posted
I started taking Eleuthero at the end of August to see if it would help with my fatigue.
I didn't take the Herb Pharm 2:1 tincture recommended by Buhner--I instead was taking a 1:1 alcohol-free tincture by Nature's Answer brand.
It definitely helped with the day time fatigue, weakness, shakiness that I was experiencing.
However after about two months, I started noticing that I was having more muscle spasms and pain than I had been experiencing previously (I wasn't taking a large dose--only about 15 drops per day in total).
In doing some on-line research, I found that Eleuthero can cause muscle spasms and nerve pain if taken for more than two months. Buhner doesn't mention this in his book, although he says that if you're taking the 2:1 tincture you should take a break for a couple of weeks after two months, since it might become less effective with long-term use.
Anyway, I stopped taking the Elethero about three weeks ago and the increased muscle pain and spasms went away almost immediately.
Since I'm still having fatigue issues (and most likely adrenal fatigue), I decided to try the Eleuthero again this week. First two days were okay, but I only took a few drops. I took about seven drops yesterday, and wouldn't you know it, I woke up at 4:00 a.m. this morning with the weird muscle pain and spasms again.
I haven't had any today, and the pain and spasms are gone.
Has anyone else had this experience? I'm so disappointed, because I did seem to be feeling better while taking it.
Any suggestions for alternatives? Note that I get bouts of low blood sugar, so I have to be careful about taking herbs that lower the blood sugar.
Posts: 227 | From Northeast | Registered: Mar 2010
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Keebler
Honored Contributor (25K+ posts)
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- What kind and how much magnesium are you taking?
Fish oil, too?
You may need different forms or a change of dose.
I've taken Siberian Ginseng in the past as a powder, separately, and did very well. I feel best, though, with a combination formula that is adjusted from time to time.
There are many other adrenal supports and a combination is usually best. Also, they should never be used a big boost but, as a dense food, work to strengthen the body through nutrients.
Still, most "adaptogens" (as adrenal herbs are often called) should help support endurance over time - but they can't be the winning ticket if there are underlying issues that have not been adequately addressed (infection, parasites, heavy metals, environmental toxicities, etc.).
I suggest Ashwagandha. Cordyceps is also good for many reasons.
Maybe Rhodiola - but it would be good to first read all about that as it can be a bit stimulating for some.
Do you have Wilson's book: "Adrenal Fatigue" ?
It is excellent and I'd say required for a better understanding. It's so very complex. -
Posts: 48021 | From Tree House | Registered: Jul 2007
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Keebler
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Thanks, Keebler. I take Mag-Tab SR's--three per day. I also use magnesium oil twice per day.
I don't take fish oil--I tried it a couple of times and it set my IBS off for days. I do use flaxseed to get my Omega 3's.
I do have the "Adrenal Fatigue" book--I should pull it out and look at it again.
Posts: 227 | From Northeast | Registered: Mar 2010
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Keebler
Honored Contributor (25K+ posts)
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- Yes, that book has good detail about other choices.
You may need between 1,000 and 2,000 mg of magnesium (in divided doses, always).
You might consider OmegaBrite. Just Google. Marnie sings its praises and she really does her homework so I trust her on that.
I'm not sure flax can offer us all we need - or at least, it should be rotated with other Omegas.
AVOID FLAX OIL? Burrascano's Guidelines instruct to avoid flax oil.
Sea Buckthorn Oil (berry & seed) has a wonderful fatty acid composition. This is a good source and the best price I've found. I use 8 ounces a month - but pour into a 2 oz. dropper bottle. -----------
- you might talk to them. Marnie says this is very different from typical fish oil and much better. -
Posts: 48021 | From Tree House | Registered: Jul 2007
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MannaMe
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 33330
posted
Dr. James Wilson has adrenal supplements that he formulated especially for people with adrenal fatigue.
My husband had very good results with using them. That was before he knew he has Lyme.
Posts: 2603 | From USA | Registered: Aug 2011
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Keebler
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