Best Herbs for CFS/ME
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Herbal Treatment
Aug 10, 2009
These ten herbs may be useful in treating the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME). Not all of them have been scientifically tested in this use, but all have shown efficacy for some similar conditions.
While all of these herbs are very safe, the fact that they are "natural" does not mean they are completely free of side effects (even though this is usually the case). Tell your doctor and pharmacist of any herbs and supplements you are taking.
Astragalus
Astragalus membranaceus is a well-known adaptogenic plant which can have beneficial immunomodulatory properties in CFS/ME. Many doctors recommend it for this use. A recent study found astragalus beneficial in an "animal model of chronic fatigue syndrome".
Licorice
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) acts as an antibacterial and especially antiviral. It also has effects similar to cortisol and may thus be helpful in adrenal insufficiency. Licorice can soothe upset stomach and help prevent stomach ulcers as well as apthous ulcers (mouth sores).
Ginseng
Ginseng (Panax ginseng/Panax quinquefolium) is an adaptogen. In larger doses it has stimulant and nootropic (cognition enhancing) effects and may improve libido. In one study ginseng was found to improve immune function in patients with CFS/ME and AIDS. Ginseng has also shown efficacy in prevention of influenza.
Large doses of ginseng may cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). High blood pressure is another possible side effect, though many people with CFS/ME would find it beneficial instead of problematic.
Siberian Ginseng
Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is commonly known as Siberian ginseng, even though it has nothing to do with actual ginseng. This adaptogenic herb is not a stimulant like ginseng, but instead may improve sleep. More importantly, it is remarkably effective in preventing colds and flus.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), also known as Indian ginseng, is an important herb in Ayurvedic medicine. It is adaptogegenic, nootropic and anti-inflammatory. Ashwagandha is often recommended for adrenal insufficiency and hypothyroidism. The name "somnifera" means sleep-inducing and many people find ashwagandha helpful for improving sleep, even though it is not particularly sedative as such.
Rhodiola
Known as rose root, golden root and arctic root, Rhodiola rosea is one of the most important adaptogenic herbs with plenty of research to support its efficacy. Besides boosting the immune system, rhodiola can relieve fatigue while improving cognition and endurance. Often one dose is enough to notice improvement. Some products are low quality, and dried root and the standardized extract SHR-5 are the best options.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba has been used in the treatment of cognitive problems for thousands of years and many people with CFS/ME find it helpful in treating "brainfog". It works by improving circulation in the brain and possibly through its antioxidant action. Some people notice the effects right away, others may have to take ginkgo for several weeks before noticing improvement.
Olive Leaf
Olive leaf extract (Olea europaea) has powerful antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. It has been used in the treatment of e.g. HIV infection and multiple sclerosis. Usually for CFS/ME large doses are recommended, which can be expensive. Olive leaf extract may cause hypotension (low blood pressure), but usually this is not a problem.
Oil of Oregano
Oil of oregano (Origanum vulgare) has powerful antibacterial properties and may also be an antifungal. It is not known whether it could help the chronic bacterial infections that sometimes underlie CFS/ME, but many have found it helpful for recurrent bacterial infections (e.g. sinusitis). Oil of oregano can be used both internally and externally, but should always be diluted.
Cat's Claw
Cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa), also sold as as Samento, is an immunostimulant with antibacterial and antiviral action. It reduces the secretion of some inflammatory cytokines, which may be beneficial in CFS/ME. Cat's claw may also have nootropic action and thus reduce brainfog.
References
Kuo YH, Tsai WJ, Loke SH, et al. Astragalus membranaceus flavonoids (AMF) ameliorate chronic fatigue syndrome induced by food intake restriction plus forced swimming. J Ethnopharmacol. 2009 Feb 25;122(1):28-34.
See DM, Broumand N, Sahl L, et al. In vitro effects of echinacea and ginseng on natural killer and antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity in healthy subjects and chronic fatigue syndrome or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patients. Immunopharmacology. 1997 Jan;35(3):229-35.
Roxas M, Jurenka J. Colds and influenza: a review of diagnosis and conventional, botanical, and nutritional considerations. Altern Med Rev. 2007 Mar;12(1):25-48.
