Chronic
Fatigue Syndrome
A clinical
composite of symptoms that features debilitating fatigue that is
not improved by exertion and lasts at least 6 months, CFS can include
generalized inflammation and pain; cardiovascular and neurological
symptoms such as numbness in the extremities and inability to focus
and concentrate; depression and/or insomnia; digestive disturbance;
and adrenal depletion. In this sense, it is perhaps indicative of
an advanced and profound level of adrenal exhaustion. Gentle, easily
digestible and nourishing foods and much rest and recuperation feature
prominently in CFS treatment. Additionally, underlying infection
(especially viral, such as Epstein-Barr virus) is to be suspected
and treated appropriately.
Treatment
Goal(s):
· Support entire physiology, primarily adrenals. Eliminate
underlying infection, if there is one.
Primary
Treatment:
· Administer adrenal supportive herbs as appropriate for
the case (Glycyrrhiza and Panax feature prominently in most cases).
· Use warming digestive herbs such as Angelica archangelica,
Zingiber officinale (Ginger) and others.
· Use nervines as necessary, primarily restorative nervines
such as Avena sativa (Oats).
· Use Ginkgo biloba standardized to 24% flavor-glycosides,
120 mg daily for circulatory support.
· Use Astragalus membranaceus and the medicinal mushrooms
for immune modulation.
Supportive
Treatment:
· Rest is essential. Relaxing and warming baths can help
in this process.
· Recommend an easily digestible and highly nourishing diet
of whole grains and steamed vegetables, including meat broths and
stews if desired.
· Use essential fatty acids (Flax and Evening Primrose oils)
especially in cases of inflammation and chronic pain accompanying
the fatigue.
Differential
diagnoses, cautions, and other considerations:
· If there is insomnia, address this first to ensure the
physiology can get rest and recuperate. Using a tonic adaptogen
such as Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) coupled with Avena and
Valeriana officinalis (Valerian) for short periods can be helpful.
· If there is a history of glandular fever, mononucleosis,
candida, or other suspected long-term chronic pathogen, proceed
with an anti-infective protocol specific to the infection. If viral,
Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s Wort) can be particularly
helpful because it is warming, restorative and tonifying to the
nervous system as well as being a strong antiviral.
