7 Natural Remedies for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Updated: Sep. 01, 2021
Chronic fatigue syndrome goes beyond general tiredness and impacts your days, mood and energy. Here are the best natural options for treating this often misunderstood health condition.
Coenzyme Q10
People with chronic fatigue syndrome may not produce enough adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cells of the body. When levels of ATP drop too low, you feel bone-tired. Coenzyme Q10 helps your body produce more ATP. It’s also an antioxidant, so it may boost your immunity and help your muscle pain.
In one study of 155 people with chronic fatigue, this supplement increased their ability to exercise—a sign they had more energy. Sixty-nine percent of those who took the supplement also reported improvements in a host of other symptoms during the 6 months they took it.
Licorice extract
Some people with chronic fatigue syndrome tend to have abnormally low blood pressure. If you’re one of them, and your symptoms include mostly fatigue—not pain—this supplement may help with energy levels. The herb contains an anti-inflammatory compound that increases sodium levels in the blood, which usually leads to higher blood pressure.
Find out more surprising health benefits of licorice.
Siberian ginseng
Ginseng, considered a “tonic” herb, may help with your fatigue, especially if it’s mild. In one study, chronic fatigue syndrome patients with mild fatigue who took Siberian ginseng daily for 4 months reported less fatigue that improved faster than those who took a placebo. Those with severe fatigue, however, showed no improvement in fatigue, although they did report less depression.
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Ginkgo
This herb may improve concentration and alertness by boosting blood flow to the brain. Because it’s an antioxidant, it may also help protect muscles from oxidative damage that contributes to muscle pain in chronic fatigue syndrome.
Essential fatty acids
People with chronic fatigue tend to have low levels of essential fatty acids, which are important for reducing inflammation and boosting immunity. In one study, people who supplemented with essential fatty acids experienced fewer symptoms after eight to 12 weeks.
Find out 16 foods that can help fight inflammation.
Valerian
Taken an hour before bed, valerian helps you get a good night’s sleep. Find out more natural ways to fall asleep (without sleeping pills).
Melatonin
To help you sleep at night, take melatonin an hour before bed in lieu of or in addition to the valerian. Although there are no studies on its use for treating chronic fatigue syndrome, other research finds that this supplement can improve sleep-wake cycles and energy levels in shift workers and people suffering from jet lag.
Read up on more old-time home remedies that actually work.
