Your adrenal glands are two small organs, about the size of a walnut, that sit atop your kidneys. The adrenals produce the adrenal hormones, including corticosteroids and adrenaline, which are activated in times of stress, excessive physical exertion and emotional upheaval. When stress is continuing, it can cause adrenal gland burnout, leading to symptoms of mood changes and physical exhaustion. There are dietary supplements that may be beneficial for stress-related symptoms of adrenal burnout, but always consult your doctor first before using any supplements.
Ashwaganda
Ashwaganda, or Withania somnifera, is a member of the pepper family and native to parts of India, Africa, the Middle East and the Mediterranean region. This small evergreen shrub is also called Indian ginseng, and the entire plant is used for medicinal purposes. Ashwaganda is used in adrenal burnout to treat fatigue associated with long periods of stress. Ashwaganda contains steroid-like substances that reduce the effects of stress. It also used as a calming herb due to its sedative-like properties. Don't use ashwaganda if you are pregnant, taking sedative medication or have kidney disease.
Skullcap
Skullcap, or Scutellaria lateriflora, belongs to the mint plant family. It grows in parts of North America and Europe, and its close relative Scutellaria baicalensis is found in parts of Asia. The root of the skullcap plant is used to make herbal remedies. According to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Herbal Healing," skullcap decreases production of the adrenal hormone ACTH, or adrenocorticotropic hormone, which is responsible for mounting your body's reaction to stress. Skullcap is used to ease nervous tension caused by adrenal burnout. You should only take skullcap under your physician's direct supervision.
Vitamin B-5
Vitamin B-5, also called pantothenic acid, functions together with other B vitamins in converting carbohydrates, protein and fats into glucose for energy. Vitamin B-5 is a constituent of coenzyme A, and it is needed to produce energy and steroid hormones by the adrenals. Levels of vitamin B-5 can become depleted as a result of adrenal burnout. The Linus Pauling Institute indicates that adults need 5 to 7 mcg of vitamin B-5 daily. It is found in some foods, including broccoli and whole grains, but it is also available in dietary supplements containing pantothenol, its more stable form.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, plays an important part in your body's response to stress. The adrenal glands secrete vitamin C in tandem with stress hormones as a means to regulate adrenal gland function. Since your body doesn't manufacture vitamin C, chronically high levels of stress can result in adrenal burnout, increasing your need for vitamin C. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, adults require 70 to 120 mg of vitamin C each day. Found naturally in citrus fruits and peppers, vitamin C can also be taken through dietary supplementation with ascorbic acid.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Endocrinology Health Guide: The Adrenal Glands; August 2010
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- AdvancedFamilyHealth.com; Adrenal Burnout Syndrome; Dr. Paul C. Eck and Dr. Larry Wilson; 1997
- Environmental Illness Resource: Treatment for Adrenal Fatigue/Adrenal Exhaustion
- Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University; Pantothenic Acid; Jane Higdon, Ph.D., et al.; April 2008
- Office of Dietary Supplements; Vitamin C; April 2010
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