The adrenals are two small glands seated above each kidney. They produce the hormones adrenalin, noradrenalin and cortisol, which regulate your metabolism and immune system, and help your body respond to stress. Under extreme or long-term stress, an excess of these hormones can trigger adrenal exhaustion and chronic disease. Herbs may help relieve stress and restore proper functioning to the adrenals. Consult your health-care provider before starting herbal therapy.
Herbal Actions
Herbs for adrenal exhaustion work in various ways. Herbs called adaptogens may directly affect the adrenal glands, especially the adrenal cortex, which handles long-term stress responses. Other herbs, known as nervines, work on your nervous system to relieve stress and tension, providing support for exhausted adrenals and giving them time to rejuvenate. Herbs for the adrenals vary in potency, so talk to a qualified herbal specialist for advice about dosage, long-term use and preparation.
Rhodiola
Rhodiola, or Rhodiola rosea, is a tiny succulent native with a long history of medicinal use going back to ancient Roman times. The Vikings used the rhizomes, or underground stems, to enhance stamina and strength. Modern herbalists use this adaptogen to treat adrenal exhaustion, stress, fatigue, sexual disorders, infertility and neurological problems. In their 2009 book, "Medicinal Plants of the World," botanist Ben-Erik van Wyk and biologist Michael Wink say that rhodiola significantly improves physical strength and reduces fatigue, which can trigger and complicate adrenal exhaustion. Do not combine rhodiola with other sedatives or antidepressants.
Licorice
Licorice, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a perennial herb native to the Mediterranean. The rhizomes are rich in flavonoids and saponins, and herbalists use them to treat ulcers and other gastrointestinal problems. In his 2003 book, "Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine," clinical herbalist David Hoffmann states that licorice influences the stress-response function of the adrenal cortex. By affecting the interaction of the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland and the adrenals, all of which form a complex feedback system that regulates the body's long-term stress response, licorice may help relieve adrenal exhaustion. Licorice may lead to hypertension, so use only deglycyrrhizinated forms of the herb.
Skullcap
Skullcap, or Scutellaria lateriflora, is a small perennial found throughout the world. Traditional healers use the flavonoid-rich aerial parts to treat epilepsy, tension, anxiety and insomnia. Hoffmann recommends skullcap as a nervine tonic to support adaptogenic herbs in treating the adrenal glands. Nervines relieve stress and anxiety, and they can work synergistically to counter adrenal exhaustion, and Hoffmann recommends skullcap for any condition related to exhaustion or depression. Do not combine skullcap with other sedative or antidepressant drugs.
References
- "Medicinal Plants of the World"; Ben-Erik van Wyk and Michael Wink; 2009
- "Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine"; David Hoffmann; 2003
