Herbs - Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and can interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, take herbs only under the supervision of a health care provider. Unless otherwise indicated, you should make teas with 1 tsp. herb per cup of hot water. Steep covered 5 - 10 minutes for leaf or flowers, and 10 - 20 minutes for roots. Drink 2 - 4 cups per day. You may use tinctures alone or in combination as noted.

Herbs that may help with symptoms of chronic fatigue include:

Ginseng (Panax ginseng), to improve energy (100 - 300 mg two times per day).
Echinacea (Echinacea species), to stimulate the immune system (200 mg 2 times per day). Alternate with astragalus.

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), or huang qi, to stimulate the immune system (add 1 tsp. of the root to 1 cup boiling water, strain and cool. Drink 3 times per day). Alternate with echinacea.

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), is often recommended to stimulate the adrenal glands, though studies are lacking (200 - 400 mg 3 times per day for 6 - 8 weeks). Do not use licorice if you have high blood pressure, edema, or heart failure.

Pau d'arco (Tabebuia avellanedae), to strengthen the immune system (1 tsp. liquid extract in 1 cup water, 2 - 3 times per day). Do not take pau d'arco if you are taking blood-thinning medication, and limit intake to 1 - 2 weeks.

A tincture of Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), schizandra berry (Schizandra chinensis), ashwaganda root (Withania somnifera), gotu kola (Centella asiatica), and astragalus root (Astragalus membranaceus). Take 20 - 30 drops two to three times per day. These herbs may need to be taken for 4 - 6 months for maximum benefit.

Essential oils of jasmine, peppermint, and rosemary are calming and restorative and may be used in aromatherapy. Place several drops in a warm bath or atomizer, or on a cotton ball.