Adrenal fatigue results from chronic imbalances of stress that deplete the reserves of the adrenal glands. This disorder affects approximately 80% of the United States population! Common symptoms are inexplicable tiredness, difficulty waking up in the morning, feeling rundown or overwhelmed, having difficulty bouncing back from stress or illness, and feeling more energetic in the evenings.
Last week, we covered these symptoms and conventional laboratory tests to find the cause of the fatigue. However, below are a few natural remedies that may help.
Natural Treatment
Herbs that help the adrenal glands are known as adaptogens, because they combat negative results of stress and stimulate resistance. There are three different classes of adaptogen: Primary, Secondary, and Adaptogen Companions. Primary adaptogens normalize and strengthen body functions and improve energy production, thus enhancing resistance to stress. Secondary adaptogens are complemented by the primary adaptogens and also help normalize stress effects. Adaptogen companions work with and enhance primary and secondary adaptogens.
Primary adaptogens are mostly found in the various roots in the Ginseng family. Eleuthero Ginseng is known as the king of adaptogens because of its powerful effects. Others include Indian Ginseng, American Ginseng, and Asian Ginseng. These can be made into teas or bought in the form of tablets. Other plants with primary adaptogens are the Maral Root, the Rhodiola Rosea, and Schisandra: the ultimate superberry.
Secondary adaptogens are plants like the Waterhyssop, wild oats, and the Chinese Fleeceflower root.
Adaptogen companions are found in many berries like the Barbados Cherry (Acerola), the Indian Gooseberry, the Bilberry, and the Elderberry. Ginger and Turmeric are also Adaptogen Companions. These can be used to season meals while at the same time giving the adrenal glands a boost. As a result, you’ll feel the boost in your day-to-day activities, too!
There are many stressors that contribute to adrenal fatigue, such as emotional issues, poor sleeping habits, toxic overload, and abuse and overuse of technology. However, adaptogens have extensive ability to improve and repair the human body’s reaction to stress resulting in increased disposition, vitality, strength and health. May the Lord bless your pathway to health.
As always, personalized treatment should be based on extensive history, physical symptoms, and clinical test results. The following suggestions should not replace medical recommendations by a licensed practitioner. Prior to any supplementation program, discuss doing a liver detox with your physician. Pregnant women should also consult their doctor before implementing treatments.