Adrenal gland deficiency, also known as Addison's disease, is a condition that develops when your adrenal glands produce inadequate amounts of their hormones. Your adrenal glands are located on top of your kidneys and, when functioning properly, produce hormones that control numerous physiological processes. Addison's disease is caused by damage to the outer portion, or cortex, of the adrenals. Discuss the appropriateness of herbal remedies with your doctor before using them to treat Addison's disease.
Adrenal Gland Deficiency
Primary adrenal gland insufficiency, or Addison's disease, affects your adrenals' production of two very important hormones: aldosterone and cortisol. These hormones play a significant role in regulating your blood pressure. Addison's disease is rare, according to the National Health Service of England. In fact, it affects only 14 individuals in every 100,000, notes the NHS. This condition can arise at any age, and it tends to develop in men and women equally.
Herbal Remedies
Addison's disease may respond to numerous herbal remedies, notes Phyllis A. Balch, a nutrition researcher, certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Ashwagandha, sometimes known as winter cherry, is often used to treat this condition, as is the herbal remedy astragalus. Various types of ginseng may be beneficial for this condition. Other helpful herbal remedies in treating Addison's disease include valerian, St. John's wort, echinacea and milk thistle extract.
A Commonly Used Herb
Ginseng -- especially Siberian ginseng -- may be helpful in treating primary adrenal gland deficiency. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center reports that Siberian ginseng is helpful in stimulating the immune system and boosting strength and stamina. Siberian ginseng, notes Balch, helps ready your body for stressful situations and is considered an adaptogen. A dose of 1 to 2 g per day may be helpful in treating Addison's disease, although you should always discuss proper dosage with your doctor before taking this herbal remedy.
Disclaimer
Adrenal gland deficiency can cause many symptoms, and there are many associated health problems -- including diabetes, chronic thyroiditis and pernicious anemia -- that can cause serious health complications. If you are suffering the symptoms of adrenal gland deficiency -- fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite -- schedule an appointment with your doctor at your earliest possible convenience. Do not use herbs to treat your condition before you have discussed potential side effects and other herb-related issues with your health care provider.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Addison's Disease
- National Health Service: Addison's Disease
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Siberian Ginseng
