Natural health: Chronic fatigue syndrome and panic attacks

Chronic fatigue syndrome disrupts the functions of the bodily systems, in particular the nervous and immune systems, says Megan Sheppard.

Q. I have a close friend and colleague who has really struggled with chronic fatigue syndrome over the past six months. She has had the condition for years, but it seems to come and go for no apparent reason.

I remember reading about an African remedy that might help with this, but I can’t remember the name. Can you please help?

A. Chronic fatigue syndrome disrupts the functions of the bodily systems, in particular the nervous and immune systems.

While it may appear to come and go, it is always underlying and the symptoms can wax and wane depending on what else is going on.

Also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis or ME, the Epstein-Barr virus is thought to be responsible for many cases of chronic fatigue syndrome (along with glandular fever).

I suspect the African remedy you are referring to is Simba, from the Little Herbal Company. It is made from a tuber that is also known as African potato’ (Hypoxis Hemerocallidea).

This remedy has been used as a traditional medicine in Africa for many generations to treat a great range of conditions — everything from colds and flu through to skin disease.

The reason why it has been used more recently to treat chronic fatigue syndrome is because it is very effective in regulating the immune system.

African potato is what is known as an immune modulator. If your immune system needs boosting then it will serve to increase your immune activity.

Conversely, if you have an over-active immune system then it will reduce activity to normal levels.

This is why it is recommended in the treatment of autoimmune disorders such as chronic fatigue, multiple sclerosis, lupus, and asthma.

Simba utilises the entire plant rather than simply extracting or synthesising the active ingredients — in this case, the plant sterols and sterolins. It is available online from the Little Herbal Company (http://littleherbal-international.co.nz) where 90 capsules cost €35.

Your friend should take one capsule, three times a day on an empty stomach. It is essential that she take the capsules up to 30 minutes before or 2 hours after food in order to maximise the effectiveness.

It can take up to two months before significant change happens but is well worth the effort. Please note that Simba should not be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or by individuals who have recently undergone bone marrow or solid organ transplants.

Understanding personal limits is important. Many chronic fatigue sufferers tend to push themselves too hard when they have a brief window of feeling well, only to find their symptoms coming back with a vengeance.

Q. Following a recent shock, I am now experiencing ongoing panic attacks. They come seemingly out of nowhere and don’t always have an obvious trigger.

I struggle to get back to my old life, and often it is difficult just leaving the house. Any information would be greatly appreciated.

A. While your episodes of panic have a definable source event, it is common for this overwhelming sensation to occur without any specific cause.

They are quite different to a general issue of anxiety or stress and it is important that you get the help you need.

It makes sense for you to find a professional who can help individuals with anxiety-based disorders, as this is a situation that is beyond the scope of this Q&A format.

The right therapist will help you to work through your ongoing reaction to the shock you have experienced so that you can move forward at your own pace.

I recommend the online resources available at www.panic-attacks.co.uk, including a free course to help with panic attacks and/or panic disorder.

The course is very comprehensive and is divided into seven main parts — beginning with learning about panic attacks themselves and working through various techniques that may help.

Also available is a 70-minute ‘Panic Prevention Programme’ CD for purchase for working beyond the free course.

Do you have a question for Megan Sheppard?

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Feelgood, Irish Examiner, Linn Dubh, Assumption Road, Blackpool, Cork

NOTE: The information contained in this column is not a subsitute for medical advice. Always consult a doctor.