Adrenal fatigue is a common health problem among Americans. Your adrenal glands sit atop your kidneys and produce numerous hormones that help regulate your body's functions. One of the most important hormones produced by your adrenal glands is cortisol. Adrenal fatigue is characterized by the blunted production of cortisol. Before using herbal remedies to boost your adrenal health and function, talk with your physician about the potential risks and benefits of herbs.
Adrenal Fatigue
Adrenal insufficiency, also known as Addison's disease, is a medical condition in which your adrenal glands fail to generate sufficient amounts of certain hormones. Adrenal fatigue is unique from adrenal insufficiency in that it is not considered an overt disease or condition. Excessive work and too much stress may tax your adrenal glands, causing adrenal fatigue. If you have adrenal fatigue, your adrenal glands may not produce enough cortisol -- a hormone that helps you manage the stress of everyday life.
Herbal Remedies
Some herbs are known for their ability to support the health and function of your adrenal glands. According to Ed Smith, herbal medicine expert and author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," Siberian ginseng, Asian ginseng and licorice are helpful herbs for boosting your adrenal function and treating your adrenal fatigue. Other helpful herbal remedies for treating your adrenal fatigue include ginkgo, oat and gotu kola. Herbs to improve adrenal gland health and function should not be taken if you are pregnant or have certain medical conditions such as Cushing's syndrome and Conn's syndrome.
A Commonly Used Herb
Borage is a commonly used herb in the treatment of adrenal fatigue. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, oil derived from the seeds of the borage plant contain alkaloids, fatty acids, mucilages, acids, tannins and saponins. Borage oil may help increase your adrenal strength or assist in adrenal recovery following adrenal exhaustion. Borage is a plant indigenous to Syria, although it now grows throughout the Mediterranean region and South America. Borage oil possesses anti-inflammatory action.
Precautions
Some herbal remedies may cause unwanted side effects if taken improperly. Before using herbal remedies, take the necessary precautions by visiting your doctor and gathering relevant information about herbs and herbal therapies. A qualified health care professional, especially one who specializes in herbal medicine, can provide you with an herb-based treatment plan that caters to your specific health needs. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or have other health problems before taking herbs for your adrenal fatigue or other conditions.
