Natural Therapies for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Rebecca Lewis October 07, 2013

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating condition that causes persistent fatigue or exhaustion, and doesn’t go away with more sleep or rest. According to the NHS, around 250,000 people in UK suffer from CFS.

Severe fatigue, low grade fever, muscle and joint pain, poor sleep, mood swings, headache and inability to concentrate are just among the many symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. CFS is a serious condition that can lead to a long-term illness and disability when ignored. But the sad part is that there is no cure for CFS until today. Most treatments are only designed to reduce the symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life. Some patients take antidepressants, non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and anxiety medications to deal with their condition. But these drugs only cover the symptoms for a short period of time. What’s more, they have side effects.

Good thing, there are natural therapies that provide long-term solutions for CFS. They include the following:

Acupuncture

Several studies suggest that acupuncture may help reduce symptoms of CFS. In a study by the University of Hong Kong published in the journal Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, participants with CFS who received acupuncture treatment experienced a significant reduction in physical and mental fatigue, and improvement in their physical component scores. Acupuncture is also known to promote relaxation and sleep, which is very beneficial for people with CFS.

Chiropractic

Although there are no well-designed clinical trials that have looked into the benefits of chiropractic in CFS patients, chiropractors suggest that spinal manipulation may increase energy and reduce pain in some patients.

Massage

Massage is one of the most popular therapies recommended for people suffering from CFS. It has been proven beneficial and effective in reducing anxiety and restlessness, and promoting quality sleep in patients. It is also good for CFS sufferers who are not well enough to exercise because of its ability to promote blood circulation. Deep tissue massage is one of the most common types of massage used for people with CFS. This technique targets the muscle tissues located several layers below the skin surface.

Homeopathy

An experienced homeopath assesses the most suitable treatment approach for the patient by taking into the consideration his or her constitutional type, or the physical, emotional, and psychological makeup. Some homeopath remedies provided to CFS patients are Arsenicum (for restlessness and fatigue accompanied by burning pains and chills at night), Gelsemium (for mental exhaustion, including physical weakness and drowsiness), Pulsatilla (for mood swings and other emotional symptoms), and Sulphur (for patients experiencing fatigue symptoms but are usually not as emotionally sensitive as those requiring Pulsatilla).

Herbal Treatments

There are a variety of herbs that provide relief from some CFS symptoms. Ginseng is one of the most popular herbs that are used to fight chronic fatigue. A survey by the University of Iowa in the US revealed that ginseng was considered one of the more helpful treatments, with 56 per cent of people who used it rating it as ‘effective’. Other herbs, especially those with antiviral properties, have been shown to help reduce CFS symptoms as well. They include golden seal, liquorice and Echinacea.

Supplementation

A diet that is rich in magnesium, essential fatty acids such as those found in fish oil, NADH – a naturally occurring molecule formed from vitamin B3 (niacin), DHEA – a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands, Coenzyme Q10, L-Carnitine, beta-carotene, Vitamin D and Vitamin B12 have been found to bring beneficial effects for people with CFS. However, seeking professional advice is necessary before taking any of these supplements.

Positive Lifestyle

One’s lifestyle has a direct impact in the severity as well as the management of CFS. First off, patients should observe a healthy, well-balanced diet. Fruits and vegetables are rich sources of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that can improve CFS symptoms. Patients are also advised to stay physically active. Often, a GP would ask the patient to see a physical therapist for an exercise programme that is appropriate for his or her condition.

Stress reduction is also vital in the treatment of CFS. Counselling, meditation, yoga, hypnotherapy, support group therapy, and progressive muscle relaxation are among the stress management techniques that can greatly help people who have CFS, as well as those who want to reduce their risk of suffering from such condition.