Adrenal burnout, also known as adrenal fatigue, is a relatively common health problem, especially among people in high-stress occupations. Adrenal burnout may be caused by numerous factors, including a medical condition known as Addison's disease, although chronic stress and certain lifestyle habits may also cause adrenal gland dysfunction. Herbal treatments have long been used to help restore the health and function of your adrenal glands. Talk with your health care provider about using herbs for your adrenal burnout.
Addison's Disease Information
Addison's disease, notes the National Health Service of the United Kingdom, is a rare disorder of your adrenal glands. Addison's disease impairs your adrenal glands' production of two significant hormones: aldosterone and cortisol. These hormones play an important role in determining your blood pressure. If Addison's disease is left unchecked, levels of steroid hormones in your body will decrease over time and Addison's disease-related symptoms -- blood pressure changes, fatigue, severe weakness -- will worsen over time.
Herbal Treatments
Many herbal remedies may be appropriate in treating your adrenal-related health problems, including adrenal burnout. Commonly used herbal treatments for this health purpose, states Phyllis A. Balch, a nutrition researcher and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," include several types of ginseng, milk thistle to improve liver, and therefore adrenal, function and herbs that possess calmative action, including valerian and kava kava. Ashwagandha and echinacea may also be helpful in treating this condition. The effectiveness of these herbs in treating adrenal burnout has not been extensively studied using contemporary scientific testing procedures.
A Powerful Herb
Ashwagandha is a powerful herbal remedy that has historically been used to nourish and support the health and function of your adrenal glands. Ashwagandha has long been used by practitioners of Ayurvedic medicine in India. Ashwagandha, notes naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," has hypotensive and adaptogenic action. An adaptogen is a substance that may improve your response to stress, fatigue and anxiety, which are all factors that may contribute to adrenal burnout. Talk to your physician before using ashwagandha to treat any medical condition.
Additional Information
Adrenal burnout may be caused by numerous factors. If you experience the characteristic symptoms of this health problem, schedule a visit with your family physician. Your doctor can assess your condition, order any pertinent tests and render treatment suggestions that may be beneficial in alleviating your health complaint. Ask your doctor about herbal remedies and how you might incorporate herbs into your adrenal burnout treatment plan. Always exercise great caution when using herbal remedies.
References
- National Health Service: Addison's Disease
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
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