Yoga has been practiced for over 5000 years. Yoga is the union of body mind and spirit. The word yoga means "union". Through its exercises yoga seeks to bring these three parts into a more perfect union. These exercises result in a feeling of well being as well as improved posture, increased flexibility and an improvement of muscle tone. The mind becomes clear and it has been found that the calm that results can be a big help in controlling the pain associated with chronic fatigue syndrome. There have also been some lessening of the mental fatigue and lack of ability to focus and think clearly that are often symptoms of CFS.
Among the many symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a fogginess in the thinking process and difficulty in making decisions. The relaxation techniques that are a part of yoga are also helpful in alleviating these symptoms. Sleep can also be improved greatly through the use of yoga breathing exercises. It cannot be stressed firmly enough that yoga cannot and does not cure CFS however it does help to control some of the debilitating symptoms.
The ancient Chinese practice of acupuncture involves using tiny needles that are inserted into the body at specific points. Twelve spots on the body associated with all the "vital energy" that flows through the body have been identified by the Chinese. Acupuncture has been used to help control the pain that is part of CFS. Acupuncture has been shown to help improve muscle and joint pain, headaches, aching eyes and irritated bowel. Acupuncture is also not a cure for CFS but has been shown to be very effective in treating many of the symptoms.
Muscle pain is a large part of CFS and the use of Therapeutic Massage has had some excellent results in some patients. It helps with relaxation and lessening stress. Feelings of well being associated with a massage have been very helpful in the treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Herbal Treatments
There are several herbs that have been used with varying success in treating CFS. One of the favorites is ginseng. It helps to increase energy when taken in doses of 100-300mg. twice daily. Echinacea which is typically used to help prevent colds and to stimulate the immune system has also proven successful. The optimal dose is 200 mg twice daily. It can be found in a liquid form that is more effective at your local herbalist.Herbs may also be used in the form of essential oils. Peppermint, rosemary, and jasmine, when added to a warm bath, can help promote a feeling of relaxation which when done in the evening may be effective in helping with the sleep process.
Nutrition
Nutrition is a large part of the treatment of CFS. Stimulants such as alcohol and caffeine are best avoided as is processed foods. Eating more fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts and whole grains can help promote a healthy lifestyle. The part that allergies may play in CFS has not been fully defined, it may be best to avoid dairy and gluten products if there is any chance that you may have a sensitivity to one or both of themDietary supplements may be prescribed. Some of the most popular are magnesium, fish oil, evening primrose, beta-carotene, vitamin B12 and vitamin C. Many of these can help with the effects of fatigue but they should not be taken in high doses except under a health care provider's supervision.
Homeopath
Homeopathic therapies are appropriate for treating Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. The homeopath will consider all the factors before determining appropriate therapy. Some of the most common choices are pulsatilla to help provide calm, gelsemium when the patient is suffering from mental exhaustion, Arsenicum to help with fatigue and sulfur also for fatigue.CBD
Given how much CBD has been on the news it needs to be addressed as relates to the treatment of CFS. No research specific to chronic fatigue has been done to date so definitive proof does not exist. Claims about what it can do make it seem as if it might address some symptoms but claims are all that is available as of this date. It is not a cure-all by any means.
CFS is a very complex disorder that requires an aggressive treatment regime. There is no universal answer so it is wisest to try all options that may be available. Each case is different and what works for one patient may not work for another. Treatment needs to be designed to treat the individual symptoms of the sufferer. As with all alternative treatments for chronic fatigue syndrome, be sure to check with your physician before beginning any new treatments. To learn more about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome the CDC offers lots of information.
