Adrenal
deficiency
This is a highly variable state of imbalance, and can link to multiple
systems. Generally, it is a level of reduced energy and vitality,
although at first a yin-deficient adrenal syndrome may manifest
as general excess. However, even in this case, there can be a lack
of focus and endurance, indicating an underlying deficiency.
Many individuals in today’s culture of coffee, tobacco, and
technological over stimulation can present with mild to moderate
symptoms of adrenal deficiency: tiredness, lack of focus, loss of
appetite, inability to “rise to the occasion”, inability
to cope with any stress. The pulse will usually show a marked weakness
in the adrenal areas; the tongue may be very lumpy, thickly coated,
or stripped of moss at the root.
What follow are some generalized suggestions for treating adrenal
hypofunction; these should be chosen according to the individual
symptomatology and constitution.
Treatment
Goal(s):
· Supplement reserves, encourage rest and recuperation.
Primary
Treatment:
· Nourishing bitters such as Arctium lappa (Burdock) to supplement
adrenal qi from food.
· Members of the Panax (Ginseng) genus.
· Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice), especially if there is generalized
inflammation or chronic pain.
· Withania somnifera (Ashwaghanda), especially if there is
insomnia.
· Urtica dioica (Nettles).
· Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng), especially
for sensitive constitutions.
· Smilax sarsaparilla (Sarsaparilla), especially for men.
· Medicinal mushrooms, especially if there is an autoimmune
component as well.
· Rhodiola rosea, especially in the short term for fatigue
with or without depression.
Supportive
Treatment:
· Elimination or reduction of coffee and refined sugars,
which exact a toll on the adrenal glands long-term, is important.
· Increased exercise will lead to increased energy levels.
Start slow and work up.
· Nervines may be helpful as well, especially if there is
mild depression.
· Warming digestives and carminatives, including the stimulating
Capsicum (Cayenne) genus, can relieve congestion, ease depression,
stimulate digestive function and supplement the adrenals.
