New Age, Alternative,
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Herbs
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Herb
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Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) - This herb supports the function and structure of the adrenal glands. It contains chemical constituents that are molecularly similar to hormones from the adrenal cortex. Its short-term use can be helpful in periods of stress. Licorice should not be used for more than two continuous weeks, or by people with high blood pressure. Prolonged use can lead to high blood pressure, loss of minerals and water retention. Eleutho
or Siberian Ginseng (Eletherococcus
senticosus) - This herb is considered an
adaptogen and an energy tonic. It helps
the body adapt to stress by supporting and
nourishing the adrenal glands and the pancreas.
Fo-Ti
or Ho shou wu (Polygonum multiflorum)
- This herb supports the function and structure
of the kidneys, liver, blood, pancreas and
spleen. It has traditionally been used to
increase strength and energy. It also has
some components that support the connective
tissue. It is also considered a natural
antidepressant, and is helpful in lifting
the melancholy common in FMS and CFS.
Passionflower
(Passiflora incarnata) and Valerian
(Valeriana officinalis) - These herbs have
traditionally been used to relax the body
and improve sleep. They are non-narcotic,
non-habit forming and do not leave a morning
hangover. Alternate use to avoid the body
becoming habituated to one herb. This principle
seems generally useful in treatment of these
syndromes.
White
Willow Bark (Salix alba) and Kava
Kava (Piper methysticum) - These herbs
offer natural analgesic properties without
the side effects of conventional medicines.
Kava Kava is most effective in the liquid
form.
Milk
thistle (Silybum marianum) and Blessed
thistle (Cnicus benedictus) both support
the function and structure of the liver
and aid in digestion.
Supplements
that have been found to be helpful are Vitamin
B12 and magnesium. Both seem to aid in relaxation
and pain relief. Exercise is also an important
component in the recovery process. Mild,
gentle exercise such as walking, water aerobics,
stretching, and Yoga can relieve stiffness
and increase circulation.Remove yourself
from negative or stressful situations. Set
priorities, decide what you need to do and
what you can delegate. Learn to say “no”.
Instead of giving, giving, giving, learn
to receive. Learn to listen to your body.
It will tell you what it needs. Think positively
and live in the moment. Cultivate patience
with yourself and others. Seek spiritual
nourishment, and nurture supportive relationships.
Remember, recovery is a process and each
person's process is different.
Phyllis
Light is Director of Herbal Studies at Clayton
College of Natural Health and maintains
a private practice in Alabama. Contact her
at 205.540.4984 or email phyllisdlight@hotmail.com.
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