Are You Suffering From Low Energy or Fatigue?


Herbs for Energy
Are you tired of being tired and wondering where your vitality went?  If you suffer from fatigue and want to get your life back it is important to understand the different types of herbs that may be used to increase energy.  To begin we need to discuss the various patterns of fatigue that occur. 
 
Fatigue with Digestive Problems
In this pattern fatigue occurs with various digestive symptoms and results from weaknesses in the body's ability to process and assimilate food.  The most common symptoms of this pattern include:
  • Low Energy
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Bloating and Tiredness After Meals
  • Frequent Diarrhea or Loose Stool
  • Weak Muscles
  • Water Retention
Herbs for this pattern of fatigue include Ginseng, White Atractylodis, Poria, and Licorice.  A high quality herbal remedy for this pattern of fatigue is called Ginseng Classic. 

Fatigue with Respiratory and/or Immune Symptoms
Another common pattern of fatigue can occur when the functions of the lungs are compromised.  Since the air we breathe plays a major role in ensuring that the body can extract energy from the food we eat, inadequate oxygen levels can contribute to low energy.  Therefore, when there is a problem with the respiratory system it can greatly affect our overall energy levels.  In patterns of fatigue that are connected to an imbalance in the respiratory system common symptoms are:
  • Asthma
  • Shortness of Breath
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Sinus Congestion
  • Runny Nose
  • Frequently Catching the Cold
  • Low Immune Function
My favorite herbs to use for this pattern of fatigue include Astragalus and Cordyceps.  For a high quality product from Planetary Formulas click Cordyceps Power.

Fatigue with Insomnia
When one has a difficult time sleeping this will frequently result in fatigue throughout the day.  Typically this pattern of fatigue with insomnia also occurs with other conditions that are related to one's state of mind.  High stress life-styles and chronic worrying are also components of this pattern.  The main symptoms of this pattern are:
  • High Stress Levels
  • Insomnia
  • Excessive Worrying
  • Anxiety
  • Dizziness
To increase energy levels with this pattern requires a skillful blend of herbs that will increase the energy in the day, combat stress levels, and help to induce better sleep patterns at night. To increase energy I like to use Ginseng, Licorice, and Red Jujube. To calm the mind and promote sleep Valerian, Hops, Passion Flower, Skullcap, and Chamomile are used.  Click the link to purchase the formula Valerian Easy Sleep. 

Fatigue with Adrenal Weakness
The final pattern of fatigue we will discuss is related to the adrenal glands and is very common in cases of chronic fatigue.  This pattern typically results from those that have long histories of overworking and high stress life-styles.  Chronic long-term consumption of coffee with a poor diet can also be contributing factors. There are also some people that will manifest this pattern as a result of genetic patterns that predispose them to low levels of hormones.  Symptoms of this pattern include:
  • Chronic Fatigue or fatigue that has lasted for longer than 6 months
  • Feeling "Burned Out"
  • Lack of Interest, Motivation, and Drive
  • Extremely Low Levels of Energy
  • Premature Aging
  • Low Sex Drive
  • Decreased Physical Functioning
This pattern requires using many herbs in combination to account for all the physiological needs that are present.  Herbs I often use include Ginseng, Rehmania, Wild Yam, Cornus, Eucommia Bark, Morinda, Licorice, and Cinnamon.  This formula pay be purchased by clicking Rehmania Vitalizer.

The four examples described above are the most common patterns of fatigue although there are also other possibilities.  Some people may have 2 or more of the patterns presented above, or have other disease conditions that contribute to the condition.  In complex cases it is important to have a consultation with an experienced health care provider.

For more information about how herbs may be used to treat fatigue and increase energy feel free to contact me.

In Health,
Jim Spears M.S.