by Dolores Moore

Created on: September 07, 2008   Last Updated: May 11, 2011

Because of the difficulties inherent in a condition with so many and varied symptoms, from headaches to food allergies, depression to backache, treatments should be approached with an open mind and a positive attitude. Beside conventional medicine, such as pain-killers and anti-depressants, there is a whole cornucopia of treatments available. They seek to address the condition holistically, looking to bring back a healthy balance of mental and physical well being. They include the following:

MASSAGE: This helps with pain, eases stress and reduces muscular tension, thus aiding overall relaxation.

YOGA: Because of the breathing techniques and gentle exercise involved in yoga, this helps to increase energy and reduce fatigue.

NATURAL MEDICINES (NATUROPATHY): This looks at detoxifying the body first, so special exclusion diets may be recommended. In particular, caffeine, alcohol, processed meats and foods will be taken out, while fruits, nuts, vegetables, whole grains and fresh fish will be added as the best dietary options. Practitioners may also suggest saunas to ease pain and cleanse the system, and cool showers, which are thought to help improve the immune system.

HERBAL REMEDIES: Herbs such as echinecea, wild indigo and goldenseal are known to improve immunity, and also to help detoxify. The adrenal system will be aided by using licorice and ginseng, while dandelion and milk thistle help liver function. St. John's Wort, my own favourite, is a natural anti-depressant and also is antibacterial. As always, consultation with a professional is a must, as just taking herbal remedies without professional advice can be dangerous. Other conditions such as pregnancy, high blood pressure or medical problems must always be taken into account.

ACUPUNCTURE: This goes alongside Chinese herbal medicines, where the causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) are believed to be disharmony, or mind and body imbalance. Both together are said to be most effective in helping ease the symptoms of CFS, as Traditional Chinese Medicine concentrates on alleviating symptoms.

NUTRITIONAL THERAPIES: Vitamins and minerals have been found to be effective in studies over the past several years. Vitamins from the B family, C, E and the minerals magnesium, selenium, zinc and copper may be advised. Good bacteria can be added to the digestive system by eating bio yogurt daily, and taking evening primrose and fish oils, which provide essential fatty acids.

RELAXATION, MEDITATION AND BREATHING: Simple exercises can be easily learned that will lower the anxiety and depression of sufferers. Proper diaphragmatic breathing also improves circulation and helps with the shallow-breathing that is often a symptom of CFS. These techniques offer major self-help factors.

COUNSELING AND COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR THERAPY: Both these will help, so long as a trained therapist is consulted. By focusing on causes, then working on ways to think and behave more positively, along with exercises and support, the lives of those suffering from CFS can be improved. These treatments will help the individual to evaluate their lives, take control and establish a better way forward.

You can see that these complementary or alternative treatment options actually slot in well with conventional medicine. As always, talk to the doctor before embarking on any course of alternative treatments. Your very good health is in your power to regain, so take advantage of all available help, remembering that with many of these, you can help yourself.

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