] Bach HV, Kim J, Myung SK, Cho YA. Efficacy of ginseng supplements on fatigue and physical performance: a meta-analysis. Journal of Korean Medical Science. 2016;31(12):1879-86.

[3] Mashayekh A, Pham DL, Yousem DM, et al. Effects of Ginkgo biloba on cerebral blood flow assessed by quantitative MR perfusion imaging: a pilot study. Neuroradiology. 2011;53(3):185-91.

[4] Christiansen H, Oades RD, Psychogiou L, et al. Does the cortisol response to stress mediate the link between expressed emotion and oppositional behavior in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity-Disorder (ADHD)? Behavioral and Brain Functions. 2010;6:45.

[5] Woodyard C. Exploring the therapeutic effects of yoga and its ability to increase quality of life. International Journal of Yoga. 2011;4(2):49-54.

[6] Singh N, Bhalla M, de Jager P, Gilca M. An overview on ashwagandha: A Rasayana (rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines: AJTCAM. 2011;8(Suppl5):208-13.

[7] Bent S, Padula A, Moore D, et al. Valerian for sleep: A systematic review and meta-analysis. The American Journal of Medicine. 2006;119(12):1005-12.

[8] Maric D, Brkic S, Mikic AN, et al. Multivitamin mineral supplementation in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. Medical Science Monitor. 2014;20:47-53.

Vijila
Vijila
Dr. Emil Sarsath (aka) Vijila, a licensed naturopathic doctor (BSMS) who always ensures his patients receive compassionate, and individualized care. He has extensive experience in primary care, digestive health, mental health, nervous system disorder and more.Area of Expertise – Naturopathic Medicine, Whole Foods-based Nutrition, Siddha, Panchakarma.She is always available through [email protected]

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